The J.C. Ames in its Nau Tug Line configuration. It was one of the most powerful tugboats of its time. (Photo: Wisconsin Historical Society via news release)
Built in 1881 by the Rand & Burger company and originally named J.C. Perrett, the tugboat was one of the most powerful vessels on the Great Lakes, boasting a 670-horsepower engine. Designed to haul lumber and railway barges, it could tow as many as five barges of timber simultaneously.
After decades of service, the vessel was retired from active duty and stripped of its valuable machinery. In 1923, it was intentionally burned and scuttled in shallow water near Manitowoc’s south pier, a common practice at the time for disposing of obsolete wooden-hulled vessels. The location allowed local authorities to ensure the ship would not drift, and the burning helped reduce salvage hazards while minimising costs associated with dismantling.
The Ames burned to the waterline and sank into 9ft (~3m) of water, where it was further dismantled by wind, waves and ice until it was buried underneath the sand and forgotten. The tug rested undisturbed until winter storms revealed its wooden hull and iron fittings, with minimal quagga mussel infestation—a sign of recent exposure.
Identification
Tamara Thomsen, a maritime archaeologist at the Wisconsin Historical Society, and Brendon Baillod of the Wisconsin Underwater Archaeology Association confirmed the wreck’s identity. Their research used sonar images, historical records and diver investigations.
Significance for heritage and tourism
As the wreck lies within the protected boundaries of the Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary, it is now being considered for inclusion on the State Register of Historic Places and potentially the National Register of Historic Places. Its shallow location may make it accessible for snorkelling and diving, but the removal or disturbance of any artefacts remains strictly prohibited.
