Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Names: Maggie R (Tugboat) and Hamilton (Steambarge)

•Location: West Lake, Prince Edward County, Ontario

•Depth: Not specified, removed in September 2022

•Coordinates: Undisclosed

•Condition: Both vessels were removed by the Government of Canada in 2022 as part of a cleanup operation.

Vessel Type Description

Maggie R (Tugboat):

The Maggie R, built in 1907, was a classic Tugboat designed for towing, dredging, and ice-clearing operations. Tugboats like the Maggie Rwere instrumental in supporting the bustling maritime activities of the Great Lakes, characterized by their compact, robust design capable of enduring challenging conditions.

Hamilton (Steambarge):

Constructed in 1891, the Hamilton was a steam-powered Barge used to transport bulk goods such as grain and coal across the Great Lakes. Its sturdy design and reliable steam propulsion made it a vital asset in the late 19th and early 20th-century trade networks, aiding the economic expansion of the region.

History

Maggie R:

The Maggie R had a long operational history on the Great Lakes, serving various roles from towing to dredging. Its longevity underscores its utility and the adaptability of tugboats to the evolving maritime industry of the 20th century.

Hamilton:

The Hamilton was part of the industrial boom of the Great Lakes, moving essential commodities across waterways. Like many steam barges of its era, the vessel was a backbone of commerce, facilitating the transport of goods vital to regional development.

Final Disposition

By the mid-20th century, both vessels were Abandoned and left to deteriorate in West Lake. In September 2022, the Canadian government dredged the Maggie R, the Hamilton, and an unidentified Barge as part of efforts to clear derelict vessels. This initiative aimed to address environmental concerns and improve safety for lake users.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Both vessels were removed from West Lake in 2022 and are no longer available for diving or exploration. The dredging process was documented, emphasizing the technical and logistical challenges of handling historical wrecks in small inland water bodies.

Legacy and Historical Significance

The removal of the Maggie R and Hamilton signifies the end of these vessels’ physical presence, yet their legacy remains entrenched in Great Lakes maritime history. Their decades of service reflect the industrial and economic activities that shaped the region. The cleanup operation highlights the balance between preserving historical artifacts and maintaining environmental and navigational safety.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Link

•Government of Canada: Dredging Operations: Link

•West Lake Heritage and Maritime Society: Link

Conclusion

The Maggie R and Hamilton epihttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpgize the working vessels of the Great Lakes during their operational lifetimes. While their removal marks the loss of physical artifacts, the stories and historical significance of these vessels endure, offering valuable insights into the industrial history of the region.

Keywords

•#Tugboat

•#Steambarge

•#WestLake

•#Shipwreck

•#MaggieR

•#Hamilton

•#CanadianMaritimeHistory

•#PrinceEdwardCounty

•#EnvironmentalCleanup

•#GreatLakesTrade