Anchors Aweigh: A Day Aboard the Tug Chippewa
The Doty Group, Aboard the USS Chippewa, 2023
Nestled within the captivating waters of Puget Sound lies a piece of living history that has gracefully stood the test of time: the Tug Chippewa. Recently, The Doty Group had the distinct pleasure of embarking on a memorable three-hour voyage into the heart of Puget Sound, courtesy of the gracious hosts at J Squared Investments. Our journey aboard the Tug Chippewa was breathtaking and gave our team a great chance to connect with each other on such a beautiful day.
The Tug Chippewa's legacy stretches back to 1943, when she was first brought into existence by the skilled hands of the Puget Sound Bridge and Drydock Company in Seattle, Washington. Originally commissioned as the YTL-361 for the United States Navy, this vessel began her journey as a yard tug equipped with a Washington Iron Works engine. With the passage of time, she transitioned through various identities and owners, each chapter adding to her rich tapestry:
In 1960, the tug found a new home under the care of Foss Launch and Tug Company of Tacoma, Washington, and was christened the Roland Foss. She dutifully served in the towing sector for years, contributing her efforts to the maritime industry.
1976 marked yet another significant shift in the tug's destiny as she ventured into the Alaskan frontier under the name Chippewa, a name that reflected her rugged and enduring spirit. A few years later, her path led her to the hands of Donald C. Dana, who undertook the arduous task of restoring her to her former glory. With meticulous care and dedication, he transformed her into the Donald Robert, breathing life back into her timeworn frame.
In 2014, the tug found her way to another custodian, Daniel King of Edmonds, Washington. Rechristened once more as the Chippewa, she embarked on a new chapter as she continued to carry the torch of her maritime heritage.
At the helm of the Tug Chippewa's current voyage is Jeff Mincheff, owner of J Squared Investments, a passionate maritime enthusiast. With a deep appreciation for the vessel's history and significance, Jeff took up ownership in 2023. Under his guidance, the Chippewa will continue to sail the waters of Puget Sound as a living connection to the maritime heritage that defines this region.
Should you wish to experience the Tug Chippewa's beauty firsthand and witness her magnificence up close, mark your calendars for this Labor Day weekend. She will be proudly showcased as this year's ‘Logo Boat’ for Harbor Day’s’ 50th Anniversary from September 1st to 3rd in Olympia. It's an opportunity you won't want to miss!
Our voyage aboard the Tug Chippewa was an adventure that allowed us to connect with a part of the maritime legacy. We extend our deepest gratitude to J Squared Investments for extending their hospitality and inviting us on this unforgettable journey. Special thanks also go to Tacoma Rising, whose support made this journey possible.
As we disembarked from the Tug Chippewa, we carried memories of a sun-soaked day on the water and the stories of the individuals who have cared for and guided this vessel through history. The Tug Chippewa stands as a reminder of the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and tenacity of those who have shaped the maritime landscape of Puget Sound.
As we set foot on the deck of the Tug Chippewa, we were greeted by a vessel that holds within her wooden hull an incredible history. With a length of 76.9 feet, a hull depth of 10.5 feet, and a breadth of 20 feet, you can see the craftsmanship of her creators at Puget Sound Bridge & Drydock. Her wood construction brings one back to an era when vessels were handcrafted, and her journey across different names and roles reflects the ebb and flow of the tides in Puget Sound.
“Fair Winds and Following Seas, Tug Chippewa. May Your Legacy Continue to Inspire.”
-The Doty Group, P.S.
Note: For more information about the Tug Chippewa and its fascinating history, please visit harbordays.com/history-2.