Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Tiger
- Type: Dredge scow
- Year Built: 1918
- Builder: Kingston, NY
- Dimensions: 80 x 26 x 5 ft (24.4 x 7.9 x 1.5 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 102 gross tons
- Location: Off Lakeside, Michigan
- Official Number: 166685
- Original Owners: Steven A. Boston, Detroit
- Number of Masts: None
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Tiger was a steel dredge scow built in 1918 at Kingston, New York. A dredge scow is a type of barge used in dredging operations, specifically for transporting dredged material. With its steel construction, the vessel was robust and suitable for heavy work in maritime construction or harbor maintenance.
Description
The Tiger had the specifications of 80 feet (24.4 meters) in length, 26 feet (7.9 meters) in width, and 5 feet (1.5 meters) in depth, and had a gross tonnage of 102 tons. While scows like the Tiger were typically unpowered, they would be towed by other vessels or used for transporting material in shallow waters, primarily in dredging operations.
History
On July 26, 1929, the dredge scow Tiger caught fire while off the shore of Lakeside, Michigan, on Lake Michigan. The fire led to the vessel’s total loss, and it eventually sank due to the damage caused by the blaze. There were no reports of loss of life, but specifics regarding casualties have not been confirmed. The Tiger was owned by Steven A. Boston of Detroit at the time of its loss.
There is some ambiguity regarding its construction date as records also show a 1915 construction in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with slightly different specifications of 80 x 26 x 5 feet and 102 gross tons.
Significant Incidents
- July 26, 1929: Caught fire off Lakeside, Michigan, leading to total loss and sinking.
Final Disposition
The Tiger was lost to a fire on July 26, 1929, off Lakeside, Michigan on Lake Michigan. Despite being an industrial vessel, the Tiger suffered significant damage from the blaze, ultimately leading to its sinking. The specifics surrounding the cause of the fire and loss of life are unclear, but the vessel was owned by Steven A. Boston of Detroit at the time.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Mariners in the Lakeside area of Lake Michigan should remain cautious of any remaining wreckage or debris from the Tiger or similar sunken vessels. Regular inspections for fire hazards are recommended for vessels involved in dredging operations.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”tiger-us-166685″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
This wreck serves as a reminder of the dangers that even industrial and work vessels face on the Great Lakes, where fire and other hazards can lead to sudden and tragic losses.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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