The Mysterious Fool Killer Submarine Found in Chicago

​In 1915, a peculiar and chilling discovery captured the imagination of Chicagoans: a rusting, primitive submarine was dredged from the murky depths of the Chicago River. Dubbed the "Fool Killer," this enigmatic vessel remains a testament to human ingenuity, daring, and the shadowy stories beneath the surface of history.

The submarine was unearthed during a routine dredging operation near the Rush Street Bridge. Measuring about 40 feet in length, the vessel bore the unmistakable marks of amateur craftsmanship. Its cigar-shaped body was constructed from riveted iron plates, with a rudimentary conning tower, portholes, and a hand-cranked propulsion system. The find was remarkable not only for its uniqueness but for the macabre details that accompanied it: inside the submarine were the skeletal remains of its presumed builder and an unidentified passenger.

The story of the Fool Killer is shrouded in mystery, with its origins and purpose remaining largely speculative. Historical accounts suggest that the submarine may have been the brainchild of Lodner D. Phillips, a 19th-century inventor from Indiana. Phillips was known for pioneering submarine design work and had patented several submersible prototypes in the mid-1800s. However, unlike military submarines of the era, Phillips' designs were intended for civilian use, particularly for salvage and underwater exploration. It is plausible that the Fool Killer was an experimental vessel, either abandoned or lost during a failed venture.

The vessel's nickname, "Fool Killer," adds a dramatic and ominous layer to its story. In the early 20th century, the term was colloquially used to describe risky undertakings or the individuals who embarked on them. This moniker suggests that the submarine's creation and use were seen as a daring, perhaps reckless endeavor—a sentiment bolstered by the tragic fate of its occupants.

The circumstances leading to the submarine's sinking remain speculative. Some historians propose that it succumbed to mechanical failure or was overwhelmed by the strong currents of the Chicago River. Others theorize that it was deliberately scuttled after proving unfit for use. Regardless of its fate, the Fool Killer's discovery highlights the daring spirit of early submarine inventors, who risked life and limb to push the boundaries of underwater exploration.

After its recovery, the submarine briefly became a public sensation. It was displayed at a Chicago amusement park, where visitors could marvel at its crude construction and speculate about its story. Over time, however, the novelty waned, and the submarine faded into obscurity. Its current whereabouts are unknown, adding to the vessel's enduring mystery.
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The Fool Killer remains a fascinating relic of a bygone era when inventors operated on the fringes of possibility and danger. Its story reminds us of the daring individuals who ventured into uncharted territory, often at significant personal risk, pursuing innovation and discovery. To this day, the submarine's enigmatic past continues to intrigue historians, divers, and lovers of unsolved mysteries, keeping the legacy of the Fool Killer alive.