Port Washington in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Lifeboat from the S.S. Milwaukee
When the Milwaukee passed the U.S. Lightship 95, anchored 3 miles offshore from Milwaukee, it was reported to be pitching and rolling heavily as it disappeared into the storm. The waves were so large, they broke over the seagate and bent it inwards. After turning back toward Milwaukee, the rail car ferry began taking on water below deck lifting the railroad cars off their wheels and moving them around the hull. The Milwaukee never returned to port. There were no survivors.
Several days later, this lifeboat was discovered near Holland, Michigan. The lifeboat contained the bodies of four S.S. Milwaukee crew members who died overnight from exposure. The lifeboat was donated by Robert Manglitz operator of the S.S. Badger. In 1972, the wreck of the Milwaukee was found 20 miles south of Port Washington, 3 miles offshore, resting upright in 120 feet of water.
The donation for the restoration of the lifeboat and its display shelter was given in memory of Edith and Marshall Moeser.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Waterways & Vessels.
Location. 43° 23.458′ N, 87° 52.084′ W. Marker is in Port Washington, Wisconsin, in Ozaukee County. Marker is on Johnson Street. The marker and lifeboat are on the grounds of the 1860 Light Station operated by the Port Washington Historical Society. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 311 Johnson St, Port Washington WI 53074, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Port Washington Light Station (a few steps from this marker); The Northerner Anchor (within shouting distance of this marker); Cistern (within shouting distance of this marker); Well (within shouting distance of this marker); Oil House (within shouting distance of this marker); The Lights of Port Washington (within shouting distance of this marker); Woodland Habitat (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Lakeside Brewery Site (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Port Washington.
Credits. This page was last revised on April 8, 2024. It was originally submitted on April 7, 2024, by Devon Polzar of Port Washington, Wisconsin. This page has been viewed 36 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on April 7, 2024, by Devon Polzar of Port Washington, Wisconsin. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.