Cason J. Callaway: built in 1952; 767 ft. long; Flag: USA
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
The Cason J. Calloway, part of the Great Lakes Fleet, purchased by Canadian National Railway and now operated by Key Lakes, Inc, was built in 1952. She has gone through several changes that have allowed her to continue an active life on the Great Lakes. First, in 1981, a 262-foot boom was added to her deck, changing her from a straight deck bulk carrier to a self-unloader. She had already been lengthened by 120 feet in 1974 to create her current length of 767 feet.
In 2002, she underwent an extensive rehabilitation at the Fraser Shipyard in Superior. Her steam engine was upgraded rather than replaced, and automation tools were added, moving control of the boat up to the pilot house. This makes her the most advanced steam powered-boat on the Great Lakes today.
She is named for a man who spent most of his life in Georgia, working in the textile industry. He became a member of the board of directors of US Steel in 1944 and served until his death in 1961. He also founded Callaway Gardens in Georgia. At their home page (http://www.callawaygardens.com/), the gardens are described as ".a man-made landscape in a unique natural setting, . conceived and created by Cason J. Callaway and his wife, Virginia Hand Callaway, for the benefit of mankind. The purpose is to provide a wholesome family environment where all may find beauty, relaxation, inspiration and a better understanding of the living world."
