Story
This tug was built in 1952 by Pacific Coast Engineering (PACECO) in Alameda, CA.
Historical Notes
George Schneider (May 2026) writes: I'm told by crewmen that this class of boats had a peculiar name: When they were being built, the owners proudly called them "The Hundred Footers" which somebody mis-heard as "The Funny Boats" and that name stuck with them to the end. All 6 of the class were built by PACECO but outfitted by Pacific Drydock & Repair, Oakland CA.
They had surplus WWII engines and instead of rubrails they had one-in thick sheer strakes. The photo shows her when owned by Brusco, but the stack marking reflects that she was under charter to Seaway Towing Co. of Alameda CA.
She was broken up in 2023 at Mare Island CA.
Owners & Masters
In 1954-1981 she was owned by Shipowners & Merchants Towboat Co. Ltd., San Francisco CA. Her title was later passed on to other Crowley corporations.
In 1997-2023 she was owned by Brusco Tug & Barge Co., Seattle WA USA.
Repower
Later in life had a 2200 HP Diesel Engine
References
Pacific Work Boat Magazine, January 1953, Page 13. Merchant Vessels of the United States, 1954-1989, cgmix.uscg.mil ↗ (Accessed 10May26).
