MATILDA U50517

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Identification & Site Information #

Vessel Name: MATILDA
Vessel Type: River Barge (later rigged as a schooner)
Dimensions: 139.58 feet in length, 19,000 bushels capacity
Tonnage: 337.08 tons unit tonnage (309.25 gross tons, 298.73 net tons by 1866)
Built: 1863, by J.B. Auger in Montreal
Final Location: Lake Huron, near Pine River on Lower Saginaw Bay
Depth of Wreck: Exact depth not specified
Coordinates: Not specified in the historical records

Vessel Type Description #

The MATILDA began its life as a river barge, primarily operating on the Richelieu River. It was a sizable vessel with a capacity of 19,000 bushels, making it well-suited for the lumber trade, which was its likely primary use. The barge had a round stern and was initially outfitted with one mast. By 1884, the MATILDA had undergone significant changes, including being rigged as a schooner, which allowed it to navigate the Great Lakes more effectively.

History #

The MATILDA was built in 1863 in Montreal by J.B. Auger and was initially owned by McLennan & Auger. It primarily operated on the Richelieu River, where it was likely engaged in transporting lumber. Rated “A” in 1864 and valued at $7,000, the barge was a valuable asset. However, by 1866, its condition had deteriorated, and its value decreased to $3,500, reflected in its lowered rating to “1.”

In January 1866, the MATILDA was sold to an American owner, leading to its removal from the Canadian register. Despite the change in ownership, the vessel retained its original name and continued to serve in American waters. The MATILDA was involved in a notable incident on October 13, 1866, when it sank but was subsequently raised, allowing it to continue its service.

The MATILDA was registered in various American ports, including Detroit in 1871, Milwaukee in 1875, and East Saginaw, Michigan, from 1879 to 1886. During this time, the barge was modified and rigged as a schooner, which suggests that it was adapted to meet the changing demands of cargo transportation on the Great Lakes.

Final Disposition #

The final chapter in the MATILDA’s story occurred on January 12, 1886, during a voyage from Kelly’s Island, Ohio, to Saginaw. The vessel was carrying a cargo of wine and coal when it encountered ice, which cut into its hull. The MATILDA sank in Lake Huron near Pine River on Lower Saginaw Bay. This event marked the end of the vessel’s service, with no record of it being salvaged after this final sinking.

NOTMARs & Advisories #

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the wreck of the MATILDA. Divers should be aware of general safety advisories when exploring wrecks in the Great Lakes, particularly regarding potential hazards like entanglement in wreckage or unstable conditions due to ice damage.

Located By & Date #

There are no specific details about when or by whom the wreck of the MATILDA was discovered. The vessel’s final resting place in Lake Huron near Pine River remains a point of interest for maritime historians and divers.

Resources & Links #

Conclusion #

The MATILDA’s history reflects the evolution and challenges of maritime commerce in the 19th century, particularly on the Great Lakes. From its beginnings as a river barge in Canada to its later life as a schooner in American waters, the vessel’s journey was marked by multiple changes in ownership, modifications, and incidents that eventually led to its sinking in Lake Huron. The MATILDA’s story is a testament to the rugged endurance of the ships and crews that navigated the often treacherous waters of the Great Lakes, and it remains a subject of interest for historians and divers alike.