Shipwreck Report: Advance (Formerly Sir S.L. Tilley)

Identification & Site Information

• Name: Advance (formerly Sir S.L. Tilley)
• Type: Composite Steam Barge / Package Freighter / Bulk Carrier
• Build Date: May 8, 1884
• Builder: L. Shickluna, St. Catharines, Ontario
• Final Location: Not precisely known, but final incidents occurred on Lake Ontario, including fire damage and grounding events.
• Coordinates: Specific wreck location not documented.

Vessel Type Description

The Advance was a versatile composite steam Barge initially constructed with an iron frame and wooden Hull. Designed as a package freighter, it underwent multiple transformations to adapt to changing needs in maritime trade. By 1904, it became a Bulk Carrier with a capacity for carrying significant loads, including wheat and Pig Iron. These changes highlight the adaptability of Great Lakes vessels to evolving transportation demands.

History

Originally launched in 1884 as the Sir S.L. Tilley, this vessel served in the Merchant’s Lake and River Steamship Co. Line, connecting ports like Duluth, Minnesota, and other key destinations. Throughout its life, the Advance faced multiple ownership changes, reconstructions, and incidents, reflecting the challenges of Great Lakes navigation during its operational years.

Key Historical Events:

• Collision (1889): The vessel collided with a lighthouse at the mouth of the Detroit River.
• Fire and Grounding (1899): Caught fire and grounded off Fairport, Ohio. It was Abandoned but later Rebuilt in Toronto between 1899 and 1900.
• Coal Fire (1903): A coal cargo ignited, causing extensive damage in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. The Hull was salvaged and converted into a Bulk Carrier.
• Collision (1916): Engaged in a three-way collision in the Lachine Canal but was repaired and returned to service.
• Rudder Break (1909): Broke its rudder and grounded while carrying Pig Iron in the St. Lawrence River.
• Abandonment (1923): After unsuccessful attempts to sell the vessel, it was transferred to Reid Wrecking of Sarnia, Ontario.

Final Disposition

The Advance faced repeated fires, groundings, and collisions, which cumulatively diminished its viability. After being transferred to Canada Steamship Lines and Reid Wrecking, the vessel was ultimately Abandoned. Specific details about its final resting place or scrapping are unclear, though it played a significant role in Great Lakes commerce during its operational life.

External Links

• David Swayze Shipwreck File Source of detailed shipwreck data for Great Lakes vessels.
• Great Lakes Ship Offers a comprehensive collection of ship histories and incidents.
• Bowling Green State University Great Lakes Maritime Collection

Archival resource for Great Lakes shipping history.

Conclusion

The Advance, formerly the Sir S.L. Tilley, illustrates the dynamic history of Great Lakes shipping, with its multiple rebuilds and operational changes reflecting the adaptability of vessels during this era. Despite its eventual abandonment, the ship remains a testament to the resilience of Great Lakes maritime commerce and the challenges posed by environmental and logistical hazards. Its history enriches the tapestry of North American shipping and maritime legacy.

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