History
In the early 20th century, the CHOCTAW, a propeller tug, was a familiar sight in the harbor of Port Stanley, Ontario. Built in 1911 in Collingwood, Ontario, this vessel had a wooden hull and measured 75 feet in length, 16.25 feet in width, and had a depth of 7.58 feet. With a gross tonnage of 53, the CHOCTAW was primarily used for packet and tug duties on Lake Erie.
Tragically, on January 20, 1923, the CHOCTAW met its fiery demise at its dock in Port Stanley. The exact cause of the fire is unclear, but the vessel was quickly engulfed in flames, leaving little chance for salvage or rescue. The loss of the CHOCTAW was a blow to the local maritime community and left a void in the harbor that was once filled with its familiar presence.
The details surrounding the loss of life and the cargo being carried by the CHOCTAW at the time of the fire are uncertain. It is believed that there were no fatalities, but the full extent of the damage and the circumstances of the incident remain shrouded in mystery.
The CHOCTAW destruction serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in maritime operations, even within the seemingly safe confines of a harbor. Fire, a constant threat on ships of all types, can spread rapidly and consume a vessel within minutes. The loss of the CHOCTAW highlights the need for constant vigilance and safety measures to prevent such incidents.
Despite its tragic end, the CHOCTAW remains a part of Port Stanley’s maritime history. Its memory lives on, a testament to the resilience of those who ply the waters of Lake Erie. The legacy of the CHOCTAW serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by mariners and the importance of preserving the stories of the vessels that have shaped our coastal communities.
External Links
- Heritage Port Stanley
- Marine Museum of the Great Lakes – Mills List
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
