Tracking the fate of steel scows built by Matthew Beatty & Sons Limited of Welland, ON, pre-WWI, involves piecing together historical records, wreck sites, and documented uses for these vessels. The mention of two scows sunk near the Guild Inn in East Toronto (circa 1969) adds an intriguing layer to the inquiry. Below is an overview based on the information provided and possible avenues for further investigation:

Historical Context of Matthew Beatty & Sons Limited

• Matthew Beatty & Sons Limited was an active shipbuilding company in Welland, Ontario, during the early 20th century. It was known for constructing steel scows and other utilitarian vessels, particularly for industrial and construction purposes, such as dredging, material transport, and infrastructure projects.

• Pre-WWI Construction: The scows built during this period were likely rugged, steel-hulled vessels designed for hauling materials like sand, gravel, or debris. They were commonly used in the development of waterways, harbours, and other industrial projects along the Great Lakes.

The Guild Inn Site and Sinking of the Scows

• Location: Near the foot of Livingstone Road, east Toronto, near the Guild Inn, a historic site overlooking Lake Ontario.

• Circumstances: The two scows were reportedly sunk around 1969. It’s possible they were intentionally scuttled to serve as breakwaters, a common practice for retired industrial vessels at the time. The Guild Inn area, with its natural bluff and waterfront, has been known for shoreline preservation efforts, which may explain their placement.

• Historical Relevance: The scows may have seen decades of service before their decommissioning and sinking. Their origins at Matthew Beatty & Sons Limited suggest they might have been used in significant projects on the Welland Canal, St. Lawrence River, or elsewhere in the Great Lakes.

Next Steps for Investigation

To confirm the identities and fates of these scows, consider the following:

1. Historical Ship Registries:

• Search pre-WWI registries for vessels built by Matthew Beatty & Sons Limited. These records may list scows built during that period, including details like dimensions, construction materials, and original owners.

• The Library and Archives Canada Ship Registration Database or the Great Lakes Historical Society may have relevant entries.

2. Guild Inn and Shoreline Projects:

• Investigate local historical societies or records related to Toronto’s Guild Inn area and shoreline preservation projects from the 1960s.

• City of Toronto Archives or Toronto Port Authority records may provide insight into scuttling projects or shoreline management efforts.

3. Diving and Wreck Surveys:

• If the scows are still intact underwater, local diving clubs or underwater archaeology groups may have surveyed the wrecks. Groups such as Save Ontario Shipwrecks or SonarGuy often document submerged wrecks and might have relevant data.

4. Beatty Yard Records:

• Archives or records from the Matthew Beatty & Sons Limited shipyard, if preserved, could reveal the intended purpose and original ownership of the scows.

Possible Resources

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Contains records and databases of Great Lakes vessels and shipbuilders.

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: May hold entries for scows sunk near Toronto.

• Toronto Historical Society: For local maritime history, including the Guild Inn and surrounding waters.

Conclusion

The two scows sunk near the Guild Inn represent a tangible link to Ontario’s industrial and maritime history. With their roots in Matthew Beatty & Sons Limited, they were likely part of significant infrastructural efforts. Further research through historical records, diving surveys, and local archives could illuminate their identities and the full scope of their service.