Identification & Site Information

  • Name: CONDOR
  • Type: Composite Lake/River Barge
  • Location: Ashore at Point Traverse, Prince Edward County, Ontario
  • Coordinates: Not specified; located west of Poplar Bar, south side of Point Traverse.
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 193 feet (58.8 meters)
    • Beam: 34 feet (10.4 meters)
    • Depth: 12 feet (3.7 meters)
    • Gross Tonnage: Initially 633 tons, reduced to 566.69 tons after modifications.
  • Site Status: Wrecked on August 17, 1921; remains are scattered or buried along the shoreline.

Vessel Type Description

The CONDOR was a composite lake Barge, later adapted for river use. Built in 1888 by A. Cantin in Montreal for the Kingston & Montreal Forwarding Co., it was notable as the largest Barge on the upper St. Lawrence at the time. Initially equipped with three masts for winter operations on Lake Superior, the vessel was later modified for river service, as evidenced by depictions without masts in later years. The Barge was known for its large capacity of 40,000 bushels, making it an essential part of the region’s maritime trade.

History

  • Launch & Early Service:
  • Launch Date: August 1, 1888, in Montreal.
    • Designed for transporting bulk goods, including coal and grain.
    • Valued at $20,000, reflecting its size and capacity at the time.
  • Operational Highlights:
    • The CONDOR experienced several mishaps during its service:
  • October 1889: Sank in the Galoup Rapids of the St. Lawrence River.
  • 1917: Grounded again but was recovered and returned to service.
    • Underwent a major Rebuild in 1915 to extend its operational life.
    • Ownership transitioned several times:
  • 1906: Montreal Transportation Company.
  • 1919: A.A. Larocque.
  • Final Voyage:
    • On August 17, 1921, the CONDOR was being towed by the Tug MACSINCO to Montreal with a coal cargo.
    • The vessel ran aground west of Poplar Bar, south of Point Traverse.
    • The Barge ATLASCO (formerly the Russell Sage) also sank during the incident.
    • The CONDOR’s registry was closed on August 22, 1921, ending its operational career.

Final Disposition

The CONDOR remains grounded where it wrecked in 1921. The shoreline near Point Traverse has likely scattered or buried the remains, with natural processes contributing to the deterioration of the wreck over time.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Condition:

Due to its grounding and years of exposure, the wreck is likely in a deteriorated state, with structural elements scattered or buried under sediment.

Accessibility:

While not formally salvaged, remnants may still be visible during certain conditions. Exploration of the site is best suited for historians or divers familiar with shallow-water wrecks near shorelines.

Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs)

There are no specific NOTMARs related to the CONDOR. However, caution is advised for mariners and divers in the area due to the potential presence of underwater debris and changing shoreline conditions.

Resources & Links

Analysis

The story of the CONDOR showcases the evolution of Barge technology and the challenges faced by vessels operating in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With its significant capacity and role in transporting bulk cargo, the CONDOR exemplified the industrial and economic importance of barges during this era. The vessel’s long service life, numerous ownership changes, and final grounding at Point Traverse highlight the resilience of these ships and the risks inherent in maritime operations.

Conclusion

The CONDOR remains an intriguing piece of maritime history, representing the transition from large, multi-purpose barges to more specialized vessels in the Great Lakes region. While its wreck site is deteriorated, the CONDOR’s legacy endures as a symbol of the industrious spirit that defined Great Lakes shipping during its operational years.

Keywords

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