Shipwreck Report: MATILDA

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

•Vessel Name: MATILDA

•Vessel Type: River Barge (later rigged as a Schooner)

•Dimensions:

•Length: 139.58 feet (42.5 meters)

•Capacity: 19,000 bushels

•Tonnage:

•Unit Tonnage: 337.08 tons

•Gross Tonnage: 309.25 tons

•Net Tonnage: 298.73 tons (as of 1866)

•Year Built: 1863

•Builder: J.B. Auger, Montreal, Quebec

•Final Location: Lake Huron, near Pine River on Lower Saginaw Bay

•Depth of Wreck: Not specified

•Coordinates: Not available in historical records

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The MATILDA began its life as a river Barge designed for bulk cargo, primarily in the lumber trade along the Richelieu River. Its significant capacity of 19,000 bushels made it suitable for transporting timber and agricultural goods. By 1884, the vessel had been rigged as a Schooner, enabling it to traverse the Great Lakes with improved efficiency and versatility, adapting to changing shipping needs.

HISTORY

Construction and Early Service

The MATILDA was launched in 1863 at Montreal by J.B. Auger for McLennan & Auger. Initially, it was used for cargo operations on the Richelieu River. In its early years, it was valued highly at $7,000 and received an “A” rating in 1864. However, by 1866, its condition had declined, and its value dropped to $3,500 with a reduced rating.

Transition to American Ownership

In January 1866, the MATILDA was sold to American owners and registered in U.S. ports, marking a new phase in its career. The Barge continued operating as a vital cargo transporter on the Great Lakes. Notable incidents included its sinking on October 13, 1866, from which it was salvaged and returned to service.

Between 1866 and 1886, the vessel was registered in Detroit, Milwaukee, and East Saginaw. It underwent significant modifications during this time, including being rigged as a Schooner by 1884. These changes enhanced its functionality for the demanding conditions of the Great Lakes.

FINAL DISPOSITION

On January 12, 1886, the MATILDA embarked on a voyage from Kelly’s Island, Ohio, to Saginaw, Michigan, carrying a mixed cargo of wine and coal. While navigating through Lower Saginaw Bay in Lake Huron, the vessel encountered severe ice conditions. Ice breached its Hull, causing the ship to take on water rapidly. The MATILDA sank near Pine River, marking the end of its 23-year career. There is no record of salvage or recovery of the vessel.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

•No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) exist for the MATILDA wreck.

•Divers and researchers should approach the site with caution due to potential hazards from deteriorated wreckage and ice damage.

LOCATED BY & DATE

The exact discovery details of the MATILDA’s wreck remain unknown. The site near Pine River in Lower Saginaw Bay has been identified in historical accounts but lacks precise coordinates or detailed exploration records.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

•The MATILDA’s wreckage likely remains submerged in Lake Huron, near Pine River.

•Due to its wooden construction and prolonged exposure to the elements, the wreck may be in a state of advanced deterioration.

•Accessibility for divers is unknown due to the absence of detailed depth and condition reports.

RESOURCES & LINKS

1.Alpena Public Library Great Lakes Maritime Database

2.Marine Museum of the Great Lakes: Canadian Ship Registers Online

3.Merchant Vessels of the United States (1886)

4.Mills Barges and Scows Before 1890 Collection

5.Milwaukee Public Library Great Lakes Marine Collection

CONCLUSION

The MATILDA exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of 19th-century Great Lakes vessels. From its origins as a river Barge in Canada to its transformation into a Schooner in American service, the ship reflects the dynamic nature of maritime commerce in the era. Its ultimate sinking in icy waters near Pine River underscores the challenges faced by sailors and the harsh conditions that defined Great Lakes navigation. Today, the MATILDA remains a historical artifact, offering insights into the evolving shipping industry of the 1800s.

KEYWORDS

•MATILDA

•Lake Huron

•Great Lakes Shipwreck

•River Barge

•Schooner Conversion

•Saginaw Bay Wreck

•19th Century Maritime History

•Ice Damage

•Shipwreck Diving