Story
This minelayer (auxiliary) was built in 1942 by Marietta Manufacturing Co. in Point Pleasant, WV.
Historical Notes
George Schneider (Feb 2026) writes: Original name is seen misspelled in print as SPURGEON, but the name as used here was visible on her hull. While idle in 1986 I was told her new name was VIRGINIA KATHERINE, but that was never recorded on any documents.
In 2002-2013 this vessel was employed as a floating breakwater at Tacoma WA USA.
In 2013 this vessel was reported to have been broken up by Stabbart Marine, Seattle WA.
Owners & Masters
In 1942-1950 she was owned by the United States Army Coast Artillery Corps, Mine Planter Service.
In 1950-1960 she was owned by the United States Navy.
In 1961 she was sold for scrap to Herbert P. Sturdivant and Edward Madruga, San Diego, CA USA. The vessel was not scrapped, but sold in 1963 to Edward Madruga/Manuel Cintas.
In 1972 she was owned by Pan Pacific Fisheries Inc, San Juan PR USA.
In 1976-1981she was owned by CHB Foods Inc., San Diego CA USA.
In 1989 she was owned by Arctic Vessel Management Inc., Seattle WA USA.
In 1992-1994 she was owned by New Star Fisheries Inc., Seattle, WA USA.
In 1997 she was owned by Aqua Silver LLC, Seattle WA USA.
Rebuilds
1962 converted into a tuna seiner. 1986 began conversion to a processor but work suspended. 1988 converted into a longliner.
Repower
1962 repowered with twin Diesel engines for 1800 HP.
References
- www.navsource.net ↗ (website viewed 25/01/2023)
- Merchant Vessels of the United States, 1964-1989 and digital files 1992-2013.
