IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Barge Remains, located near Hardy Park in Brockville, Ontario, are believed to be the remains of a wooden rail-related barge, possibly used in the late 19th to early 20th centuries. The wreck lies at a depth of 78-80 feet (24-25 meters) directly in front of the band structure in Hardy Park. The site features the remains of a structure approximately 100 feet in length, with the vessel having likely been burned down to the waterline. The surviving structure includes bottom beams spaced similarly to rail ties, as well as a small section of firebrick and some machinery located at the rear (east end) of the wreck.
HISTORY & SIGNIFICANCE #
During the height of the industrial revolution and the expansion of railroads across North America, rail-related barges played a crucial role in transporting goods, materials, and possibly even railcars across waterways like the St. Lawrence River. Brockville, being a strategic hub on the river, saw a significant amount of maritime and rail traffic, and barges like the one at Hardy Park would have been integral to this network.
The Barge Remains (Rail) could have been involved in transporting rail cars, tracks, or other heavy goods necessary for maintaining and expanding the rail network. The presence of bottom beams sized and spaced like rail ties suggests a direct connection to rail transport, making this wreck a tangible link to the industrial past of the region.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The barge appears to have been abandoned and subsequently burned down to the waterline. The exact cause and circumstances of its abandonment and destruction remain unknown, but the wreck now serves as an intriguing underwater site for divers and a point of historical interest for maritime enthusiasts.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
Located by: The site was surveyed unofficially in 2017 by a team of divers.
Date of Discovery: The wreck has been known for some time but was specifically surveyed in 2017.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to this wreck. However, divers should respect the site and ensure that no further degradation occurs due to human activity.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The wreck remains in a deteriorated state, with most of the structure having been burned away. What remains are the bottom beams and some machinery, along with a small section of firebrick. The site is located in relatively shallow water, making it accessible to divers with appropriate experience. The wreck’s condition suggests that it is fragile, and care should be taken during exploration.
DIVING CONDITIONS #
- Visibility: Variable depending on seasonal changes and water currents.
- Temperature: Cold, especially at depth, even during summer; appropriate thermal protection is recommended.
- Currents: Potentially strong, particularly at depth; divers should plan accordingly.
Video and Photos by Stephen Hatch of Brockville #
Gerald Baker measuring July 2, 2017, Stephen Hatch on Camera
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Offers resources for further research on shipwrecks and maritime history in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River region.
- Brockville Museum: Local historical resources and archives that may provide additional context and information about the barge and its potential connection to the rail industry.
- Local Diving Clubs and Organizations: Contact local dive shops and organizations in Brockville for guided dives and more information on the wreck.
CONCLUSION #
The Barge Remains (Rail) at Hardy Park in Brockville, Ontario, represent a fascinating piece of the region’s industrial maritime history. While the exact identity and history of the barge remain uncertain, the site offers valuable insights into the role of waterborne transport in the development of the rail network during a key period of North American industrial growth. Further exploration and research may uncover more details, potentially confirming the barge’s role in rail transport and solidifying its place in the rich tapestry of the St. Lawrence River’s maritime history.
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ANALYSIS #
The Barge Remains (Rail) near Hardy Park are a significant yet underappreciated site, offering a tangible connection to the industrial past of the region. The wreck’s potential connection to rail transport adds to its historical importance, making it a valuable subject for further research. The site’s accessibility and relatively shallow depth make it an intriguing dive for those interested in exploring the intersections of maritime and rail history in the Great Lakes region.
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