Jun 27, 201106:24 PMThe Bucket List
S.S. William A. Irvin
decc.org
How would you like to retire after forty years of work? If it’s a guarantee I’m certain many would jump on the opportunity! What if it was also a guarantee to, in those forty years, make a record that still remains unbroken even after your retirement? What if you were the first to be created, the first in your area, and the first to incorporate the new spirit and technologies following the Depression? What if you were guaranteed a place in history? What if you were guaranteed appreciation?
The S.S. William A. Irvin may not be a person, but she attained every one of those possibilities. According to the Minnesota Historical Society, built and launched between 1937 and 1938 in Lorain, Ohio, she was “the first major bulk freighter built on the Great Lakes after the Depression.” Her creation incorporated new technologies such as a cross-combine turbine engine and electronically welded joints. She was the first of four in her class and worked in the U.S. Steel’s Great Lakes Fleet by transporting natural resources and bulk materials around the Great Lakes. She was built strong and efficient for her labor and she did well, setting the cargo record for unloading 13,856 tons of iron ore in two hours and fifty-five minutes—a record still unbroken even today!
The Irvin stood set apart from her peers in the feet for she wasn’t only built to work but also to entertain travelers or U.S. Steel’s guests. She alone was outfitted with four private luxury cabins, an observation deck, and dining area. Guests enjoyed these amenities as well as shuffleboard, kite flying, and golf.
The S.S. William A. Irvin served faithfully for forty years before retiring from active duty in 1978. Eight years later, she opened and served in Duluth as a floating museum—an occupation she still finds pleasure in today. Residents, tourists, and school groups appreciate viewing her antique furnishings and amenities, strolling through the narrow passages and doorways of her interior, and taking pictures of her 610 foot frame from where she rests near the Omnimax and DECC.
She is open for tours throughout the summer and in October she dons her costume and dares the community to walk the Haunted Ship. I’ve personally never accepted her dare but I have taken a tour and found her to be more than what she appears. I’m sure you’ve seen this Great Lakes historical figure on your travels through Duluth and I encourage you to stop by for a visit! Don’t let her get lonely! For more information on tours and dates visit www.decc.org.
