Wreck Report: Tug WAHNAPITAE / DICK T.

Identification & Site Information

• Original Name: WAHNAPITAE

• Later Name: DICK T.

• Vessel Type: Lumber Tug

• Built: Winter of 1904-05, Penetang, Ontario, by C. Beck Co., Limited

• Dimensions: Not specified

• Propulsion: Triple expansion engine, steam steering gear, wireless communication

• Ownership History:

• Keenan Towing Co., Owen Sound (1929)

• J.J. McFadden Lumber Co., Blind River

• Sorel Harbour Tugs, Limited, Sorel, Quebec

• Final Location: Windsor Cove, above Levis, Quebec (abandonment site)

Vessel Type Description

The WAHNAPITAE was a purpose-built lumber Tug designed for towing heavy log-rafts across Georgian Bay. With advanced features such as a triple expansion engine, steam steering gear, and wireless communication, the Tug was technologically ahead of its time. Its robust design allowed it to haul large quantities of timber, playing a crucial role in the lumber industry throughout its operational years.

History

Built during the winter of 1904-05 in Penetang, Ontario, the WAHNAPITAE initially served as a vital workhorse for towing log-rafts from Little Current across Georgian Bay. Over the decades, it changed ownership several times, continuing to serve the Canadian lumber industry:

1. Keenan Towing Co. (1929): Operated out of Owen Sound, towing barges loaded with logs.

2. J.J. McFadden Lumber Co.: Based in Blind River, the Tug transported white and red pine logs, contributing to the regional logging economy.

3. Sorel Harbour Tugs, Limited: The vessel was renamed DICK T. under this ownership.

The Tug met its unfortunate end on September 1, 1945, grounding at the northeast point of the entrance to Chaudiere Basin in Quebec during severe stormy weather. Despite being refloated, the vessel was deemed irreparable due to extensive damage.

Final Disposition

Post-grounding, the DICK T. was towed to Windsor Cove, above Levis, Quebec, on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, where it was Abandoned. The wreck lingered as a navigational obstruction near the west Breakwater in Cleveland, complicating marine activities. Despite its economic significance (insured for $20,000, with an additional $4,000 for freight), efforts to resolve the hazard were ultimately unsuccessful, and the wreck was left to deteriorate.

NOTMARs & Advisories

The WAHNAPITAE/DICK T. was recorded as a significant hazard to navigation, particularly near the west Breakwater in Cleveland. Mariners were advised to exercise caution in the vicinity, especially during its earlier years of abandonment.

Located By & Date

The final resting place of the wreck was recorded as Windsor Cove, above Levis, Quebec, following its abandonment after the September 1945 grounding incident.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Given the passage of time since its abandonment, the wreck is likely in a state of advanced natural deterioration. The site is not actively monitored and may pose minimal modern navigational risk due to its degradation.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database: Maritime History of the Great Lakes

Conclusion

The WAHNAPITAE, later renamed DICK T., played an essential role in Canada’s lumber industry before meeting its end in 1945. Its advanced technology and durability made it a significant asset during its operational years. Although Abandoned at Windsor Cove, its history serves as a reminder of the critical role lumber tugs played in shaping the economy of the Great Lakes region.

Keywords

• WAHNAPITAE

• DICK T.

• Lumber Tugboat

• Great Lakes wreck

• Georgian Bay

• Windsor Cove abandonment

• Maritime history