IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: The FREDDIE ADAMS was a small wooden propeller tug, built for towing and general work on the Great Lakes. With a modest length of 40 feet, it was designed to handle light towing duties and was typical of the working vessels that supported larger ships and harbor operations during the early 20th century. The vessel’s compact size and wooden construction were well-suited for its intended role in the busy waters around Parry Sound.
HISTORY: The FREDDIE ADAMS was constructed in 1906 by G. Adams in Parry Sound, Ontario. This propeller tug served in the waters of Lake Huron, primarily operating around Parry Sound. The vessel was named after its builder, likely indicating a personal or familial connection to the vessel.
Despite its seemingly routine service, the FREDDIE ADAMS‘ operational history was cut short by a tragic event in 1909. The tug caught fire at Depot Harbour, located on the eastern shore of Parry Sound. The fire resulted in the complete destruction of the vessel, though the exact details of the incident, including the date and circumstances, remain unknown. There is no information available on whether there were any casualties in the fire.
Following the destruction of the FREDDIE ADAMS, its registration remained active for some time, but it was officially closed on September 13, 1920. This closure indicates that the vessel was no longer in service, likely due to the total loss it suffered in the fire.
FINAL DISPOSITION: The FREDDIE ADAMS was completely destroyed by fire in 1909 at Depot Harbour, Parry Sound. Given the extent of the destruction, it is unlikely that any significant remains of the vessel exist today. The exact location of the wreck has not been documented, and the site likely does not attract attention for diving or exploration due to the total loss suffered by the vessel.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories currently associated with the wreck of the FREDDIE ADAMS.
LOCATED BY & DATE: The wreck site of the FREDDIE ADAMS has not been specifically located, and no documented recovery or exploration efforts have been made.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY: Given that the FREDDIE ADAMS was completely destroyed by fire, there is likely little to no physical evidence of the vessel remaining at the wreck site. The location at Depot Harbour may be of interest to historians, but it is not likely a site for diving or exploration due to the extent of the destruction.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
KEYWORDS: FREDDIE ADAMS, Propeller Tug, Parry Sound, Lake Huron, Shipwreck, Wooden Tug, Great Lakes, Maritime History, Depot Harbour
CONCLUSION: The FREDDIE ADAMS represents one of the many working vessels that operated on the Great Lakes during the early 20th century. While it served its purpose effectively, its untimely end in a fire at Depot Harbour reminds us of the perils faced by even the smallest of vessels. The lack of detailed records on the incident leaves the story of the FREDDIE ADAMS incomplete, but it continues to be a part of the rich tapestry of Great Lakes maritime history.
