IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The Kinghorn was an iron-hulled barge built in 1871 in Montreal, Quebec, from a frame constructed by the London and Glasgow Engineering and Iron Ship Building Co. Ltd. in Scotland. This type of vessel was primarily used to transport bulk cargoes like grain across the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. The barge measured 131.0 feet (40 meters) in length, 24.8 feet (7.6 meters) in beam, and 9.8 feet (3 meters) in depth, with a registered tonnage of 303 tons. Owned by the Montreal Transportation Company, the Kinghorn played a significant role in the grain trade.
HISTORY: #
The Kinghorn was first registered in Montreal in 1871 and was actively engaged in the grain trade, carrying wheat and other bulk goods between ports on the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. On April 26, 1897, the Kinghorn was part of a tow led by the tug James A. Walker when it encountered a severe storm in the St. Lawrence River near Rockport, Ontario.
Despite the crew’s efforts to save the vessel, the Kinghorn began taking on water and eventually sank in 100 feet of water. The exact details of the sinking have some variations in historical accounts, but it is generally agreed that the storm and subsequent grounding led to the barge’s demise.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
The wreck of the Kinghorn remains well-preserved on the riverbed, making it a popular dive site in the Thousand Islands region. The iron hull is still intact, and divers can explore the structure, which offers a unique glimpse into 19th-century shipbuilding. The site is known for its accessibility and clear waters, though divers should be aware of strong currents in the area.
The Kinghorn was officially removed from the Canadian register on February 9, 1915, nearly two decades after it sank.
NOTMARs & Advisories: #
Divers intending to explore the Kinghorn should consult current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or local advisories, as the wreck is located in a busy waterway. The presence of strong currents in the area means that proper precautions, including the use of dive flags, are essential for safety.
Resources & Links: #
- The Scuba News – Kinghorn Wreck
- Thousand Islands Life – Kinghorn
- Great Lakes Shipwrecks Database
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes – News Archive
The Kinghorn remains a significant part of Great Lakes maritime history, both for its historical importance and as an accessible and intriguing dive site. This overview combines historical records with recent diving information, offering a comprehensive account of the vessel’s story.
