Site Identification

• Site Name: Unidentified Hull at Wolfe Island Graveyard

• Location: Wolfe Island Graveyard, St. Lawrence River, Ontario

• GPS Coordinates: 44°06.96976’N, 33°40.670’W

• Depth: Not specified (assumed shallow due to the nature of the graveyard site).

Site Description

The unidentified Hull is part of the Wolfe Island Graveyard, a notable underwater site in the St. Lawrence River that contains numerous shipwrecks and remnants of vessels from the 19th and early 20th centuries. This Hull, though largely intact, remains unidentified, offering a blend of mystery and historical intrigue. The absence of direct historical records or definitive structural features has hindered efforts to associate it with any specific ship.

History

Wolfe Island Graveyard Overview

The Wolfe Island Graveyard served as a natural repository for decommissioned, damaged, or wrecked ships during a time when the St. Lawrence River was a bustling maritime corridor. Many vessels were deliberately scuttled here, while others found their way due to accidents or storms.

Unidentified Hull

This Hull’s anonymity suggests it might belong to:

• A lesser-documented or small-scale commercial or fishing vessel.

• A ship lost without official reporting or detailed contemporary documentation.

• A derelict vessel scuttled in the graveyard as part of cleanup operations or for navigational safety.

While the lack of identifying features or historical references poses challenges, its location within the graveyard highlights the area’s importance as a maritime hub and a resting place for the region’s nautical past.

Final Disposition

The Hull rests partially buried in sediment at the Wolfe Island Graveyard, where it is relatively stable due to the protective environment of the site. The wooden construction is preserved to some extent, with minimal exposure to elements that could accelerate its deterioration.

Current Condition & Accessibility

• Condition:

The Hull is reported to be intact, though partially buried and covered with sediment. The condition is relatively stable for a wooden wreck of its age, but further assessment may reveal fragility in structural components.

• Accessibility:

Suitable for divers, with intermediate to advanced skills recommended due to potential challenges such as strong currents, cold water temperatures, and limited Visibility in the St. Lawrence River. The shallow depth likely makes the site accessible with standard diving equipment.

NOTMARs & Advisories

• No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) exist for this Hull, but the Wolfe Island Graveyard is known for:

• Strong currents that can challenge divers.

• Potential debris that poses entanglement risks.

Divers should exercise caution and follow best practices for wreck exploration in dynamic environments.

Located By & Date

The Hull was documented at the provided GPS coordinates. The date of discovery and the individual or group responsible remain unspecified. It is well-known among local divers and researchers, forming part of the broader Wolfe Island Graveyard network.

Resources & Links

1. Maritime History of the Great Lakes

A collection of records and references on Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River shipwrecks.

Maritime History of the Great Lakes

2. Wrecksite Database

Global database for shipwreck documentation and research.

Wrecksite Database

3. Save Ontario Shipwrecks (SOS)

Advocacy and resources for preserving and exploring Ontario’s underwater heritage.

Save Ontario Shipwrecks

4. Canadian Shipwreck Records

Archive of Canadian maritime incidents and wreck records.

Canadian Shipwreck Records

Key Features

• Unidentified Hull

• St. Lawrence River Shipwreck

• Wolfe Island Graveyard

• 19th Century Maritime History

• Great Lakes Wooden Hull

• Diving Site

Conclusion

The unidentified Hull at Wolfe Island Graveyard is a compelling piece of the St. Lawrence River’s maritime history. As part of a site rich with historical wrecks, it offers divers and historians a chance to explore and interpret the region’s nautical legacy. Its anonymity adds to its allure, providing opportunities for further research and potential discoveries that could shed light on the untold stories of the vessels that once navigated these waters.