Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Hunter Wills
- Type: Wooden propeller steam tug
- Year Built: 1878
- Builder: J. Monk, Sandusky, Ohio
- Dimensions: 89 ft × 19 ft × 8 ft; 84 gross tons, 44 net tons
- Registered Tonnage: 84 gross tons, 44 net tons
- Location: Erie, Pennsylvania harbor
- Official Number: 140288
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Wooden propeller steam tug, originally launched as the passenger steamer Louise, later renamed Hunter Wills (also referred to as Hunter Willis).
Description
The Hunter Wills was a wooden propeller steam tug built in 1878. It measured 89 feet in length, 19 feet in beam, and had a depth of 8 feet. The vessel had a registered tonnage of 84 gross tons and 44 net tons.
History
Originally launched as the passenger steamer Louise, the vessel was renamed Hunter Wills in 1931, shortly before its destruction by fire. The tug reflects the vulnerabilities of aging wooden vessels, particularly when moored in harbor.
Significant Incidents
- The Hunter Wills was destroyed by fire while docked in Erie harbor on October 22, 1931.
- No injuries or fatalities were reported in the incident.
Final Disposition
The fire completely destroyed the wooden hull and superstructure, resulting in a total loss. Given the era and condition, it was not salvaged and was subsequently written off.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As the vessel was completely destroyed by fire, no remains are present to assess current conditions or accessibility.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”hunter-wills-louise-us-140288″ title=”References & Links”]
The loss of the Hunter Wills serves as a reminder of the risks faced by wooden vessels, particularly in harbor settings, and highlights the importance of fire safety measures for maritime operations.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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