Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Waukegan (formerly Commodore)
- Type: Wooden propeller-driven passenger & package freight vessel
- Year Built: 1919
- Builder: Sturgeon Bay Dry Dock, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
- Dimensions: 143 ft (43.6 m); Beam: 30 ft (9.1 m); Depth of hold: 17 ft (5.2 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 763 tons
- Location: Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
- Official Number: 222863
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Type: Wooden propeller-driven passenger & package freight vessel
Description
The Waukegan, originally built as the tug Commodore, was converted in 1920 to serve as a passenger and package freight vessel. This transformation allowed her to accommodate passengers and cargo, facilitating trade on Lake Michigan.
History
Built as a U.S. Government Tug (1919-1920)
The vessel was constructed in 1919 for U.S. government service at Sturgeon Bay Dry Dock. She had a sister ship, the Kenosha, built for similar duties.
Converted for Passenger & Freight Service (1920)
In 1920, the Commodore was refitted and renamed Waukegan, allowing her to transport passengers, mail, and small freight cargo between ports on Lake Michigan.
Service Role on Lake Michigan
The Waukegan played a significant role in connecting rural communities to larger commercial centers like Chicago, Milwaukee, and Green Bay.
Significant Incidents
Final Loss and Destruction by Fire
- Date of Loss: December 5, 1935
- Location: Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin (winter dock)
- Cause: Fire
- Cargo at Loss: None (laid up for winter)
- Loss of Life: None
On December 5, 1935, while moored at her winter dock, the Waukegan caught fire, leading to the destruction of multiple vessels at the dock, including her sister ship Kenosha, Lucia A. Simpson, Petoskey, and Swift. The fire resulted in a total loss for all five vessels.
Final Disposition
The Waukegan was completely destroyed by fire, and no structural remains are expected to be found. Any metal components may have been salvaged or remain buried at the dock site.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The dock area may contain debris from the multiple vessels lost in the fire. Underwater archaeology or sonar scans could identify wreck remnants or artifacts in Sturgeon Bay.
Resources & Links
References are being reviewed for this wreck.
The Waukegan had a unique history, starting as a U.S. government tug before being converted into a passenger and freight steamer. Though no physical remains are expected, her loss is a notable chapter in Great Lakes maritime history.