Shipwreck Report: Unidentified Flat Top Barge

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Vessel Name: Unidentified Flat Top Barge

• Type: Barge

• Dimensions:

• Length: 100 feet (30.5 meters)

• Beam: 40 feet (12.2 meters)

• Construction: Steel or Wood (not explicitly identified)

• Deck Type: Flat Top

• Location: Lake Ontario

• Coordinates: Precise location not disclosed

• Depth: Not specified

• Discovery Method: Sonar exploration

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

Flat top barges are utility vessels designed for the transport of heavy cargo or equipment. They typically lack propulsion systems and rely on tugboats for movement. The flat top Deck offers versatility for various loads, making these barges essential for construction, material transport, and marine operations. In Lake Ontario, such barges were common during the 20th century, serving industrial and logistical purposes.

HISTORY

The flat top Barge discovered in Lake Ontario is believed to have been used for cargo or construction activities. Barges of this type often carried building materials, coal, or other heavy goods. Without a propulsion system, the Barge was likely towed between destinations and could have been part of larger logistical operations in the region.

The circumstances leading to the Barge’s submersion remain unknown. Potential causes could include:

• Storm Damage: Sudden weather changes on the Great Lakes often led to Barge sinkings.

• Overloading or Shifting Cargo: Improperly secured loads could destabilize a Barge, especially in rough waters.

• Intentional Scuttling: Many barges were Abandoned or scuttled when they became obsolete or too costly to maintain.

FINAL DISPOSITION

• The Barge rests at an unspecified depth in Lake Ontario.

• Its state of preservation is unknown but may provide clues about its usage and time of operation.

CURRENT STATUS

The site is primarily of interest to divers and researchers. Sonar imagery has confirmed its existence, but no detailed archaeological or historical surveys have been conducted to date.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with this wreck. However, mariners operating near wreck sites in Lake Ontario should exercise caution due to potential underwater hazards.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• Sonarguy Website: Provides sonar imaging and documentation of shipwrecks in Lake Ontario and other Great Lakes locations.

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Offers broader context about vessels and maritime operations in the region.

• Ontario Underwater Council: Promotes awareness of dive sites and safety protocols in Ontario waters.

CONCLUSION

The 100-foot by 40-foot flat top Barge in Lake Ontario adds to the growing list of submerged vessels in the Great Lakes. While its history and origin remain unknown, its presence underscores the importance of documenting industrial and logistical artifacts that shaped maritime activities in the region. Further exploration and research could uncover details about the Barge’s purpose and its final voyage.

KEYWORDS

Flat Top Barge, Lake Ontario Shipwreck, Sonar Discovery, Maritime History, Industrial Barge, Great Lakes Shipwreck.