James L Oberstar Prototype

Shown is the prototype, final products coming soon.  Please send feedback on possible desired lengths so I can determine how many versions to build.

This classic Great Lakes steamer was originally built as a straight deck bulk carrier. The Shenango Furnace Co. of Pittsburgh, PA announced in 1957 that a contract had been granted to the American Ship Building Co. of Toledo, OH to build a new freighter for delivery in 1959. With construction of the new carrier under way, the Shenango Furnace Co. decided in 1958 to sell their aging bulk carrier Shenango (built in 1909) to American Steamship Co. who renamed the laker B.W. Druckenmiller. Built as the ship yard’s hull #193 at a cost of approximately $8 million, the new lake boat was launched on November 22, 1958 and was christened as the Shenango II on May 14, 1959 at Cleveland, OH after having completed her sea trials on April 16. She was commissioned and entered service on May 16. The Shenango II was named after her owner’s corporate name (with the Roman numeral “II” added); their wish being to continue the tradition started in 1909 of the name being carried by one of the vessels in their fleet.