Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: C.F. Coughlin
- Type: Steam Screw Vessel
- Year Built: 1895
- Builder: Buffalo, New York
- Dimensions: Length: 59.4 ft (18.1 m); Beam: 17.3 ft (5.3 m); Depth of hold: 6.9 ft (2.1 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 42.39 tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 2.1 m / 6.9 ft
- Location: Buffalo, New York
- Official Number: 120993
- Original Owners: Conlon Canal Line, various owners
- Number of Masts: Not specified
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The C.F. Coughlin is classified as a steam screw vessel, specifically designed for towing operations in the Great Lakes.
Description
The vessel was a small steam screw towboat designed for assisting larger vessels and transporting goods. Initially named FRANK J. BAPST, it operated out of Buffalo, New York, serving in the busy shipping lanes of the Great Lakes. Its small size and maneuverability made it well-suited for tow service.
History
Initial Service (1895): Built and launched in Buffalo, New York, the vessel operated as FRANK J. BAPST, registered under a gross tonnage of 42.39 tons. It primarily engaged in towing operations, facilitating commerce and transportation in the Great Lakes region.
First Name Change to SQUAW (By 1915): Renamed SQUAW as recorded in the Merchant Vessel List of 1915. It continued in tow service, operating with specifications largely unchanged and was known for efficient maneuvering and reliable service.
Final Name Change to C.F. COUGHLIN (By 1925): Renamed C.F. COUGHLIN, as per the Merchant Vessel List of 1925. Owned by the Conlon Canal Line, it remained in tow service, assisting with transportation needs in the Great Lakes region.
Significant Incidents
- Operated under various names: FRANK J. BAPST, SQUAW, and C.F. COUGHLIN.
- Engaged in towing operations throughout its service life.
Final Disposition
The vessel served as a towboat throughout its operational life, likely playing a role in assisting larger vessels navigating narrow waterways and canals. It was owned by several entities, reflecting the versatility and long-lasting utility of such vessels in the maritime trade of the Great Lakes.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the C.F. Coughlin is not specified, but it is confirmed as a historical vessel.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”c-f-coughlin-us-120993-frank-j-bapst-squaw” title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The vessel known by multiple names—FRANK J. BAPST, SQUAW, and C.F. COUGHLIN—represents a key part of the working fleet on the Great Lakes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its long service life, multiple ownerships, and steady tow operations reflect the robust design and importance of steam screw vessels in supporting commerce and navigation in the region.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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