According to a report out of Thunder Bay, the James Whalen tug will be no more. The tug is over 100 years old and city councilor’s have voted to secure a contract with a company to recycle it. There has been years of discussions as to what to do with it.
In 2022, the James Whalen tugboat, which was docked at the Kaministiquia River Heritage Park, sank into the river.
The tug is now located further along the river, resting on the shore near the James Street Swing Bridge. The Transportation Museum of Thunder Bay has been actively advocating for the preservation of the James Whalen. While the original plan was to relocate the vessel to the museum’s leased site, more recent discussions have shifted toward preserving select parts of the boat or possibly displaying the entire deck above the waterline.
Join us for Raisin’ Whalen, a fundraising dinner to support the Thunder Bay Transportation Museum and preserve our transportation story.
Enjoy dinner, hear about the history of the James Whalen Tug, bid on unique auctions, and win door prizes—all while supporting a National Historic Site.
Details
- May 23, 2025
- Current River Community Centre, Thunder Bay, Ontario
- Tickets $50.00
- Buy Tickets Now
Can’t attend? Donate or share to help save this iconic piece of history.