Authentic Russell & Stoll Co. heavy-duty marine electrical switch (Catalog No. 3725) believed to have been recovered decades ago from the World War II U.S. Navy gasoline storage barge YOG-42 at Shipwreck Beach, Lānaʻi, Hawaii.

A Little About This Piece

This is one of the hardest items I’ve decided to let go of.

It has been in my family for many years and has always been more than just an old switch. Along with it come the original photographs and handwritten note telling the story of where it came from—a World War II shipwreck off the coast of Lānaʻi, Hawaii. Whether displayed on a shelf or simply held in your hand, it’s hard not to imagine the history it witnessed.

I’ve spent many hours researching its story and learning about the ship and the people connected to it. It deserves to be appreciated by someone who enjoys preserving history as much as I do.

The only reason I’m selling it is because life has brought some unexpected financial challenges, and right now my family comes first. As difficult as it is to part with something that has been in our family, I’d rather see it go to someone who will value its history than have it sit tucked away.

I hope it finds a new home with someone who will preserve its story for many years to come.

• Original handwritten provenance note.\
• Original photographs of the shipwreck.\
• Original deck photographs taken aboard the wreck.\
• Switch itself in original, unrestored condition.

History

YOG-42 was a U.S. Navy gasoline storage barge built in 1942–1943 during World War II. While under tow across the South Pacific in September 1943, the tug USS Navajo was torpedoed by the Japanese submarine I-39. Navajo sank, but YOG-42 survived the attack and continued serving the Navy for the remainder of the war.

After WWII, YOG-42 was grounded off Shipwreck Beach on Lānaʻi, where it remained for decades. This Russell & Stoll switch is believed to have been removed from that wreck many years ago and has remained with the original photographs and provenance ever since.

Switch Details

• Russell & Stoll Co., New York\
• Catalog No. 3725\
• 125V / 20A\
• 250V / 10A\
• Heavy cast brass marine construction\
• Original patina

This would make an outstanding addition to a:

• WWII collection\
• U.S. Navy collection\
• Maritime museum-quality display\
• Shipwreck artifact collection\
• Hawaiian history collection

Cash only. No trades.