Story
This tug was built in 1952 by Nichols Boat Works, Hood River OR.
Historical Notes
George Schneider (May 2026) Writes: Her design, with the sloping house, was adopted by Wilbur Smith so the bridge could see the deckhands and whether he was putting them in jeopardy. As a Brusco tug she has caused some confusion because the name on her stern shows only as "Mike Brusco."
Owners & Masters
In 1952-1977 she was owned by Wilbur J. Smith Tug & Barge, USA.
In 1981-1989 she was owned by United States National Bank of Portland OR USA. During that time she was operated by Knappton Towboat Co. of Astoria OR (1981-1988) and by the Brix Maritime Co. of Seattle WA.
In 1991-2026 she was owned by Brusco Tug & Barge Inc. of Longview WA USA.
Repower
As of 2026 she shows as having 1050 total HP, so probably has been re-engined.
References
(New:) Pacific Work Boat Magazine, December 1953, page 15. Merchant Vessels of the United States (1954-1989) Merchant Vessels of the United States Annual digital data files, 1992-2026, cgmix.uscg.mil ↗ (Accessed 10 May 2026)
