Touring the SS Meteor with Michael Hull

9/6/2024  [Photo tour in gallery below]

The SS Meteor is the last remaining example of the innovative “whaleback” ship design, which was a revolutionary type of cargo vessel created in the late 19th century. Built in 1896 in Superior, Wisconsin, by Alexander McDougall, the Meteor was designed to carry large quantities of bulk cargo such as grain and ore across the Great Lakes. The ship’s distinctive rounded hull allowed it to cut through waves more efficiently, reducing drag and improving stability in rough waters. The Meteor served in various capacities over the decades, including as an oil tanker during World War II. Today, the SS Meteor is preserved as a museum ship in Superior, where visitors can explore its unique design and learn about the history of shipping on the Great Lakes. These pictures were taken on August 28, 2024. A huge thank you to Dara Fillmore for the awesome and highly informative tour.

National Museum of the Great Lakes Second
Wave Capital Campaign Nears Completion

Toledo, OH – The National Museum of the Great Lakes is entering a new chapter as its Second Wave expansion project progresses. With the foundation set and structural build underway, the museum is reaching out to the community for a final push of support. Now is your chance to contribute to the future legacy of this historic institution.

 The Second Wave expansion will add 5,000 square feet of new space, allowing the museum to showcase traveling Smithsonian exhibits, introduce new permanent exhibits, and create dedicated spaces for community education.

“By supporting this campaign, donors are actively preserving Great Lakes history, fueling ongoing education, revitalizing our neighborhood, and boosting the economic vitality of our region,” said Kate Fineske, Executive Director of the National Museum of the Great Lakes.

Donations can be made online at nmgl.org/thesecondwave or by calling the museum at 419-214-5000. Contributions of all sizes are welcome, and donors will receive exclusive Second Wave thank you gifts as a token of appreciation. Donors contributing more than $500 will also be recognized on our donor wall.

“This is the moment to make a lasting impact on our museum and the communities we serve,” said Sara Smith, the Museum’s Director of Institutional Advancement. As we conclude our public campaign, join in this effort and ensure the National Museum of the Great Lakes remains a beacon of pride and inspiration for generations to come. For more information or to make a donation,

The National Museum of the Great Lakes