Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: North Carolina
- Type: Propeller-driven Diesel Tug
- Year Built: 1908
- Builder: J.S. Dunham, Chicago, Illinois
- Dimensions: Length: 81 ft (24.69 m); Beam: 20 ft (6.1 m); Depth of hold: 12 ft (3.66 m)
- Registered Tonnage: Gross: 98 tons; Net: 66 tons
- Location:
- Original Owners: Great Lakes Towing Company
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Type: Propeller-driven Diesel Tug (Harbor tug).
Description
The North Carolina was initially built as the L.C. Sabin in 1908. It served primarily as a harbor tug, crucial for docking and undocking ships, moving barges, and assisting larger vessels in busy waterways.
History
The North Carolina was renamed in 1941 by the Great Lakes Towing Company when incorporated into their fleet. The vessel was diesel-powered, providing efficient service compared to earlier steam-powered tugs. It played a significant role in facilitating cargo movements and port operations, particularly in Cleveland, Ohio, and other Great Lakes harbors.
Significant Incidents
- 1941: Renamed North Carolina by the Great Lakes Towing Company.
Final Disposition
The fate of the North Carolina remains undocumented. Many tugs of this era were eventually retired, scrapped, or abandoned as technology advanced. Further archival searches could uncover specific details of its final years.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the North Carolina is unknown, as there are no documented records of its final disposition.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”north-carolina-l-c-sabin” title=”References & Links”]
The North Carolina exemplifies the essential role of harbor tugs in the Great Lakes maritime economy. Its long service life with the Great Lakes Towing Company reflects the resilience and adaptability of these vessels, marking its legacy in Great Lakes shipping history.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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