Story
This fish tug was built in 1901 by Buffalo Drydock Co..
Historical Notes
In 1933 this vessel was reported broken up at Selkirk MB Canada. George Schneider (July 2026) writes: Either this was mistaken identity, or she received a reprieve because she continued on to become Purvis Marine's first tug, and as of 2026, is classified as "out of service" but is maintained in good condition and her documents remain current.
Owners & Masters
In 1901-1918 she was owned by William Tallman, Erie PA USA.
In 1918-1930 she was owned by Delia Jacques Sand & Gravel Co., Detroit MI USA.
In 1930-31 she was owned by W. J Jacques, Detroit MI USA.
In 1931-1941 she was owned by Eustace J. Roberts, Monroe MI USA.
In 1941-1957 she was owned by Newaygo Timber Co. Ltd., Port Arthur ON Canada.
In 1957-1967 she was owned by Abitibi Power & Paper Co. Ltd., Toronto ON Canada.
In 1966-1967 she was owned by Abitibi Paper Co. Ltd., Toronto ON Canada.
In 1967-2026 she was owned by Jack W. Purvis (MO) / Purvis Marine Ltd., , Sault Ste Marie ON Canada. In
Name Significance
In 1900 a "rocket" would simply have been a self-propelled projectile, usually using explosives for propulsion. It would have simply implied speed, which is relative for a dumpy fish tug hull using a 35 HP engine.
Rebuilds
Probably ca1918 she was converted from a fishing vessel to a tug.
Repower
Repowered in 1940 with a 100bhp diesel engine by Kahlenberg Bros. Co., Two Rivers WI
References
- Merchant Vessels of the United States (1902-1989)
- recherche-collection-search.bac-lac.gc.ca ↗ (website viewed 12/01/2026)
- gltugs.wordpress.com ↗ (accessed July 2026)
- greatlakes.bgsu.edu ↗ (accessed July 2026)
- Canada Shipping Register
