MAGNOLIA (later LUCKPORT)

• Type: Tug (Towboat)
• Lengths: 136 ft (41.5 m)
• Beam: 21.4 ft (6.5 m)
• Depth: 13.7 ft (4.2 m)
• Gross Tonnage: 367 tons
• Net Tonnage: 191 tons
• Location: Off Kettle’s Beach, near Sawlog Point, Georgian Bay, Lake Huron
• IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
• • Original Name: Magnolia
• • Later Name: Luckport
• • Construction:
• • Builder: Unknown, built in Midland, Ontario
• • Year Built: 1898
• • Material: Wooden Hull with two decks
• • Propulsion:
• • Steeple compound engine with two cylinders (20” and 36” diameter, 30” stroke)
• • Single propeller powered by a Scotch boiler (11’ x 10’) operating at 100 psi
• • Engine manufactured by Beckwith Engine Co., Hamilton, Ontario

• Ownership History:

• • 1898–1919: Midland Towing & Wrecking Co., Midland, Ontario
• • 1919: Rebuilt and renamed Luckport
• • 1920: Acquired by Canada Steamship Lines
• • 1930: Abandoned

HISTORY

Magnolia (1898–1919):

The Magnolia began its career as a robust Tugboat servicing the Georgian Bay and surrounding Great Lakes. Operated by the Midland Towing & Wrecking Co., it played a critical role in towing and salvage operations in the region.

Luckport (1919–1930):

• Rebuild and Renaming (1919):

• The vessel underwent significant reconstruction and was renamed Luckport.

• Continued operation under Canada Steamship Lines starting in 1920.

• Abandonment (1930):

• By 1930, the vessel was retired from active service, marking the beginning of its decline.

Final Fate (1934):

• In December 1934, the Luckport was dismantled and burned at Midland, Ontario.

• Although intentionally destroyed, remnants of the vessel were left to rest in the shallow waters off Kettle’s Beach, near Sawlog Point.

FINAL DISPOSITION

• Condition: The wreck of the Magnolia consists mainly of bottom timbers, visible in shallow water off Kettle’s Beach.

• Accessibility:

• Public access from the beach at Tomahawk Crescent.

• Approximately a 10-minute swim due north from shore.

• Visibility: Generally good, though wind and waves can impact conditions.

DIVE NOTES

• Depth: Shallow, making the site accessible for snorkelers and beginner divers.

• Site Features:

• Remaining timbers of the vessel’s Hull structure.

• The site offers a historical connection to Georgian Bay’s maritime legacy, despite limited physical remains.

• Safety Tips:

• Monitor weather conditions as the shallow location is exposed to wind and waves.

• Use a dive flag to alert boaters to your presence.

SIGNIFICANCE

The Magnolia/Luckport exemplifies the working vessels that played pivotal roles in the Great Lakes’ industrial and maritime history. Though its final years ended in abandonment and dismantling, its remnants serve as a lasting testament to the era of wooden-hulled tugs and their contributions to Great Lakes commerce and navigation.

REFERENCES & LINKS

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• David Swayze Shipwreck File

• Historical records from Canada Steamship Lines archives.

This report preserves the history and legacy of the Magnolia/Luckport while providing practical details for divers and maritime enthusiasts.