IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Rideaulite was originally built as a tank vessel in 1930 by Furness Shipbuilding Co. at Haverton Hill-On-Tees in the United Kingdom. Constructed with a steel hull, the vessel was designed for transporting oil and other liquids for Imperial Oil Ltd. Over the years, the vessel was repurposed several times, including conversions into a barge and a dredge, reflecting its versatility and changing roles on the Great Lakes. The Rideaulite was powered by a screw propulsion system, featuring a triple expansion engine with a total of 650 horsepower, built by NE Marine Engineering Co. in 1930.
HISTORY #
Launched in 1930 as Rideaulite, the vessel served Imperial Oil Ltd, transporting petroleum products. In 1947, it was renamed Imperial Lachine. The vessel underwent a significant transformation in 1954 when it was sold to Holden Sand & Gravel Ltd and converted into a self-unloading sand dredge, receiving the name Niagara. The vessel’s ownership changed hands multiple times between 1968 and 1984, during which it was renamed W.M. Edington and later Niagara II.
In 1972, the vessel received a major upgrade, with a 12-cylinder, 635-horsepower diesel engine from Caterpillar Tractor Co., enhancing its operational capabilities. By 1984, the Niagara II was owned by McKeil Marine Ltd and continued to serve as a dredge. In 1990, it was converted into a barge, marking another chapter in its long and varied career.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The final chapter for the Rideaulite (Niagara II) came on May 15, 1999, when the vessel was intentionally sunk off the coast of Tobermory, Ontario, to create an artificial reef and dive site. The ship now lies at a depth of 100 feet, providing an accessible and fascinating underwater attraction for divers exploring the waters of Lake Huron.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck of the Rideaulite (Niagara II) was deliberately scuttled and is now a popular dive site. The site is well-documented and frequently visited by diving enthusiasts.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
The site is marked as a shipwreck and is considered a safe and accessible dive site. Divers are advised to be aware of the depth and water conditions when exploring the wreck.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: http://www.baillod.com/shipwreck/swayze/
- Labbie Collection: https://greatlakeships.org/2907793/data?grd=4085
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: http://www.maritimehistoryofthegreatlakes.ca/
- Niagara II – Vlada Dekina: Niagara II – Vlada Dekina
- Niagara II – Warren Lo Photography: Niagara II – Warren Lo Photography
CONCLUSION #
The Rideaulite, known by many names throughout its service life, is a testament to the adaptability and resilience of Great Lakes vessels. From its beginnings as a tank vessel to its final role as a sand sucker and eventual dive site, the ship has had a storied career. Now resting on the lakebed near Tobermory, Ontario, the Niagara II continues to serve the community, albeit in a different capacity, as a key attraction for divers exploring the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes.
KEYWORDS #
Rideaulite, Niagara II, Imperial Lachine, W.M. Edington, Shipwreck, Great Lakes History, Lake Huron, Maritime Archaeology, Tobermory, Dive Site
