SS Meteor (1896)

The SS Meteor is a historic whaleback freighter that sailed on the Great Lakes. Launched in 1896 as the Frank Rockefeller, she is the sole surviving example of this unusual ship design. Whalebacks were designed with a rounded hull intended to shed water easily and improve efficiency in rough seas.

The Frank Rockefeller was built by the American Steel Barge Company in Superior, Wisconsin, owned by Alexander McDougall, the inventor of the whaleback design. She initially carried iron ore, grain, and other bulk cargoes for the Rockefeller interests.

In 1942, the vessel was sold and renamed Meteor. In 1969, she was retired from active service and acquired by the city of Superior, Wisconsin, to serve as a maritime museum.

Today, the SS Meteor is permanently berthed in Superior as the SS Meteor Maritime Museum. Visitors can tour the ship and learn about the history of the whaleback design and Great Lakes shipping. She is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.