Willis B. Boyer Museum Ship

WILLIS B. BOYER

In the shadow of the Toledo skyline, moored alongside the rolling landscape of International Park, a splash of history and romance await you aboard the museum ship S.S. WILLIS B. BOYER.

Upon her launching in 1911, the S.S. WILLIS B. BOYER, then called the COL. JAMES M. SCHOONMAKER was proclaimed to be “The World’s Largest Bulk Freighter.” Built at the Great Lakes Engineering Works of Ecorse, Michigan the SCHOONMAKER was unsurpassed in both size and elegance. Maintaining her crown as “Queen of the Lakes” from July 1, 1911 to April 14, 1914, the SCHOONMAKER established multiple cargo records for iron ore, coal, and rye cargoes.

Retiring in 1980, and opened as a museum in 1987, the S.S. WILLIS B. BOYER serves as a floating testament to Toledo’s rich maritime heritage. Authentic restoration allows all who visit to witness the proud lifestyle experienced by centuries of Great Lakes sailors. Come experience the “golden age” of Great Lakes shipping aboard the largest museum ship on the inland seas.