Foss Launch and Tug Company began in 1889.  As the years went on, the company grew.  The company, among other work, repaired and refurbished vessels.  During much of this work, in the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, workers were exposed to asbestos containing materials.  Asbestos containing materials on boats included insulation, boilers, pipe fittings and gaskets.  Unfortunately, exposure to asbestos containing materials can lead to mesothelioma and other asbestos related cancers.