Boss US 3197

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Tug Boss
• Type: Tugboat
• Year Built: 1881
• Builder: Saugatuck, Michigan
• Dimensions: Length ~45 ft (13.72 m); Beam ~3.5 ft; Depth of hold ~5 ft
• Registered Tonnage: 19.7 tons
• Depth at Wreck Site: 6 m / 20 ft
• Location: 4 miles south of Two Rivers, Wisconsin
• Official Number: 3197
• Original Owners: Allie & Lafond

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Tug Boss was a wooden tugboat built in 1881, primarily used for harbor operations.

Description

The tug Boss was approximately 45 feet long, with a beam of about 3.5 feet and a hold depth of around 5 feet. It had a gross tonnage of approximately 19.7 tons.

History

Boss was built in Saugatuck, Michigan, and operated out of Two Rivers, Wisconsin. It was owned by Allie & Lafond.

Significant Incidents

• Securely moored at Two Rivers, the tug disappeared during a snowstorm overnight on January 16, 1885. It was later assumed to have drifted and sunk, possibly iced over.
• There were rumors that the tug might have been stolen, but no trace was found.
• In May 1887, wreckers located the tug submerged four miles south of Two Rivers in about 20 feet of water. Plans were made to raise her.
• No casualties were reported.

Final Disposition

Discovered in May 1887, the tug was found lying submerged in shallow water. Operations to raise her were planned, but there is no record of recovery or wreck removal afterward.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the tug Boss is located at a depth of approximately 20 feet. The current condition of the wreck is not documented, and accessibility may vary.

Resources & Links

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The tug Boss serves as a reminder of the maritime history of the Great Lakes, illustrating the challenges faced by vessels in harsh weather conditions and the complexities of tracking historical records.