In 1896, the Wisconsin was sold to Edward Gifford Crosby for the Crosby Line in Muskegon, Mich. She continued the Grand Haven-to-Milwaukee route, but in 1898 Crosby changed her name to the SS Naomi, in honor of his daughter who, records suggest, may have died during childhood.

The Wisconsin under way, date and location unknown. Photo courtesy of the Wisconsin Maritime Museum

On May 21, 1907, in the middle of Lake Michigan, a fire swept the Naomi. The SS Curry was able to rescue all but four crewmembers who were trapped below decks by the flames. After the fire burned out, the Naomi was towed to Grand Haven and then to the Manitowoc shipyard for a complete rebuilding that cost more than $200,000. A bustle was added along her entire length, widening her hull by six feet. Also added was an all-steel superstructure with one hundred cabins, two decks, wood paneling, and elegant decorations. When she returned to service, the SS Naomi was again considered one of the finest steamers on Lake Michigan.