JOHN RANDALL C117121

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #

The John Randall was a steam barge built in 1905 in Kingston, Ontario. The vessel was powered by a screw propeller, a common propulsion method for steam-powered vessels of the time. With a gross tonnage of 194 tons, the John Randallwas primarily used for transporting coal, particularly for railway purposes. The barge was a robust workhorse on the Great Lakes, serving the transportation needs of the region.

HISTORY: #

The John Randall had a relatively short but active service life on Lake Ontario. Built in 1905, the vessel was initially owned by J. Randall of Seeleys Bay, Ontario. By 1917, ownership had transferred to H.F. Randall, also of Seeleys Bay. The John Randall was primarily engaged in transporting coal to Smiths Falls, a key railway hub in Ontario.

In 1907, the vessel underwent a significant rebuild, which slightly modified its dimensions but maintained its overall structure and purpose. The steam barge continued to serve as a critical link in the coal supply chain for the region’s railways.

The John Randall met its end on November 16, 1920, when it wrecked near Main Duck Island in Lake Ontario. The circumstances leading to the wreck are not fully detailed, but like many vessels in the area, it likely faced challenging weather conditions, navigational hazards, or other factors common to the treacherous waters near Main Duck Island.

FINAL DISPOSITION: #

The John Randall was wrecked near Main Duck Island, Lake Ontario, on November 16, 1920. The wreck was left at the site, marking the end of the steam barge’s service on the Great Lakes. The site remains a point of interest for maritime historians and divers exploring the shipwrecks of Lake Ontario.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) directly related to the John Randall wreck site. However, mariners should exercise caution when navigating near Main Duck Island due to the numerous wrecks and underwater hazards in the area.

LOCATED BY & DATE: #

The wreck of the John Randall was documented following its sinking in 1920. It remains submerged near Main Duck Island.

RESOURCES & LINKS: #

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Great Lakes Ships Database: Information on shipwrecks and vessel histories in the Great Lakes region.
• Naval Marine Archive – The Canadian Collection: Historical records and archives.

KEYWORDS: #

John Randall, Steam Barge, Lake Ontario Shipwreck, Main Duck Island, 1920 Wreck, Canadian Maritime History.

ANALYSIS: #

The wreck of the John Randall is indicative of the challenges faced by steam-powered barges operating on Lake Ontario in the early 20th century. These vessels were essential for the transport of coal and other goods, particularly for the railway industry. The sinking of the John Randall near Main Duck Island adds to the legacy of maritime hazards in this area, reflecting both the importance of these vessels and the risks they encountered.