J.J. Trask next season will launch on Lake Bemidji the swellest kind of a steamer. Mr. Kelsey, our local designer, has built for him a model for said boat and for lines and shape it is the neatest thing in the boat line we have ever seen. The boat will be about the size of the Shadow in length35 feet but wider, with a cabin or awning. First-class material and hardwood finish will be used. An 8 or 10 horse power steam engine will propel it at the rate of 12 miles an hour at least. In fact, the boat will be built for speed being duck shaped, but with its bow forming a perfect wedge, and the stern oval. The new steamer will be a dandy and no mistake and will form an addition to our lake fleet that will open the eyes of even Lake Minnetonka habitués. (Oct 25, 1900)
For Sale: A new sailboat, sloop rigered, nineteen feet over all, six foot beam, finished in white pine, oak and ash. Inquire of J. J. TRASK. (May 16, 1901)
The Latest Steamer.
J. J. Trask’s new steamer, the “Bertha.” the finest and largest steamer on the lake, is now in commission and will be used as Commodore Reynold’s flagship tomorrow night in the naval battle. The Bertha was designed by J. W. Kelsey of this city, and was built by J. J. Trask during the past winter. The boat is 38 feet in length, 9 feet beam and 9 tons displacement. The engine is a 12-horsepower, double cylinder Westinghouse, with 15-horse-power boiler of the latest pattern. The propeller is 28 inches in diameter with three flukes. It is the most thorough sea-going boat on the lake, and is capable of carrying 40 people. It is handsomely trimmed with oak, and its total cost is about $1,200. (May 16, 1901)
This boat was part of the tragedy that occurred the next day during the celebration of the 17th of May on Lake Bemidji, when several young men died.
In deference to the deaths that occurred, there were no further celebrations at the lakefront for several years.
Edward Trask expects to launch his passenger boat, the “Bertha” sometime this week. (1904)