Ridiculous History CLASSIC: Gustaf Broman Tried to Cross the Atlantic in a Canoe . . . Or Did He?
Oct 21, 2025
In 1895, Gustaf Broman launched an audacious plan to cross the Atlantic in a dubious 13-foot log boat. His journey began with a bizarre rail-and-naphtha route from Oregon to New York. As crowds gathered to see the spectacle, the boat quickly capsized, drawing mockery from the press. Behind his charming facade lay a history of scams, insurance fraud, and criminal dealings. With a suspicious past and a potential motive to fake his death for insurance money, Broman's story unravels into a darkly entertaining tale.
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The Failed Cedar Log Atlantic Stunt
- Gustav Broman publicly announced he'd cross the Atlantic in a 13-foot cedar log boat named Gustav Adolf II.
- Four thousand people watched him launch before the boat repeatedly capsized and he arrived later aboard a steamer in cargo.
Broman's Criminal History Surfaces
- Reporters and police revealed Broman's long criminal history after his log-boat stunt made headlines.
- His record included extortion, a tar-and-feather episode, and a suspected insurance-driven fire that killed his brother.
Insurance, Fire, And A Controversial Acquittal
- Broman insured his brother and collected after the shanty fire that killed him, raising suspicion of arson and murder.
- He was arrested, tried, later discharged, and reportedly secured the insurance money amid claims of witness tampering.
