Identification & Site Information

• • Wreck Name: R.H. Rae
• • Type of Wreck: Schooner (originally a Barque)
• • Location: Main Duck Island, Lake Ontario
• • Coordinates: N 43° 53.035’ W 76° 50.515’
• • Dimensions: Length: 136 feet (41.5 meters) Beam: 23 feet (7 meters) Depth: 11 feet (3.4 meters)
• • Gross Tonnage: 344 tons

• Site Status: Submerged, accessible for public diving

The R.H. Rae, originally a three-masted wooden Barque, was known for its durability and adaptability, typical of 19th-century vessels. Built in 1857, it featured advanced shipbuilding techniques, including Cunningham’s patented self-reefing topsail and Iron Reinforcements at each mast. These innovations aimed to enhance its resilience in trans-Atlantic trade and endure the unpredictable conditions of the Great Lakes and open seas.

Vessel Construction and Design

Launched in October 1857, the R.H. Rae quickly achieved an A-1 classification—a prestigious indicator of quality and seaworthiness. Measuring 136 feet in length with a beam of 23 feet and depth of 11 feet, this vessel was designed for significant cargo capacity, with a Gross Tonnage of 344 tons.

Notable design features included:

• Split Rudder System: An advanced feature for better maneuverability.

• Iron Reinforcements: Ensured greater structural strength.

These features made the R.H. Rae a robust and capable cargo ship, embodying the peak of 19th-century maritime engineering and craftsmanship.

The Final Voyage

In August 1858, less than a year after its launch, the R.H. Rae set sail on its last voyage. Laden with wheat for Montreal, the ship encountered a fierce storm near Duck’s Creek, Lake Ontario. Despite its innovative design, the vessel succumbed to the storm and capsized. Fortunately, the crew survived, thanks to a timely rescue by the Steamer COLONIST, but the R.H. Rae was lost to the depths of Lake Ontario.

Salvage Attempts and Rediscovery

After an unsuccessful salvage attempt in 1859, the R.H. Rae remained undisturbed for over a century. It was initially located in 1976 by Barb Carson but was rediscovered in 1996 by the Ducks Dive team, led by Chris Kohl.

Today, the wreck lies at 90 feet underwater, with its Hull, bow, and distinctive split rudder still intact. Divers can view historical artifacts scattered around the site, including blocks, deadeyes, and various tools, creating a tangible link to the ship’s storied past.

Final Disposition

The R.H. Rae remains a well-preserved relic of 19th-century maritime history, accessible to divers and historians. Its structure and artifacts serve as poignant reminders of the challenges ships and sailors faced on the Great Lakes.

NOTMARs & Advisories

• Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs): There are no specific notices regarding the R.H. Rae wreck. Divers planning to explore the site should check the latest maritime advisories and weather conditions for safe diving.

Located By & Date

• Discovery: 1976 by Barb Carson; rediscovered in 1996 by the Ducks Dive team (led by Chris Kohl)

References and Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: [Link to resource]
• Chris Kohl’s “Great Lakes Shipwrecks and Survivals”: Contains detailed shipwreck accounts, including the R.H. Rae.

Conclusion

The R.H. Rae offers a rare and valuable glimpse into 19th-century maritime history. The ship’s advanced design and the tragic conditions of its final voyage provide important insights into the rigors of early Great Lakes navigation. Today, the site is a popular spot for recreational divers, who can experience a well-preserved piece of history firsthand.

Keywords: R.H. Rae, Schooner, Barque, Lake Ontario Shipwreck, Main Duck Island, 1858 Shipwreck, Maritime History, Public Diving Site, Cunningham Topsail