Unidentified – Rose Bay Barges

VESSEL & SITE DESCRIPTION #

Construction and Use: The two barges found in Rose Bay were owned by Stewart Sill of Sodus, New York. These barges were primarily used to carry fill materials for major construction projects in the Thousand Islands region, including the iconic 1000 Island Bridge and the extension of Boldt Castle’s island to give it its distinctive heart shape.

The barges were part of a larger fleet employed by Stewart Sill’s business, which was involved in various transportation and construction tasks in the region. The timber dock associated with these barges served as a loading and unloading point, likely facilitating the movement of construction materials and agricultural products in the area.

Winterization and Abandonment: Sinking barges during the winter was a common practice to protect them from ice damage. After Stewart Sill lost the contract for transporting cement for the buoys, he decided to leave the barges in Rose Bay, effectively abandoning them. This marked the end of his business operations, and the barges were never recovered.

The submerged circular cribs off Beadles Point and the timber dock near Palmer’s Court, used by local farmers in the late 1920s and early 1930s, played a significant role in the local hay trade. These structures supported the agricultural economy by facilitating the transport of hay and other goods across the St. Lawrence River.

CURRENT CONDITION & DIVE INFORMATION #

Wreck Condition: The two barges and the timber dock lie submerged in approximately 10 feet (3 meters) of water in Rose Bay. The shallow depth makes the site accessible to divers of all levels. Over time, the wooden structures of the barges and the dock have likely deteriorated, but they still offer an interesting exploration opportunity.

The submerged cribs near Beadles Point, which were used in the local hay trade, are also visible at the site. These cribs, constructed from logs and filled with stone, were used as part of the docking and loading facilities.

Diving Access: Rose Bay is easily accessible by boat, and the shallow depth of the wrecks makes it an ideal spot for divers, snorkelers, and even kayakers interested in exploring submerged historical sites. Visibility in the St. Lawrence River can vary, so it’s advisable to dive on calm days for the best experience.

Points of Interest:

• Barges: The two sunken barges, though weathered by time, provide a unique glimpse into the region’s construction and transportation history.
• Timber Dock: The remains of the timber dock offer insight into the infrastructure that supported local trade and transport.
• Submerged Cribs: These circular cribs are remnants of the hay trade infrastructure, adding another layer of historical significance to the site.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE #

The two barges and associated timber dock at Rose Bay are a reminder of the region’s rich industrial and agricultural history. Stewart Sill’s business played a crucial role in the development of the Thousand Islands, particularly in iconic projects like the 1000 Island Bridge and Boldt Castle. The practice of sinking barges to protect them from ice damage highlights the practical measures taken by those who worked on the river.

The timber dock and submerged cribs are also significant, reflecting the importance of the hay trade and other agricultural activities in sustaining the local economy during the early 20th century. These structures served as vital links in the transportation network that connected the farms of the St. Lawrence River region with broader markets.

The site is not just a point of interest for divers and historians; it also tells the story of a bygone era when the St. Lawrence River was a hub of commerce, construction, and trade, shaping the landscape and communities that thrived along its shores.

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