Welcome to the Bull-of-the-Woods Logging Scow, a unique relic from the bygone era of logging and steam-powered ingenuity in northeastern Minnesota. This small paddle steamer, resting in the serene waters of Burntside Lake, tells a compelling story of industrial prowess and innovation at the turn of the 20th century.
Built no earlier than 1893, the Bull-of-the-Woods served the booming lumber industry in Minnesota, a state renowned for its rich timber resources. This vessel, like others of its kind, was affectionately known as an ‘alligator’ or ‘gator.’ Its flat-bottomed design and shallow paddle wheels made it adept at navigating the shallow waters of Minnesota’s lakes and rivers. But these vessels had a trick up their sleeves—they could even pull themselves over land using a steam-powered winch, a testament to the ingenuity of their design.
The Bull-of-the-Woods was more than just a steamer; it was a workhorse. Equipped with a steam donkey, a type of steam-powered winch, it played a crucial role in the transportation of timber. It towed massive rafts of logs, hoisted timber, and navigated the challenging waterways, demonstrating the critical shift towards mechanization in the logging industry. Its service likely extended until 1926, marking the end of logging operations on Burntside Lake.
Today, the Bull-of-the-Woods is the only known surviving example of its kind, earning it a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1999. This designation highlights its architectural and industrial significance, offering a tangible connection to the past and a symbol of the logging industry’s evolution.
As you explore this site, imagine the bustling activity of the timber industry, the steam rising from the vessel, and the echo of its paddle wheels against the water, all of which played a part in shaping the economic landscape of Minnesota.
