Unidentified Schooner (Tiller)

3 min read

Identification and Site Information #

Type: Wooden Schooner
Depth: 110 feet (33 meters)
Length: 95 feet (29 meters)
Location: Port Dalhousie, Lake Ontario
Coordinates: N43°14.734′ W070°17.064′

History #

The shipwreck known as the “Tiller Wreck,” initially believed to be the “Henry Clay,” is a mysterious and well-preserved wooden schooner lying on the bottom of Lake Ontario. Disproven to be the Henry Clay, the true identity of the vessel remains unknown. This schooner is estimated to date back to the early 1800s, yet the specifics of its construction, origin, and sinking remain elusive.

The wreck lies at an angle on its starboard side, with the most notable feature being the intact wooden tiller at the stern, indicating that the ship was steered using a tiller instead of a more modern ship’s wheel. The vessel’s deck features open cargo hatches, which allow for exploration, though divers must exercise caution due to the potential for overhead hazards and silt disturbance.

The Dive #

The Tiller Wreck is located approximately 6 kilometers off the coast of Port Dalhousie, Lake Ontario, resting at a depth of 110 feet. This site is primarily suited for advanced divers due to its depth and the cold temperatures that are typical of Lake Ontario waters, rarely exceeding 50°F (10°C). Visibility can range dramatically from 40 feet to 70 feet, offering a comprehensive view of the wreck from bow to stern under ideal conditions.

Discovered by Jim Garrington of Shark Marine while testing a sidescan sonar unit, the wreck has been extensively documented through archaeological and photographic surveys, including by David Gilchrist. The identification as the Henry Clay was later disproven, and the wreck has since been referred to simply as the Tiller.

Highlights of the dive include the remarkably preserved wooden tiller and rudder, still at the same angle as they were when the ship met its end. While the bow remains relatively intact, the bowsprit has broken off. The wreck is moored to prevent further damage, a protective measure made possible by the collaboration of various divers and organizations, including Len Rooney and the Niagara Divers’ Association.

Analysis #

The Tiller Wreck offers divers not just an exciting dive, but also a journey into maritime history. Its preservation and the mystery surrounding its identity draw interest from both amateur and professional divers alike. The tiller, an uncommon steering mechanism for shipwrecks of this era, adds to the unique appeal of this dive site. The consistent efforts to preserve the wreck through mooring systems highlight the community’s commitment to maintaining this underwater heritage for future exploration.