USS ''Gypsum Queen'' (SP-430) was a tugboat acquired by the United States Navy during World War I. She was assigned to the French coast as a minesweeper, as well as a tugboat to provide assistance to disabled Allied ships. Performing this dangerous work, ''Gypsum Queen'' struck a rock near Brest, France, and sunk, sending 15 crew members to their deaths.

Constructed in Camden, New Jersey

''Gypsum Queen'' — a sea-going tug — was built by Dialogue & Company, Camden, New Jersey in 1890, acquired from her owners, J. B. King Transportation Co. of New York City in September 1917; and commissioned on 4 December 1917 at New York City.

World War I service

Turned over to the 3d Naval District, ''Gypsum Queen'' was fitted out for overseas service at New York Navy Yard and subsequently served in French ports as a towing vessel and a minesweeper.

Sinking

While returning from rendering assistance to minesweepers foundering off the coast of France, ''Gypsum Queen'' struck a rock near Armen Light House off Brest, France, Brest on 28 April 1919 and sank with a loss of two officers and 13 men.

References

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John H. Dialogue - Dialogue Shipyard
{{DEFAULTSORT:Gypsum Queen World War I auxiliary ships of the United States Tugs of the United States Navy Ships built by Dialogue & Company Shipwrecks in the Bay of Biscay 1890 ships Minesweepers of the United States Navy World War I minesweepers of the United States Maritime incidents in 1919