Robert Gaskin C80877

Identification and Site Information #

Vessel History #

The R. Gaskin began its life in 1863 as a schooner, constructed by shipbuilders in Kingston, Ontario. Originally owned by S. Fraser, the vessel was designed to transport goods and materials across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River, becoming an essential part of the region’s maritime network. Measuring 132 feet in length, the schooner played a key role in the thriving industries of the time, adapting to the growing demands of maritime transport.

By 1886, the R. Gaskin, like many aging schooners of its era, was converted into a lake barge. This transformation allowed the vessel to continue its service as a workhorse of the waterways, focusing on heavy-duty tasks such as salvage operations. The barge continued to be a valuable asset in the maritime industry, reflecting the ingenuity of shipbuilders who extended the lives of older vessels through repurposing.

The 1889 Salvage Operation and Sinking #

The R. Gaskin’s final mission was part of a major salvage operation near Brockville, Ontario, in 1889. The operation aimed to raise the steamer Armstrong, which had sunk in the St. Lawrence River. Unfortunately, the R. Gaskin would never complete this mission.

On September 18, 1889, while assisting with the salvage of the Armstrong, the R. Gaskin was positioned alongside the sunken steamer as the crew deployed additional pontoons to aid in the recovery. These pontoons were crucial to lifting the Armstrong from the riverbed. However, during the process, one of the pontoons unexpectedly broke free from the riverbed and surfaced with tremendous force. The rising pontoon struck the R. Gaskin, causing severe damage to its hull.

The impact was catastrophic, and the R. Gaskin quickly began to sink. The crew aboard the barge had little time to react but managed to escape to the nearby tug McArthur, avoiding any loss of life. Tragically, the R. Gaskin’s wrecking equipment, pumps, diving gear, and the crew’s personal belongings were lost as the barge descended into the river. It was believed that the Gaskin settled near or on top of the Armstrong.

Subsequent Recovery Efforts and Final Abandonment #

After the sinking of the R. Gaskin, efforts were made to recover the valuable equipment lost with the barge. However, the vessel itself remained on the riverbed for some time, and full recovery seemed increasingly unlikely.

On November 9, 1889, another attempt was made to raise the R. Gaskin. The operation involved the use of lifting pontoons and compressors, but during the salvage attempt, a critical air hose burst, disrupting the operation. The failure forced the Gaskin to settle back onto the riverbed, further complicating efforts to move the barge into shallower waters.

Despite these setbacks, by November 24, 1889, the R. Gaskin had been partially raised and towed to Brockville. While this marked some progress, the operation to recover the steamer Armstrong continued, but the barge’s future was sealed. Ultimately, the R. Gaskin was abandoned, and its documents were surrendered, marking the official end of its career as a maritime vessel.

Legacy of the R. Gaskin #

The wreck of the R. Gaskin serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges and risks inherent in 19th-century salvage operations. While the vessel was once a vital part of the region’s maritime industry, it now rests in the St. Lawrence River, offering modern divers a glimpse into the past. The Gaskin’s story illustrates the perils faced by mariners in their efforts to recover sunken vessels, a task that was both technically challenging and dangerous in the late 1800s.

The Dive Site Today #

Depth and Location #

The wreck of the R. Gaskin rests at a depth of 60 feet (20 meters) in the St. Lawrence River, near Brockville, Ontario. The dive site is relatively accessible, and its historical significance, combined with its underwater features, makes it a favorite destination for divers in the region.

Visibility and Conditions #

The St. Lawrence River is known for its generally good visibility, with ranges typically between 20 to 50 feet (6 to 15 meters) depending on the season and weather conditions. The current in this part of the river is moderate, making the site manageable for divers with some experience in river diving.

Notable Features #

The R. Gaskin offers a fascinating dive for those interested in maritime history and shipwrecks. While much of the vessel has decayed over time, there are still several key features visible to divers:

• Hull Remnants: The skeletal remains of the wooden hull provide a clear picture of the vessel’s structure.
• Diving Gear and Equipment: Some of the wrecking equipment and diving gear lost during the salvage operation remains scattered around the wreck site, providing a tangible connection to the events of 1889.
• Maritime Artifacts: Various items from the barge’s working life can still be found on and around the wreck.

Marine Life #

The wreck of the R. Gaskin has become a thriving habitat for local aquatic species. Fish, mussels, and aquatic plantshave colonized the wreck, creating a diverse ecosystem that adds another layer of interest for divers exploring the site.

Safety and Preservation #

Divers visiting the wreck are encouraged to be mindful of the historical significance of the site. It is important not to disturb any artifacts or remains, as they are part of the region’s maritime heritage. Dive charters and local guides are available to provide information on the site’s history and help ensure that it remains preserved for future generations.

Due to the depth and moderate currents, the R. Gaskin dive site is recommended for intermediate to advanced divers. Proper safety measures, including the use of drift diving techniques and careful navigation, are essential when diving in the river.3D Model by Christian Remillard

Photo Gallery 2022cc Matthew Charlesworth #

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Photo Gallery 2010cc Tom Rutledge #

External Links and References #

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: A comprehensive resource detailing the history of shipwrecks and vessels in the Great Lakes region.
• Save Ontario Shipwrecks (SOS): Dedicated to preserving and documenting Ontario’s shipwrecks, including the R. Gaskin.
• Brockville Historical Society: Local history resources and archives detailing the events surrounding the R. Gaskin and other maritime incidents.

Conclusion #

The wreck of the R. Gaskin is a fascinating and historically rich dive site that offers a glimpse into the challenges of 19th-century salvage operations. Though it met a tragic end during the ill-fated recovery of the steamer Armstrong, the Gaskin continues to serve as a testament to the enduring stories of the vessels that navigated the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.

For divers, the Gaskin provides an opportunity to explore a piece of history beneath the surface, surrounded by the marine life that now calls the wreck home. Whether you’re passionate about wreck diving, maritime history, or underwater ecosystems, the R. Gaskin is an unforgettable dive destination in the St. Lawrence River.