Brief history of the Russel Brothers...

Many of the tugboats that we'll see next weekend were built by the Russel Bros. Here is a brief history of this impressive company:

In 1907, Colin and Robert Jardine Russel opened a small machinery shop in Fort Frances, Ontario.

In 1927, the brothers changed to Steelcraft construction.

1937, the Russel Brothers Limited packed up 14 railcars and moved their operation to Owen Sound.

During the Second World War, Russel Brothers received several Naval contracts for tugs and barges from the Department of Munitions and Supply.

In response to requests for electric generators, an independent company was set up to operate out of a separate building and was named Russel-Hipwell Engines Limited.

In the early 1960s, Norval E. Hipwell, who had controlling interest in both of the companies, relinquished the boat building division. Russel Brothers Limited continued to build hundreds of small steel boats.

In May 1965, the company underwent a management change. Forced to diversify to keep the company profitable.

By the time their last boat was completed in 1974, Russel Brothers Limited was known for their outstanding vessels. These included logging tugs, fishing boats, pleasure boats, car ferries, barges, steel pontoons, crafts for the Canadian and British Navies and work vessels for Canada's Arctic.

Following its sale in 1981 to Paccar Corporation of Bellevue, Washington, Russel Brothers slowly declined until its eventual bankruptcy in 1993.

A more complete history can be found on the Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum web site. If you have comments or photos please share them.

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