1. IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
2. VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Acadia was a two-deck propeller vessel with a composite hull, constructed in 1867 by John Malcolmson in Hamilton, Ontario. The vessel featured a combination of materials—likely wood and iron—for its hull. It was powered by a low-pressure condensing engine built by Beckett & Co. of Hamilton, Ontario. The engine had a single cylinder with dimensions of 32 x 32 inches, producing 87 horsepower. The Acadia was initially built with a length of 136 feet (41.5 meters), a beam of 27 feet (8.2 meters), and a depth of 7 feet (2.1 meters), with a gross tonnage of 339 and a net tonnage of 217.
In 1882, the Acadia was lengthened, increasing its dimensions to 177 feet (53.9 meters) in length, 26 feet (7.9 meters) in beam, and 12.3 feet (3.7 meters) in depth. This modification also increased its gross tonnage to 806 tons and its net tonnage to 471 tons.
3. HISTORY #
The Acadia was built in 1867 by John Malcolmson for the Malcolmson Brothers, who were its original owners. The vessel served various roles throughout its operational life, including delivering oil and supplies to Canadian Lake Lighthouses in 1868 under a charter by the Dominion Government. In 1871, it was recorded as having iron frames, a detail that reflected its composite hull construction.
The Acadia underwent several changes in ownership over the years. By 1877, it was owned by Elizabeth Malcolmson of Hamilton, followed by Margaret Sutherland in 1878, and later John W. and Donald G. Sutherland of St. Thomas in 1880. The vessel was re-measured in 1877, with its dimensions adjusted to 135.8 x 24.6 x 7.0 feet, and its gross tonnage updated to 372.39 tons.
In 1882, the Acadia underwent significant repairs and lengthening, which altered its dimensions and tonnage. The vessel’s increased size allowed it to carry more cargo, making it a more valuable asset for its owners. The ship was rebuilt in 1887 at a cost of $7,000, further extending its operational life.
However, the Acadia’s service came to a tragic end on November 4, 1896. While sailing on Lake Superior, the vessel went missing, nine days overdue, and was feared lost. The Acadia ran aground near the Michipicoten River, and although the crew of seventeen managed to reach the shore, the vessel was declared a total loss. The wreck was abandoned, and the ship’s registry was officially closed on December 17, 1911.
4. FINAL DISPOSITION #
The Acadia was lost on November 4, 1896, near the Michipicoten River on Lake Superior after running aground during its voyage. The vessel was declared a total loss, and the wreck was abandoned. The crew of seventeen individuals survived the incident, but the ship itself was never recovered. The registry for the Acadia was closed on December 17, 1911.
5. NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories specifically related to the wreck of the Acadia. Mariners navigating near the Michipicoten River should be aware of the historical wreck site and potential underwater hazards.
6. LOCATED BY & DATE #
The exact location of the Acadia’s wreck near the Michipicoten River on Lake Superior is not specified. The vessel was reported lost on November 4, 1896, and the site has been known since the time of the wreck.
7. CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The current condition of the Acadia’s wreck is not documented in available records. Given the time since the vessel’s loss in 1896, it is likely that the wreck has deteriorated significantly. The composite hull construction might have helped preserve some parts of the wreck, but the exact state remains unknown. Further exploration would be required to assess the wreck’s condition.
8. RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Great Lakes Ships
- Bowling Green State University
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Website
- WaWa History
- Silent Sports Magazine
9. ADDITIONAL NOTES #
The history of the Acadia highlights the challenges faced by vessels operating on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. The vessel’s construction, modifications, and eventual loss reflect the dynamic and often perilous nature of Great Lakes shipping. The Acadia’s story serves as a reminder of the resilience of the crews who navigated these treacherous waters and the ongoing risks associated with maritime operations.
10. DIVING NOTES & RECOMMENDATIONS #
Due to the lack of specific information regarding the depth and condition of the Acadia’s wreck, diving details are limited. However, if the wreck were to be located, it would likely require advanced diving skills given the possible depth and deteriorated condition. Divers should approach the site with caution and respect for the historical significance of the wreck.
TAGS #
- Lake Superior
- 19th Century
- Composite Hull
- Maritime History
- Shipwreck
CONCLUSION #
The propeller vessel Acadia, built in 1867, played an important role in the maritime history of the Great Lakes. Its eventual loss near the Michipicoten River on Lake Superior in 1896 marks the end of a vessel that had undergone significant changes and challenges throughout its service life. The Acadia’s story is a testament to the resilience of Great Lakes shipping and the enduring legacy of the vessels that navigated these waters.
