Shipwreck Report: Asia (1882, Wooden Steamer)

Identification & Site Information

• Name: Asia
• Former Names: None
• Registration Number: Unknown
• Date Built and Launched: 1873, by Simpson Shipyard in St. Catharines, Ontario
• Measurements: Length: 43.9 metres (144 feet) Beam: 7.9 metres (26 feet) Depth: 3.7 metres (12 feet)
• Gross Tonnage: 453 tons
• Net Tonnage: 364 tons
• Date Lost: September 14, 1882
• Location: Georgian Bay, near Byng Inlet and Lonely Island
• Status: Wreck location undiscovered

Vessel Type

A wooden, propeller-driven Steamship designed for carrying both passengers and freight.

Description

The Asia was a dual-purpose Steamship primarily serving the Great Lakes, with routes connecting Collingwood to Sault Ste. Marie. Although vital for regional commerce, the vessel’s design was not suitable for the rough, open waters of the lakes, particularly Georgian Bay. Its top-heavy construction made it vulnerable to instability, a flaw exacerbated when overloaded.

History

Construction and Service

Built in 1873 for J. H. Beattie of Sarnia, Ontario, the Asia served under the Great Northern Transportation Company. It was a dependable vessel for regional transport but struggled with structural and operational issues throughout its career.

Operational Challenges

October 1873: Struck a submerged rock near Port Colborne lighthouse, sinking in the harbour while carrying a cargo of wheat. September 1875: Collided with the Schooner Levi Rawson near Fort Gratiot, Lake Huron, damaging both vessels.

The 1882 Tragedy

Final Voyage On September 14, 1882, the Asia departed from Owen Sound, bound for French River, with approximately 123 passengers and crew, despite being licensed to carry only 40 passengers.  It was loaded with a mix of cargo, including steel supplies for railway bridges, likely for CPR construction in the north.

The Storm and Sinking

A violent storm struck Georgian Bay, with massive waves overwhelming the overloaded and unstable vessel. By noon, the Asia had taken on too much water and began to sink. Three lifeboats were launched, but only one remained afloat. Of the 18 people in the remaining lifeboat, seven drowned in repeated rollovers. By the time the boat reached an uninhabited island, only two survivors remained:

• Douglas Tinkis, 16
• Christie Ann Morrison, 19

Survival and Rescue

The two survivors endured harsh conditions until a First Nations couple in a rowboat rescued them on September 16and transported them to a house in Parry Sound on September 17. A Tugboat was dispatched to search for additional survivors, but only bodies were recovered over the following weeks.

Casualties

Estimated loss of 121 lives, including Captain John Savage and many passengers. Considered the worst ship disaster in Lake Huron history.

Final Disposition

The Asia was destroyed in the storm and sank in Georgian Bay. The exact location of the wreck remains unknown despite multiple search efforts.

Located By & Date Found

The wreck has not been located, though expeditions have focused on the waters off Byng Inlet and Lonely Island in northern Georgian Bay.

NOTMARs & Advisories

Unmarked site: Explorers and researchers are advised to approach the suspected areas with caution due to Georgian Bay’s unpredictable weather and rocky underwater terrain.

Legacy and Reforms

Stricter Passenger Limits: Enforcement of capacity regulations to prevent overloading. Improved Ship Designs: Enhanced stability and seaworthiness for vessels operating in open-lake conditions. The tragedy of the Asia prompted significant changes in Great Lakes shipping practices: Safety Regulations: Adoption of better lifeboat deployment systems and more rigorous crew training for emergencies.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: http://www.maritimehistoryofthegreatlakes.ca
• Grey Roots Museum and Archives: Preserves records and artifacts related to Lake Huron’s maritime history.
• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Provides detailed accounts of Great Lakes shipwrecks.
• Sweet Waters of the North: Explores the challenges and stories of Great Lakes navigation.

Conclusion

The sinking of the Asia is a haunting reminder of the risks and challenges faced by 19th-century Great Lakes mariners. Overcrowding, inadequate safety measures, and harsh lake conditions culminated in one of the deadliest shipwrecks in Lake Huron history. While the wreck remains undiscovered, the story of its survivors and victims continues to resonate, driving ongoing efforts to locate the ship and preserve its legacy.

Facebook Post 3 Jan 2025