History
The ASIA was a propeller ship built in 1873 by Simpson in St. Catharines, Ontario. It had dimensions of 144 feet in length, 26 feet in width, and 12 feet in depth, weighing 453 gross tons and 364 net tons. Owned by J. H. Beattie of Sarnia, Ontario, and chartered to the Great Northern Transportation Co., the ASIA primarily operated on its regular route from Collingwood to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, despite not being designed for open-lake service.
The ASIA had a history of mishaps and collisions throughout its career. In October 1873, the ship struck a rock bottom near the Port Colborne lighthouse, causing significant damage and sinking in the harbor. Although some attempts were made to raise and repair the vessel, the cargo of wheat it was carrying suffered extensive damage. In September 1875, the ASIA collided with the schooner LEVI RAWSON near Fort Gratiot on Lake Huron, resulting in damage to both vessels.
The most tragic incident involving the ASIA occurred on September 14, 1882, when the ship encountered a severe storm in Georgian Bay, near Byng Inlet. While navigating the rough waters, the ASIA was hit by a massive wave, causing it to become stranded off Lonely Island. Subsequent waves crushed the ship, leading to its ultimate destruction. Out of the 125 people on board, only two individuals survived the ordeal. A young crewman and a young woman passenger failed to secure spots in the overcrowded lifeboats and remained on the sinking ship. None of the other passengers and crew members who boarded the lifeboats managed to reach the shore.
Throughout its existence, the ASIA faced numerous challenges and suffered significant losses. Despite its regular operations on Lake Huron, the ship was ill-suited for open-lake service. It experienced multiple collisions, accidents, and even sank on several occasions. The sinking in 1882 marked the most devastating event in the ASIA’s history, with the loss of 123 lives out of the 125 people on board.
The ASIA’s legacy serves as a reminder of the perils faced by ships navigating the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. Its tragic fate stands as a testament to the unpredictable and treacherous nature of the waters, highlighting the importance of safety measures and proper vessel design in maritime transportation.
