Steam Crane Boss 300 13" X 19"

This 75-ton steam crane barge, known as a “derrick”, has been in operation since 1943 when it was built for the US army in Stockton California. There were three derricks were built on this design, two of which were later converted to diesel engine power. The Boss is the only one of the three still operating using its original steam power plant.

After the war, Foss Tug and Barge bought the derrick and gave her the number “300”. She was meticulously cared for over generations with the company, and finally sold to neighboring Snow Boatbuilding, who have taken over care for her and her legacy.

The derrick has been a familiar sight in Puget sound for many years, and was a part of legendary salvage operations. Under the name Foss 300, she helped salvage the cargo of the freighter Diamond Knot, which sunk with millions of cans of salmon aboard in 1947. She also raised a DC-3 airliner that crashed in the waters of Puget Sound in 1956.

This drawing is to be featured in the book Working Boats: Safety Salvage and Rescue by artist and author Tom Crestodina. A limited edition of 500 signed, numbered giclee prints is available for purchase.

Media: Ink and colored pencil with touches of ramen broth