in 1915, the ss "eastland" capsized while docked in the chicago river, with the loss of over 800 lives. officials subsequently ordered many passenger ships to undergo stability testing, which the "columbus" passed easily. even with 7,500 sandbags (simulating passengers) piled on one side, and tugboats pulling in that direction, she listed only 12 degrees. "columbus" was featured at the century of progress exhibition in chicago in 1932–33.