Shipwreck Report: The Tiller Wreck

Identification & Site Information

• Type: Wooden Schooner
• Depth: 110 feet (33 meters)
• Length: 95 feet (29 meters)
• Location: Port Dalhousie, Lake Ontario
• Coordinates: N43°14.734’ W70°17.064’

History

The Tiller Wreck, initially thought to be the Henry Clay, is a well-preserved, unidentified wooden Schooner from the early 19th century. Its exact identity, origin, and circumstances of sinking remain a mystery despite thorough exploration and research. The name “Tiller Wreck” arises from its prominent and intact wooden tiller at the Stern, an unusual feature for vessels of this time, as many schooners had transitioned to ship wheels.

The wreck sits on its starboard side at the bottom of Lake Ontario, approximately 6 kilometers from Port Dalhousie. It features open cargo hatches that provide insight into its structure and potential usage, although the overhead environment and accumulated silt require careful exploration. The Schooner’s bowsprit is broken off, but the bow and Stern remain largely intact, showcasing intricate craftsmanship.

The Dive

Dive Conditions

• Depth: 110 feet (33 meters), suitable for advanced divers.

• Water Temperature: Rarely exceeds 50°F (10°C), requiring cold-water diving gear.

• Visibility: Ranges between 40 to 70 feet, providing excellent views under optimal conditions.

The wreck was discovered by Jim Garrington of Shark Marine while testing a sidescan sonar. Documented extensively by underwater archaeologists, including David Gilchrist, its identification as the Henry Clay was debunked, leaving its true identity unknown.

Features of the Dive

• Stern: The wooden tiller and rudder remain fixed, providing a unique insight into 19th-century steering mechanisms.

• Bow: While the bowsprit is missing, the bow itself is relatively intact, offering an impressive sight for divers.

• Cargo Hatches: Open but silted, these hatches invite exploration while presenting challenges due to potential hazards.

• Mooring: The wreck is protected by a mooring system, implemented by the Niagara Divers’ Association and other collaborators, to prevent anchor damage and preserve the site.

Analysis

The Tiller Wreck is an extraordinary dive site, appealing to both maritime historians and advanced divers. The intact tiller is an uncommon and historically significant feature, enhancing the site’s allure. As the vessel’s identity remains unknown, ongoing exploration and research are critical to unraveling its story.

Community-driven efforts, such as those by Len Rooney and the Niagara Divers Association, have played a crucial role in preserving this site. These measures ensure that the wreck remains accessible for study and enjoyment while safeguarding its structural integrity.

Resources & Links

• YouTube:
• Explore 3D models of the Tiller Wreck at 3DShipwrecks.org.
• Photography: Dan Lindsay – Sea-View Imaging Warren Lo Photography
• Niagara Divers: Mooring the wreck and site preservation updates.

3D Model of the Tiller

Tiller Wreck 2022 by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Port Dalhousie Tiller Wreck by Dan Lindsay on Sketchfab

Dive Information

• Vessel Type: Wooden Schooner
• Location: Port Dalhousie, Lake Ontario
• Depth: 110 feet (33 meters)
• Water Temperature: Cold (below 50°F/10°C)
• Visibility: Variable (40-70 feet)
• Historical Significance: High

Conclusion

The Tiller Wreck represents a captivating window into the maritime history of Lake Ontario. Its preserved state, unique features like the tiller, and unresolved identity contribute to its mystique and historical value. The site is a testament to community efforts to preserve underwater heritage, providing an enduring legacy for divers and historians to explore.