IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION:
The CHINA was a wooden two-masted schooner built in 1863. Designed primarily for transporting coarse freights, the vessel was robustly constructed to withstand the demanding conditions of the Great Lakes. Schooners like the CHINA were common on the Great Lakes during the 19th century, playing a critical role in the transportation of goods across the region.
HISTORY:
Launched in 1863, the CHINA was a workhorse of the Great Lakes, frequently transporting goods across the waters of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay. The vessel underwent a major rebuild in 1865 by Shickluna, which increased its dimensions and enhanced its capabilities. Despite its sturdy construction, the CHINA was not immune to the dangers posed by the Great Lakes.
On November 20, 1883, the CHINA encountered a fierce snowstorm near Cape Hurd in Georgian Bay. The storm proved too powerful for the schooner, which became disabled and was eventually driven ashore. The vessel struck bottom and was wrecked on what is now known as “China Reef.” The CHINA was declared a total loss, though, fortunately, all crew members survived the ordeal.
Throughout its service life, the CHINA was owned by Moffatt or Thompson & Co. of Hamilton, Ontario. The vessel had experienced significant damage in October 1879 and underwent extensive repairs in 1882, just a year before its final voyage.
FINAL DISPOSITION:
The CHINA was wrecked on November 20, 1883, during a severe snowstorm in Georgian Bay. The schooner was driven ashore at China Reef, where it became a total loss. Despite the destruction of the vessel, no lives were lost in the incident. The wreck remains a popular dive site today, offering a glimpse into the maritime history of the Great Lakes.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES:
- Current Notices: There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the CHINA wreck site. Divers should always check with local authorities and maritime organizations before exploring the site to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
LOCATED BY & DATE:
- Discovery: The wreck of the CHINA is a well-known dive site in Georgian Bay. While the exact date of discovery is not documented, the site has been recognized and explored by divers for many years.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
- Cara Golden online
- Parks Canada
- The Mirror
- Great Lakes Ships
- History of the Great Lakes Vol 40
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
PICTURES:
(Include available historical images of the CHINA, photographs of the wreck site, or other related imagery if accessible.)
KEYWORDS:
CHINA, Georgian Bay, Lake Huron, Schooner, Shipwreck, Maritime History, China Reef, Great Lakes, 19th Century Shipping, Moffatt & Co.
CONCLUSION:
The wreck of the schooner CHINA in Georgian Bay is a poignant reminder of the treacherous conditions that ships and their crews faced on the Great Lakes. Despite its robust construction and a history of service, the CHINA was ultimately no match for the fierce snowstorm that led to its demise in 1883. Today, the remains of the CHINA serve as a fascinating dive site, allowing enthusiasts to explore a tangible piece of maritime history and reflect on the challenges of seafaring in the 19th century.
