Site Information: Wreck of the Wilma

•Vessel Name: Wilma

•Vessel Type: Tugboat

•Location: Port Dover, Lake Erie

•Coordinates: N 42°42.140’ W 080°02.068’

•Depth: 75 feet (22 meters)

•Dimensions:

•Original: 68 feet (20.7 meters) in length, 16 feet (4.9 meters) in width

•Post-Rebuild: 75 feet (22.9 meters) in length, 16 feet (4.9 meters) in width, 8 feet (2.4 meters) in depth

Vessel Type Description

The Wilma was a wooden-hulled Tugboat, launched in 1911 in Collingwood, Ontario. Known for its versatility, it was initially employed by the JA MacDonald and the Wilma Fish Co. Ltd for fishing operations. After its 1917 Rebuild, the vessel increased in size and operational efficiency, serving as a critical asset for its owners. Tugboats like the Wilma were essential workhorses on the Great Lakes, designed to navigate challenging conditions while towing or assisting other vessels.

History

The Wilma’s operational history spans over two decades. Built in 1911, the vessel was pivotal for the Wilma Fish Co. Ltd, undergoing significant upgrades in 1917 to extend its length and improve functionality. Ownership transferred to MacGraw MacDonald and the Wilma Fish Co. Ltd in 1934, continuing its legacy as a robust and reliable fishing Tug.

However, on April 14, 1936, tragedy struck. While operating in Lake Erie, the vessel encountered heavy ice conditions that punched out a plank near the boiler on the starboard side, causing it to sink. The wooden-hulled vessel was no match for the ice, and it met its untimely end, resting upright at the bothttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpg of the lake.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the Wilma lies upright in 75 feet (22 meters) of water near Port Dover. The site is typically marked by a buoy to aid in navigation and diving. The wreck’s features, including the stack lying along the port side, the boiler, and a forward hatch with a ladder leading below Deck, offer a compelling dive experience. However, divers should proceed with caution as fishing nets are known to be present around the wreck.

Highlights

•Key Features:

•The stack, located on the port side

•The boiler, still intact

•The forward hatch with a ladder leading below Deck

•Dive Accessibility:

•Resting at 75 feet, it is a manageable depth for divers with moderate experience.

•Clear orientation of the wreck offers easy exploration opportunities.

NOTMARs & Advisories

•The site is marked with a buoy for easy identification.

•Divers should be cautious of fishing nets and potential entanglement hazards around the wreck.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes

•Port Dover Diving Guides: Local guides offer organized dives to the site.

•Dive Logs and Wreck Reports: Check regional dive shops for additional insights and safety advice.

Tags

#LakeErieShipwreck #TugboatWilma #GreatLakesDiving #MaritimeHistory #PortDoverDiving

Conclusion

The Wilma, once a vital fishing Tug, now lies as a historical wreck in Lake Erie. Its tragic sinking in 1936 highlights the challenges faced by wooden-hulled vessels in harsh Great Lakes conditions. Today, the site offers divers a fascinating opportunity to explore the remains of a vessel that served the region’s fishing industry for over two decades. With its accessible depth and notable features, the wreck is a testament to the resilience and history of Great Lakes maritime activity.