SITE IDENTIFICATION
SITE DESCRIPTION
Bell’s Barrel is a large wooden barrel constructed for the purpose of lifting shipwrecks from the bottom of the riverbed. This barrel, which is a part of historical salvage equipment, lies approximately 100 meters northeast of the wreck of the William Johnston in the St. Lawrence River. The barrel is notable for its size and the robust wooden construction, indicating it was used in substantial salvage operations, potentially in the early to mid-20th century.
HISTORY
The barrel is believed to be linked to salvage operations conducted by Mr. Bell, who likely used it as part of an effort to lift the wreck of the William Johnston or other vessels in the area. Wooden barrels like this one were commonly used to provide buoyancy for sunken ships, working in conjunction with ropes, pulleys, and other lifting gear to raise wrecks from the depths. The barrel’s presence at this site adds a layer of historical interest, offering insights into past salvage techniques.
DIVE CONDITIONS
- Visibility: Typically varies with the season and weather conditions. Visibility in the St. Lawrence River can range from poor (due to silt and algae) to moderate, often around 5 to 15 feet (1.5 to 4.5 meters).
- Temperature: The water temperature in the St. Lawrence River can range from about 40°F (4°C) in the spring to 70°F (21°C) in the late summer. Divers should be prepared for a thermocline, with colder temperatures at greater depths.
- Current: The St. Lawrence River is known for its strong currents, which can vary based on location and time of year. Divers should be aware of these conditions and plan accordingly.
DIVE ACCESSIBILITY
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
- Entry Point: Boat entry is required due to the location in the river.
- Hazards: Strong currents, cold water temperatures, and limited visibility. Divers should be cautious of entanglement hazards near the wreck of the William Johnston.
POINTS OF INTEREST
- The Barrel: The primary attraction at this dive site is the large wooden barrel itself, which is a significant piece of historical salvage equipment. Divers can observe the construction details and consider the barrel’s role in historical salvage operations.
- Proximity to Wreck: The nearby wreck of the William Johnston provides additional exploration opportunities. The proximity of the barrel to the wreck suggests it may have been part of an effort to recover this specific vessel.
DIVING TIPS
- Plan for Current: Divers should be prepared for the strong currents typical of the St. Lawrence River. A drift dive may be necessary depending on conditions.
- Cold Water Gear: A drysuit or a thick wetsuit is recommended due to the cold water temperatures, especially if diving below the thermocline.
- Navigation: Due to the proximity of the barrel to the wreck of the William Johnston, divers may want to start at one site and navigate to the other, using a compass or dive computer with GPS capabilities.
CONSERVATION & RESPONSIBILITY
As an important piece of historical salvage equipment, the barrel and surrounding site should be treated with respect. Divers are encouraged to observe without disturbing the barrel or any part of the wreck. This site offers valuable insights into historical maritime practices, and preserving its integrity is crucial for future research and exploration.
RESOURCES & LINKS
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
KEYWORDS
- Bell’s Barrel, St. Lawrence River, Salvage Operations, William Johnston Wreck, Wooden Barrel, Maritime History, Dive Site.
ANALYSIS Bell’s Barrel represents a unique dive site that offers a glimpse into the historical methods used to salvage shipwrecks from the depths of the St. Lawrence River. Its proximity to the wreck of the William Johnston enhances its significance, providing divers with a rich historical context to explore. The challenges posed by the site, including strong currents and cold water, make it suitable for more experienced divers, but the rewards are significant for those interested in maritime history.