Michigan's Steamship SS Keewatin
The SS Keewatin, the last of the elegant Great Lakes passenger steamships, is now a floating museum docked in Douglas, Michigan, just across the Kalamazoo River from Saugatuck (see page 62 for more about Saugatuck).
Built in Scotland in 1907, the 350-foot-long boat was actually cut in half to get it through the Welland Canal, which links Lakes Erie and Ontario. It was retired from service in 1965.
During a tour, you'll marvel at the vessel's Italian hand-etched and painted lounge skylights...the walnut-lined Edwardian dining room...and the hand-carved oak panels in the men's lounge. This was a luxurious way to travel!
The Keewatin Maritime Museum is just south of the Saugatuck-Douglas Bridge, at Blue Star Highway and Union Street. Guided tours are available from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Admission is $8.50 for adults and $4.50 for children ages 6-12.
For details, call 1-269/857-2464 (1-517/589-8635 in winter) or visit www.keewatinmaritimemuseum.com.
What is the latest update on the dredging, and removal of the Keewatin? We toured the ship about 4 years ago, and it was wonderful! The history of the ship, and the interior is absolutely beautiful.
Douglas and The Saugatuk area are losing a Gem, no doubt. But it is nice that the ship is finally returning to her Home Port.