Story
This tug was built in 1929 by Astoria Marine, Astoria OR USA.
Historical Notes
Ric Shrewsbury (British Columbia Nautical History Facebook Group 09/01/2015) reports that "Originally tug Knappton then owned by Bob Simmons for years." Craigs List says "The Chief is a working operational tug boat with a 1954 model 1500 hp Universal 8 cyl diesel direct reversing motor. The low rpm motor will last almost forever. It has diesel gensets and a diesel air compressor. It has two staterooms a galley, salon and wheelhouse. It is old, but has great character and beautiful bronze historic equipment in the wheelhouse. It was operated by the Army in WWII who likely repowered it before they sold it. It has quite an 85 year history. Asbestos has been removed. Wood tug boat built in 1929. Hull is wood with steel supported shoulders. Main engine is an Enterprise Dmg 38 which is direct reversing engine, has spool compressor for air starts and stearing. Was a live aboard until 2 years ago but still did tows with it throughout that time." George Schneider (May 2026) Writes: On 30 November 2017 she was reported to have sunk near the Ballard Oil Co. pier in Lake Washington, WA.
Owners & Masters
In 1935-1942 she was owned by Westport Towboat Co., Astoria OR USA.
In 1942-1947 she was owned by the United States Navy.
In 1947 she was owned by the Westport Towboat Co., Astoria OR.
In 1948-1963 she was owned by the Knappton Towboat Co., Astoria OR.
In 1968-1987 she was owned by Robert E. Simmons, Seattle WA.
In 1989-1992 she was owned by Yankee Enterprises Inc., Seattle WA.
In 2015 she was owned by Anthony Smith, Sand Point AK.
In 2016 she was owned by Timothy E. Whitney, Seattle WA USA.
Repower
Repowered with 1954 model low speed 1500 HP Diesel by Universal Motor Co., Oshkosh WI USA
References
Merchant Vessels of the United States (1930-1989), Merchant Vessels of the United States Annual digital data files, 1992-2017, cgmix.uscg.mil ↗ (Accessed 10 May 2026), Tugs Towing & Offshore Newsletter, No. 98-2017 (sinking).
