Vessel Name: H.J.D. No. 1 (formerly Finglo 39) #
Official Number: C.152501
Year of Build: 1925
Built at: Port Stanley, Ontario
Initial Purpose: Fishtug
Dimensions (original):
- Length: 77.1 feet
- Beam: 20.8 feet
- Depth: 8 feet
- Gross Tonnage: 83 tons
- Net Tonnage: 29 tons
Construction and Early Years
The H.J.D. No. 1 (originally named Finglo 39) was a wooden fishtug built in 1925 in Port Stanley, Ontario for the Finlay Fish and Storage Company Ltd.. The vessel was initially used for commercial fishing and storage operations, playing an important role in the local fishing industry along the shores of Lake Erie.
Acquisition and Fire Damage
In 1939, the Toronto Drydock Company Ltd. acquired the Finglo 39, and shortly after its arrival in Toronto, the vessel was severely damaged by fire. The extent of the damage necessitated a complete rebuilding, which resulted in significant modifications to the vessel.
Rebuild and New Role as Harbour Tug
After being rebuilt following the fire, the vessel’s dimensions were slightly altered to a length of 84 feet while maintaining the same beam and depth. Its gross tonnage decreased to 67 tons, and its net tonnage increased to 33 tons. Once restored, the vessel was repurposed as a harbour tug and was put into service for the Toronto Towing and Salvage Company Ltd., where it operated within Toronto Harbour.
The H.J.D. No. 1 remained in service as a harbour tug for more than two decades, assisting in towing operations and salvage efforts around Toronto until about 1961.
Final Disposition: Dismantling and Scuttling
By 1961, the H.J.D. No. 1 was dismantled at the Toronto Towing and Salvage Company’s yard. Following its dismantling, the hull was towed out into Lake Ontario and scuttled in deep water, marking the end of the vessel’s operational life.
Historical Significance
The H.J.D. No. 1 highlights the versatility and adaptability of workboats during the mid-20th century. Originally built as a fishtug for the fishing industry, it was later repurposed as a harbour tug after a devastating fire, which illustrates the resourcefulness of the shipping and salvage industry during that time.
Over its long career, the H.J.D. No. 1 provided critical support to the Toronto Harbor, assisting in towing and salvage operations, a vital function in maintaining the busy commercial port activities of the region.
Summary of Key Events: #
- 1925: Built as a fishtug for the Finlay Fish and Storage Company Ltd. in Port Stanley, Ontario.
- 1939: Acquired by the Toronto Drydock Company Ltd. and damaged by fire shortly after arrival in Toronto.
- 1939: Rebuilt and repurposed as a harbour tug, serving for Toronto Towing and Salvage Company Ltd..
- 1961: Dismantled at the company’s yard, with the hull scuttled in Lake Ontario.
The H.J.D. No. 1 represents a part of Toronto’s maritime history, illustrating the importance of small but versatile vessels that supported the local economy through various industries, from fishing to harbor salvag
