Dredge 32

Source: www.mikehooks.com

Gator, thanks for the feedback. More info is always welcom

Originally built in 1932, under the name GRAFTON,  the Dredge 32 is believed to be the oldest cutter suction dredge in operation in the United States.

The dredge was eventually acquired by Bauer Dredging (Port Lavaca, TX) in 1960 and renamed to its current moniker of Dredge 32.

In 1974, the dredge was purchased from Bauer Dredging by Bean Dredging (New Orleans, LA) who continued to operate the vessel for another 13 years before its final transfer of ownership to Mike Hooks, LLC in 1987.

In December of 1987, Mr. Mike Hooks, founder of Mike Hooks, LLC, purchased the Dredge 32 from Bean Dredging. Allegedly, Mr. Hooks purchased the dredger as scrap and intended to salvage the vessel for parts. Upon its arrival, Hooks decided instead to put the 32 to work and it has continued to operate to this day under the direct supervision of Captain Savoie and Mr. Stelly.