Identification & Site Information

•Name: Raymond

•Type: Sailing Yacht

•Location: St. Lawrence River, near Round Island

•Coordinates: 44°15.542’N, 76°2.788’W

•Depth: Approximately 38 feet (11.6 meters)

•Date of Loss: 1925

•Condition: Extensively damaged by fire; lower Hull remains intact with auxiliary engine remnants and part of the mast.

Vessel Type Description

The Raymond was a sailing yacht of undetermined construction origin and date. The vessel featured an auxiliary engine to complement its sails, reflecting the dual propulsion systems often employed by yachts of the early 20th century. This design enabled versatility in navigating the often challenging conditions of the St. Lawrence River.

History

The sailing yacht Raymond met its demise in 1925, when it was severely damaged by fire. The flames reached the waterline, destroying much of the vessel above the Hull. Despite the extensive fire damage, the lower Hull, parts of the auxiliary engine, and a portion of the mast remained intact and were preserved under the water.

The wreck of the Raymond lies at the foot of Round Island, along the inside channel of the St. Lawrence River. This area is known for its complex underwater topography and historical significance, with numerous shipwrecks scattered along its course.

Discovery

In 1969, members of the Clayton Diving Club discovered the wreck of the Raymond while using dive planes to search for a War of 1812 gunboat rumored to be in the vicinity. Although their initial goal was to uncover historical military artifacts, the club stumbled upon the Raymond, adding to the rich maritime history of the St. Lawrence River.

Current Condition & Accessibility

•Condition: The Raymond is extensively damaged due to fire, with most of the structure above the waterline destroyed. The remaining lower Hull is intact, along with remnants of its auxiliary engine and part of the mast.

•Depth: The wreck rests at a manageable depth of 38 feet (11.6 meters), making it accessible to recreational divers.

•Accessibility: The site is relatively shallow and suitable for divers of various experience levels. Visibility in the area may vary depending on current and sediment conditions.

Significance of the Site

The Raymond wreck serves as a poignant reminder of the hazards faced by even small pleasure vessels on the waterways of the St. Lawrence River. Its discovery by chance highlights the region’s layered history, where stories of leisure, trade, and conflict intertwine beneath the surface.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the wreck of the Raymond. However, divers should exercise caution when exploring the site due to the potential for sharp debris and remnants of the engine.

Resources & Links

•Clayton Diving Club: Historical account of the Raymond discovery and other regional wrecks.

•Maritime History of the St. Lawrence River: Archival information about vessels lost in the St. Lawrence.

•Save Ontario Shipwrecks: Organization focused on the preservation and exploration of shipwrecks in Ontario waters.

•St. Lawrence River Historical Society: Resources on local shipwrecks and diving opportunities.

Keywords

•#RaymondYacht

•#SailingYacht

•#RoundIslandWreck

•#StLawrenceRiverShipwreck

•#ClaytonDivingClub

•#1925ShipLoss

•#AuxiliaryEngine

•#GreatLakesYachtingHistory

Conclusion

The wreck of the Raymond stands as a symbol of the dynamic history of the St. Lawrence River. While its story lacks the drama of large-scale maritime disasters, the yacht’s fiery demise and serendipitous rediscovery add depth to the narrative of the region’s waterways. Today, the Raymond provides a rewarding site for divers and history enthusiasts, offering insights into early 20th-century yacht design and the ever-present risks of fire and navigation on the water.