Diesel towboat, steel hull, twin props, built in 1941 in Chicago by Calumet Ship Yard and Dry Dock Co. The Onward was 135'8" x 31'1" x 7'2". It was powered by National Superior eight cylinder diesels totaling 2000 hp at 300 rpm. Engines were supercharged, and the boat had direct drive. A kort nozzle stern was installed at Dravo in 1948. Originally named Paul Blazer, after the founder of Ashland Oil, the boat was owned by Ashland Oil & Refining Co. It was sold to Onward Towing Co., Catlettsburg, KY in 1960 and the name was changed. In 1964 the company was located in Proctorville, OH.
Dad piloted the Onward through at least the mid to late 1960s. He was also a Director, Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of Onward Towing, Inc. until he resigned October 1, 1971.
This photo from Dad's collection shows the Onward at Warsaw, KY on April 24, 1973 and was taken by C. Allen Caldwell.