SHIPWRECK REPORT: ANCASTER

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

•Vessel Name: Ancaster

•Year Built: Late 1940s

•Builder: Russel Bros.

•Type: Steel-Hulled Tugboat

•Hull Material: Steel

•Number of Decks: 1

•Original Owner: E. B. Eddy Forest Products

•Final Location: Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum, Owen Sound, Ontario

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The Ancaster was a Tugboat purpose-built for log transportation. Constructed by Russel Bros., the vessel was specifically designed for the challenges of towing logs along the Ottawa River. With its steel Hull and reinforced design, the Ancaster was well-suited for the rigorous demands of the Canadian lumber industry.

HISTORY

The Ancaster served as a workhorse for E. B. Eddy Forest Products, transporting logs from the Ottawa River to their processing facility in Ottawa. Its robust build allowed it to endure the challenging conditions of log towing while contributing significantly to the region’s lumber industry.

Significant Events:

•Sinking at Chaudière Falls (1979):

After years of dependable service, the Ancaster sank unexpectedly at the foot of Chaudière Falls, bringing its operational life to an abrupt end.

•Restoration (1982):

Ontario Hydro recognized the historical value of the Ancaster and undertook its restoration to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Rideau Canal Floating Parade. Over two months, 15 volunteers from Ontario Hydro restored the vessel at a cost of only $1,700. Key restoration efforts included:

•Reinforcing the steel Hull

•Rebuilding the cabin

•Repairing the two-cylinder engine

•Installing a new pressure-treated hemlock Deck

The restored Ancaster proved seaworthy and successfully floated in Mooney’s Bay before participating in the Rideau Canal anniversary flotilla.

•Preservation:

Following its participation in the celebrations, the Ancaster was displayed at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa until May 23, 1982. In 1991, it was permanently relocated to the Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum, where it remains an important exhibit.

Cultural Significance:

The Ancaster is famously depicted on the reverse of Canada’s last paper one-dollar bill, solidifying its status as an iconic piece of Canadian heritage.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The Ancaster is preserved at the Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum, serving as a testament to Canada’s rich maritime and industrial history.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) concerning the Ancaster.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

The vessel is in excellent preserved condition, displayed as a static exhibit at the Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum. Its accessibility allows visitors to engage with a tangible piece of Canadian maritime history.

RESOURCES & LINKS

•Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum: Visit the Museum

•Russel Bros. Tugboats Archive: Explore Tugboat Histories

CONCLUSION

The Ancaster stands as a unique and enduring symbol of Canada’s maritime heritage. Its journey from a functional Tugboat in the lumber industry to a celebrated exhibit showcases its resilience and cultural importance. Restored through dedicated volunteer efforts, the vessel now preserves the memory of Canada’s industrial past and offers visitors a glimpse into the vital role of tugboats in the country’s development.

Keywords:

Ancaster, Tugboat, E. B. Eddy Forest Products, Russel Bros., Ottawa River, Chaudière Falls, Owen Sound Museum, Canadian maritime history, Rideau Canal Anniversary, Canadian dollar bill.