Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Walter R. Pringle
- Type: Wooden propeller steam tug
- Year Built: 1890
- Builder: Cleveland Dry Dock Co., Cleveland, OH
- Dimensions: 98 × 30 × 10 ft; 251 gross tons, 167 net tons
- Registered Tonnage: 251 gross tons, 167 net tons
- Location: Stag Island, St. Clair River
- Official Number: 116357
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Identity & Background
- Official Number: 116357
- Type: Wooden propeller steam tug
- Built: 1890 by Cleveland Dry Dock Co., Cleveland, OH (launched as Superior, renamed Walter R. Pringle in 1917 following conversion from ferry to tug)
- Specifications: 98 × 30 × 10 ft; 251 gross tons, 167 net tons
Description
Description
The Walter R. Pringle was a wooden steam tug originally built as a ferry and later converted for tug service. It was known for its sturdy construction and operational capabilities on the Great Lakes.
History
History
The vessel was launched in 1890 and underwent a significant conversion in 1917, changing its name from Superior to Walter R. Pringle. It served in various capacities until its loss in 1922.
Significant Incidents
Significant Incidents
- May 6, 1922: Caught fire while underway on the St. Clair River.
- Intentionally beached on Stag Island to prevent sinking.
- Burned completely to the waterline, losing superstructure and machinery.
- No recorded casualties, presumed none.
Final Disposition
Final Disposition
The Walter R. Pringle was beached on Stag Island after the fire, where it burned to the waterline. The vessel was lost, and no recovery efforts were documented.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the wreck is unknown, and there may be opportunities for dive surveys to assess any remaining structure or artifacts at the site.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”walter-r-pringle-us-116357″ title=”References & Links”]
Summary
The Walter R. Pringle (Official No. 116357) was a converted wooden steam tug built in 1890 and renamed in 1917. On May 6, 1922, she caught fire on the St. Clair River. The crew beached her on Stag Island where she burned to the waterline, avoiding a dangerous sinking mid-channel. No human casualties are recorded.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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