C88309 FLORANCE

Identification & Site Information

Identification & Site Information

Vessel Type Description The Florence was a steam-powered tug built in 1885 by La Compagnie Maritime et Industrielle de Lévis in Lévis, Québec. Originally designed for towing ocean-going vessels between Montréal and Québec City, the tug was equipped with a compound surface condensing steam engine and a steel boiler capable of operating at high pressures. Over its operational life, the Florence served various roles, including harbor tug, salvage tug, and coal transporter, adapting to the needs of its owners across multiple regions.

History The Florence was launched on May 3, 1885, and christened by Mrs. A. J. Learmonth of Montréal. Built for Henry Jewell and W. F. Lemesurier of Québec City, the tug initially measured 91 x 19.8 x 9 feet with a gross tonnage of 113 tons and a net tonnage of 77 tons. It entered service in September 1885, primarily towing large vessels between Montréal and Québec City.

Throughout its service, the Florence changed ownership multiple times, reflecting its adaptability and value as a working tug on the Great Lakes and beyond. Notable transitions included its sale to Sincennes-McNaughton Line Ltd. in 1898, its acquisition by Captain F. B. Hackett in 1902 for use as a salvage tug, and its role in towing log rafts on Georgian Bay.

In 1906, the Florence was purchased by the Quebec Transportation and Forwarding Co., Ltd., which later became Quebec Transportation Co., Ltd. The tug continued to serve in various capacities, including coal transportation, until it was acquired by the George Hall Coal Co., Ltd. in 1921. Its final ownership change occurred in 1932 when Dominion Tankers, Ltd. of Toronto purchased and refurbished the Florence for towing operations.

Final Disposition The Florence met its tragic end on November 14, 1933, during a severe storm while towing the state-of-the-art British-built welded tank barge, Peter G. Campbell. The tug took on water and eventually sank off Point Traverse, Ontario, in Lake Ontario. The wreckage of the Florence lay at depths ranging from 60 feet to 100 feet, partially salvaged in the years following its sinking.

In 1942, salvage operations recovered approximately 60% of the vessel, including the boiler, decking, smokestack, and other components, which were left on Timber Island. The remains of the Florence continue to lie on the lakebed, with recent efforts by SOS Picton in 2022 to install moorings and subsequent shotline diving in 2023 producing site maps and initial models of the wreck.

NOTMARs & Advisories There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically concerning the wreck of the Florence. However, the site is marked by moorings installed by SOS Picton, making it accessible for divers interested in exploring this historical wreck.

Located By & Date The wreck of the Florence was identified and partially salvaged in 1942, with continued interest from divers and maritime historians. In 2022, moorings were installed at the site, and in 2023, shotline diving resulted in a site map and initial 3D models of the remaining structure.

Current Condition & Accessibility The wreck of the Florence lies between 60 and 100 feet of water, making it accessible to experienced divers. While significant portions of the vessel were salvaged in 1942, the remaining structure, including parts of the hull and other remnants, offers a fascinating glimpse into the tug’s history. The site is marked with moorings, and divers can explore the remains and observe the ongoing efforts to document and preserve the wreck.

3D Model by Corey Phillips SLD CC

Resources & Links

• 3D Model of the Deck, Corey Philips, SLD: A 3D model of the Florence‘s deck created through shotline diving efforts.
• Post on Facebook by William Lafferty: Historical photograph and discussion regarding the Florence.

Keywords Florence, tug, Point Traverse, Lake Ontario, shipwreck, salvage, Great Lakes, maritime history, SOS Picton

Analysis The story of the Florence is emblematic of the diverse and often perilous roles played by tugs on the Great Lakes. Launched in 1885, the vessel served various functions, from towing ocean-going ships to participating in salvage operations and transporting coal. The Florence‘s adaptability and long service life highlight its significance in the maritime history of the region. Its final journey, marked by a tragic sinking during a storm in 1933, underscores the dangers faced by vessels on the Great Lakes. The partial salvage of the Florence and the ongoing efforts to document and preserve its remains reflect the continued interest in this storied tug. The site remains a valuable resource for divers and historians alike, offering insights into the technological and operational history of Great Lakes shipping.

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