Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: TOM DOWLING
- Type: Wooden propeller steam tug
- Year Built: 1873
- Builder: Stevens & Presley
- Dimensions: Length: 67 ft (20.4 m); Beam: 13 ft (4 m); Depth of hold: 5 ft (1.5 m)
- Registered Tonnage: Gross Tonnage: 37 tons; Net Tonnage: 18 tons
- Location: Ashland, Wisconsin
- Official Number: 24988
- Original Owners: Albert Coal
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Type: Wooden propeller steam tug
Description
The TOM DOWLING was a wooden steam-powered tugboat constructed in 1873 by Stevens & Presley in Cleveland, Ohio. Designed for towing and assisting larger vessels, she measured 67 feet in length with a beam of 13 feet and a depth of 5 feet. With a gross tonnage of 37 tons, the tug played a vital role in the operations of the Great Lakes’ maritime industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
History
Throughout her service life, the TOM DOWLING was instrumental in various towing operations across the Great Lakes. In the year leading up to her demise, she experienced a series of unfortunate incidents, including two major accidents that significantly impacted her operational capabilities. Despite these challenges, she continued to serve under the ownership of Albert Coal.
On August 17, 1908, while docked at Ashland, Wisconsin, the TOM DOWLING caught fire. The blaze quickly intensified, engulfing the vessel. Three local firemen boarded the tug in an attempt to extinguish the flames. During their efforts, the vessel suddenly capsized and sank, nearly drowning the firemen who were subsequently rescued. This incident marked the third major accident for the TOM DOWLING within a year. There are indications that the vessel may have been recovered after the incident, but detailed records of her fate post-recovery are scarce.
Significant Incidents
- August 17, 1908: Caught fire while docked at Ashland, Wisconsin, leading to capsizing and sinking.
Final Disposition
The TOM DOWLING met her end due to a catastrophic fire on August 17, 1908, at Ashland, Wisconsin, on Lake Superior. The fire led to her capsizing and sinking. While there is some evidence suggesting she may have been salvaged, the subsequent history of the vessel remains unclear.
Current Condition & Accessibility
There are no records indicating that the wreck of the TOM DOWLING has been located or surveyed to date.
No navigational warnings or advisories related to the TOM DOWLING wreck site are currently noted.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”tom-dowling-us-24988″ title=”References & Links”]
The TOM DOWLING’s service history reflects the challenges faced by steam tugs operating in the Great Lakes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Despite multiple accidents, the vessel remained a steadfast component of maritime operations until her unfortunate demise in 1908.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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