Sin-Mac Lines Ltd

Sin-Mac Lines Ltd., also known as Sincennes-MacNaughton Lines, was a prominent Canadian shipping company based in Montreal, Quebec. Established in the early 20th century, the company played a significant role in the maritime industry of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River, specializing in towing services and the operation of various vessels, including tugboats and barges.

Historical Overview:

Formation and Operations: Sin-Mac Lines Ltd. emerged as a key player in the Canadian maritime sector, providing essential towing and transportation services across the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. The company’s operations were crucial for the movement of goods and materials, supporting both local economies and broader trade networks.

Fleet Composition: The company’s fleet included a variety of vessels, notably tugboats and barges, which were integral to its towing and transportation services. For instance, the tugboat Felicia, built in 1923 by Sorel Mechanical Shops Limited, was initially owned by Sin-Mac Lines Ltd. This vessel exemplifies the type of robust and versatile ships that comprised the company’s fleet. 

Notable Vessels:

• Frontenac was a wooden screw steamer tugboat built in 1901 by the Calvin Company at Garden Island, Ontario. The vessel was specifically designed for towing large rafts of square timber, a crucial part of the timber trade in the early 20th century. The Frontenac was sturdy and capable of handling the heavy loads required for this purpose, which contributed to its significant role in the industry.
• Columbian (later Rapids Queen): Originally built in 1892, this vessel was owned by Sin-Mac Lines Ltd. in 1930 and was later chartered for use as a hotel for clinic patients in Morrisburg, Ontario. 

Legacy

Sin-Mac Lines Ltd. contributed significantly to the development of maritime transportation in Canada, particularly in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River regions. The company’s operations facilitated the efficient movement of goods and materials, supporting economic growth and regional development. While specific details about the company’s dissolution or current status are limited, its impact on Canadian maritime history remains noteworthy.

References:

• Tugboat Information: Felicia
• Great Lakes Ships: Columbian (1892, Propeller)
• Great Lakes Vessel History: Redhead

These sources provide detailed information about the vessels operated by Sin-Mac Lines Ltd. and offer insights into the company’s role in the maritime industry.