Identification & Site Information:

•Name: TOM FAWCETT (later known as WOLFE ISLANDER)

•Type: Car Ferry (Sidewheeler)

•Built: At Bertram’s yard, Toronto, Ontario

•Dimensions:

•Length: 118.6 feet (36.1 meters)

•Beam: 17.7 feet (5.4 meters)

•Depth: 6.8 feet (2.1 meters)

•Tonnage:

•Gross: 224 tons

•Net: 98 tons

•Final Location: Horne Point, Wolfe Island, St. Lawrence River

•Coordinates: 44°08’32.3”N 76°21’58.9”W

•Water Depth: 10–15 feet (3–4.6 meters)

Vessel Type Description

The TOM FAWCETT, later renamed WOLFE ISLANDER, was a wooden sidewheeler car Ferry designed to meet Wolfe Island’s transportation needs. Its open main Deck provided ample space for goods, livestock, and eventually vehicles, while the enclosed cabin and promenade upper Deck accommodated passengers. The Ferry’s design was utilitarian, with a simple structure and a distinctive smokestack.

Site Orientation

The WOLFE ISLANDER lies on the riverbed near Horne Point, Wolfe Island, in the St. Lawrence River. The wreck is oriented with its remains facing the river current, scattered across the shallow and clear waters. The site’s accessibility makes it a popular location for divers and snorkelers.

History

Built in 1904 at Bertram’s yard in Toronto, the TOM FAWCETT was constructed for the Corporation of the Township of Wolfe Island. After trials and a maiden voyage to Kingston, it began regular Ferry service on July 1, 1904, under Captain James Crawford.

Renamed WOLFE ISLANDER in 1905, the vessel served Wolfe Island for 42 years, becoming a vital part of the community’s daily life. The Ferry was known for its practicality, accommodating passengers, goods, and later vehicles. Ownership eventually passed to the provincial government’s Department of Highways, which adapted its schedule to meet the growing demand.

The WOLFE ISLANDER made her final trip on Dominion Day, retiring after decades of reliable service. The Ferry was Abandoned near Horne Point, where it now lies.

Final Disposition

Retired and Abandoned in shallow water near Horne Point, the remains of the WOLFE ISLANDER serve as a reminder of the region’s rich maritime history. Though worn and scattered, the wreck is still an accessible and informative dive site.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck lies in shallow waters of 10–15 feet (3–4.6 meters), making it easily accessible for divers and snorkelers. The clear waters and scattered remains offer an excellent opportunity to explore a tangible piece of Wolfe Island’s history.

Resources & Links

•Toronto Marine Historical Society’s Scanner: Complete historical details in “Ship of the Month No. 82”

•Public Domain Pictures: Images of the WOLFE ISLANDER throughout its operational history

•Preserve Our Wrecks Kingston: https://www.powkingston.org

Tags:

#GreatLakesShipwrecks #StLawrenceRiver #Sidewheeler #WolfeIslandFerry #MaritimeHistory #ShipwreckExploration

Conclusion

The WOLFE ISLANDER played a vital role in connecting Wolfe Island to the mainland, facilitating the movement of people and goods for over four decades. Its final resting place near Horne Point provides a unique glimpse into the early 20th-century Ferry operations and remains a cherished site for divers and history enthusiasts exploring the St. Lawrence River.