Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Satisfaction
- Type: Tug
- Year Built: 1871
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: North of Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
- Type: Wooden steam tug, built in 1871
- Role: Designed to tow schooner-barges on the Great Lakes
Description
The tug Satisfaction, built in 1871, was primarily used for towing schooner-barges on the Great Lakes. It was a wooden steam tug that played a significant role in maritime operations during its service.
History
The tug Satisfaction was involved in various towing operations throughout its service life. On June 25, 1899, while towing the schooner-barge Tracy J. Bronson north of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, the tug caught fire.
Significant Incidents
- Date & Route: While towing the schooner-barge Tracy J. Bronson north of Sheboygan, Wisconsin.
- Cargo for Companion: The Bronson was en route to East Jordan, Michigan, to receive lumber.
- Incident: Around 12 PM, flames broke out—likely near the pilothouse or boiler—spreading quickly.
- Crew Response: The crew evacuated safely in the tug’s yawl; some sheltered aboard the Bronson.
- Rescue Efforts:
- Goodrich Line steamer Georgia attempted intervention, but its boiler exploded.
- Steamer Olympia then tried to tow the still-burning tug, which sank during tow.
- Tug Sheboygan later secured the Bronson.
- All tug crew reached shore safely in Sheboygan.
Final Disposition
The tug Satisfaction sank after the fire, despite several salvage attempts by other vessels. Fortunately, all crew members evacuated safely, and no casualties were reported.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the wreck is not documented in the available sources. Further exploration may be needed to assess the site.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”satisfaction-1871″ title=”References & Links”]
The wreck of the Satisfaction serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by maritime vessels in the late 19th century. Ongoing research may uncover more details about its history and the circumstances surrounding its loss.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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