IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION
The Alva D was a small, wooden steam propeller tugboat constructed in 1909 by Charles Martin in Penetanguishene, Ontario. Designed for logging operations, the Alva D was a compact vessel with a length of 44 feet and a gross tonnage of 22 tons. Despite its small size, it played an essential role in the local logging industry, operating in the waters of Georgian Bay.
HISTORY
The Alva D was built and registered in 1909, making it a relatively new vessel when it met its demise. It was registered in Midland, Ontario, and was primarily used in logging operations in the Georgian Bay area. The vessel’s short operational history reflects the harsh and unpredictable nature of maritime activities in the Great Lakes region.
On August 22, 1909, while bound from Penetanguishene, Ontario, and engaged in logging operations, the Alva D ran aground on the rocks off Mink Rock in Georgian Bay. The grounding caused significant damage, and the vessel ultimately foundered, resulting in a total loss. The exact circumstances surrounding the incident, including any loss of life or cargo, are not detailed in the available records.
Following the wreck, ownership of the Alva D was transferred to Paul Dupuis of Midland, Ontario. In September 1909, just a month after the incident, the vessel was sold as a wreck to Mary Martin, the wife of its builder, Charles Martin. This transfer marked the end of the Alva D‘s brief but eventful history. The vessel’s documents were officially surrendered on April 23, 1910, confirming its permanent removal from active service.
FINAL DISPOSITION
The Alva D was declared a total loss after it ran aground and foundered on the rocks off Mink Rock in Georgian Bay, Lake Huron. The vessel’s remains were sold as a wreck to Mary Martin, and its registration was closed in 1910.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories specifically associated with the Alva D.
LOCATED BY & DATE
The wreck site of the Alva D has not been specifically documented or located based on available information.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY
Due to the lack of precise details regarding the wreck site, the condition and accessibility of the Alva D remain unknown. It is not considered a site of interest for diving or exploration.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
KEYWORDS: Alva D, Steam Propeller Tug, Logging Operations, Georgian Bay, Lake Huron, Shipwreck, Wooden Tug, Great Lakes, Maritime History
CONCLUSION: The Alva D serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by small vessels operating in the often treacherous waters of the Great Lakes. Despite its brief service life, the tug played a crucial role in the logging industry of the early 20th century. The circumstances of its loss highlight the inherent risks of maritime work in this region, where even well-built vessels like the Alva D could be quickly overwhelmed by the elements.
