C140 - SS Eastland

The SS Eastland, launched in 1903, was a passenger steamship built to carry Chicago residents across Lake Michigan on leisure excursions. Celebrated for its size and comfort, it was among the largest passenger vessels on the Great Lakes. However, in 1915, the Eastland tragically capsized in the Chicago River, resulting in the loss of more than 800 lives—one of the deadliest maritime disasters in U.S. history.

This museum-quality model faithfully recreates the historic vessel with exceptional craftsmanship. Built from premium woods using the traditional plank-on-frame method, each hull, deck, and structural detail is hand-assembled by master artisans to ensure accuracy and authenticity. The model captures the Eastland’s defining features, including its twin funnels, finely detailed deck fittings, lifeboats, and railings—all precisely scaled to the original ship.

Displayed on a polished wooden base with a brass nameplate, this SS Eastland replica reflects both the elegance of early 20th-century passenger steamships and the poignant legacy of this ill-fated vessel. It is a remarkable centerpiece for collectors, maritime enthusiasts, and anyone drawn to the history of the Great Lakes.

History

The SS Eastland, built in 1903 by the St. Joseph Shipbuilding Company in Michigan, quickly became a favorite for day trips and leisure cruises across Lake Michigan. With her wide beam and elegant interiors, she could accommodate more than 2,500 passengers, offering a modern and comfortable experience for Chicago’s growing population of tourists and weekend travelers.

However, despite her popularity, concerns about the ship’s stability persisted—especially after design modifications increased her passenger capacity. On July 24, 1915, while boarding for a company excursion on the Chicago River, the SS Eastland suddenly rolled onto her side and capsized, trapping hundreds aboard. More than 800 lives were lost, marking one of the worst maritime disasters in U.S. history and drawing national attention to the shortcomings of passenger ship safety.

The tragedy spurred significant reforms in maritime regulations, influencing vessel design and boarding procedures for decades. Today, the story of the SS Eastland endures as a powerful reminder of both the grandeur and fragility of early 20th-century passenger travel—preserved through museums, historical records, and detailed handcrafted replicas like this one.