Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: CITY OF LONDON

• Type: Wooden Propeller-Driven Freighter

• Built: 1866, by L. Shickluna, St. Catharines, Ontario

• Dimensions:

• Length: 145 feet (44.2 meters)

• Beam: 27 feet (8.2 meters)

• Depth: 12 feet (3.7 meters)

• Gross Tonnage: 440 tons

• Net Tonnage: 307 tons

• Last Port of Registry: Port Stanley, Ontario

• Final Voyage Date: August 20, 1874

• Final Disposition: Destroyed by fire in Collins Inlet, Georgian Bay, Lake Huron

Vessel Type Description

The CITY OF LONDON was a wooden-hulled, propeller-driven freighter designed for both passenger and cargo transport. Built by renowned shipbuilder L. Shickluna in St. Catharines, Ontario, the vessel was a critical component of the growing maritime trade network in Georgian Bay and Lake Huron. Its robust design allowed it to withstand the challenging conditions of the Great Lakes while servicing routes between key ports such as Chicago and Collingwood.

History

The CITY OF LONDON had a notable service history:

• 1866-1874: Operated primarily in the Great Lakes, initially owned by the Northern Transportation Co. and later by the North Shore Transportation Co. and the Canadian Lake Superior Transit Co.

• Primary Routes: Regularly sailed between Chicago and Collingwood, carrying both passengers and commercial goods.

• Final Voyage: On August 20, 1874, while navigating through Collins Inlet, Georgian Bay, the vessel was engulfed by a catastrophic fire.

• The ship, valued at $25,000, was completely destroyed.

• A deckhand, Campbell, tragically perished, while passengers narrowly escaped with their lives, though all belongings were lost.

Final Disposition

After the fire:

1. Hull Salvage: The wrecked Hull was raised and towed to Owen Sound by the wrecking Tug MARY ANN.

2. Engine Salvage: The vessel’s engine, a 30×36 steam engine built by G. N. Oill, was salvaged and installed in another vessel, the CITY OF OWEN SOUND.

3. Ownership Transfer: The Hull was sold to Smith & Wyatt of Toronto, with plans for reconstruction.

4. Uncertain Reconstruction: It is unclear whether the rebuilding was completed, leaving the ultimate fate of the Hull unknown.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the wreck of the CITY OF LONDON.

Located By & Date

The wreck of the CITY OF LONDON was located immediately after the fire in Collins Inlet, Georgian Bay, and salvaged shortly thereafter.

Current Condition & Accessibility

• Original Wreck Site: Likely contains minimal remnants, as the Hull was raised and removed.

• Potential Locations for Exploration:

• Waters near Owen Sound, where the Hull was taken for reconstruction.

• Areas surrounding local Shipyards or salvage sites tied to Smith & Wyatt of Toronto.

Resources & Links

• David Swayze Shipwreck File

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

Tags

• Great Lakes Shipwreck

• CITY OF LONDON

• Georgian Bay Shipwreck

• 19th Century Maritime History

• Propeller-Driven Freighter

• Ship Fire

• Wreck Salvage

• Canadian Lake Superior Transit Co.

Conclusion

The CITY OF LONDON was a vital freighter in the 19th-century Great Lakes maritime trade, reflecting both the economic importance and inherent dangers of shipping during this era. Its destruction by fire in 1874 near Collins Inlet highlights the risks faced by wooden vessels and their crews. While the Hull was salvaged and attempts at reconstruction were made, the vessel’s ultimate fate remains uncertain. Its story is a testament to the resilience and innovation of the Great Lakes maritime community during one of the most transformative periods in the region’s history.

Diving Notes & Recommendations

Given that the CITY OF LONDON was salvaged and removed, its original wreck site in Collins Inlet likely holds little significance for diving. Explorers interested in the vessel’s history may investigate records and locations around Owen Sound or consult archives for leads on the potential reconstruction or abandonment of the Hull. As always, divers should prioritize safety and respect the historical value of any related sites.