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History
Foss was founded in 1889 by Thea Foss, a young Norwegian immigrant, and her husband, Andrew. They began the company in Tacoma, Washington renting small boats to fishermen and duck hunters, ferrying customers, and delivering supplies in the Tacoma waterways. By 1904, the company boasted 10 launches, a shipyard, a 60-passenger, oil powered boat, and a small rescue craft to help disabled vessels. World War I propelled the small towing business to a new level, allowing Foss to purchase interests in a Seattle-based towboat company.
Thea died in 1927, a day before her 70th birthday. Members of the Foss family, including Thea's three sons, continued to operate Foss Maritime for many decades. The city of Tacoma named the Thea Foss Waterway after this pioneer, who is also said to be the inspiration for the television series "Tugboat Annie." Today, Foss Maritime is a legacy to Thea and Andrews's hard work, determination and vision. The green and white colors she painted the first rowboat are still used on the company's powerful state-of the art tugs, which can now be seen in waters throughout the world.
In 1987 Foss was bought by Saltchuk Resources, Inc., a privately owned family investment company that primarily focuses on maritime transportation. Although Foss continues to operate independently, it is now part of a worldwide network, with sister companies that, together, can provide customers a full range of transportation services.
Thea Foss in Tacoma.
The company's first family: Thea and Andrew Foss (seated) with sons
(from left) Wedell, Arthur and Henry. Early 1920s.
1959, Foss assisted in the construction of the Hood Canal Floating Bridge.