ROTHESAY C54485

5 min read

Identification & Site Information #

Rothesay-2022 by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Name: ROTHESAY
Vessel Type: Sidewheel Steamer
Location: Prescott, Ontario, St. Lawrence River
Coordinates: N44 41.581, W75 31.401
Depth: 30 feet (approx. 9.1 meters)
Length: 1000 feet (approx. 304.8 meters) from shore

Vessel Type Description #

The ROTHESAY was a sidewheel steamer, a type of paddle-driven vessel that was prominent in the 19th century for its use in transporting passengers and goods along rivers and coastal routes. Sidewheel steamers, as the name suggests, featured large paddle wheels mounted on either side of the vessel, providing a smooth, stable ride on calm waters. The ROTHESAY was a particularly luxurious example of this type of vessel, offering elegant accommodations to those traveling along the Saint John River and later on the St. Lawrence River. Known for their distinctive design and the rhythmic splashing of their side-mounted paddles, these vessels were an integral part of riverine and coastal transport during their era.

History #

Launched on February 2, 1867, in Fredericton, New Brunswick, the ROTHESAY was originally built to serve the Saint John River, a vital transportation artery at the time. During its early years, the vessel became well-known for its smooth operation and reliable service on this scenic waterway.

In 1877, the ROTHESAY was relocated to Prescott, Ontario, where it began operating on the St. Lawrence River, especially in the picturesque Thousand Islands region. A year later, in 1878, the vessel was transferred once more—this time to Toronto, where it provided regular service between Toronto and the Niagara River, helping to connect passengers and cargo between these major hubs.

The steamer had a largely successful operational life, though it faced its share of challenges. In September 1880, a fire broke out on the boiler deck of the ROTHESAY. Fortunately, the fire was quickly contained, resulting in minimal damage. Throughout its life, the vessel underwent several ownership changes and significant repairs, including extensive work performed in Ogdensburg, New York, in 1886.

However, the ROTHESAY‘s end came tragically and abruptly. On September 12, 1889, the vessel collided with the tug MYRA, just a quarter-mile upstream from Prescott. The damage was catastrophic, and though the crew made a desperate attempt to beach the vessel to save it, their efforts failed. The ROTHESAY was abandoned and declared a total loss. Its wreck presented a significant hazard to river traffic, leading the Royal Military College to dynamite the remains in 1902in an effort to clear the obstruction. Despite this, much of the wreck remained submerged on the riverbed.

Rediscovery and Dive Site #

In 1962, the wreck of the ROTHESAY was rediscovered by members of the Syracuse Skin Divers Club. The wreck now lies at a depth of 30 feet in the St. Lawrence River, just 1000 feet from shore. Today, the site is a popular and accessible destination for divers, offering a unique glimpse into 19th-century maritime history.

While some of the lighter equipment was salvaged from the wreck, much of the ship’s heavier machinery and structural components remain on the riverbed. The ROTHESAY‘s sidewheel mechanisms and paddle shafts can still be seen by divers, along with other remnants of its construction that provide insight into the technology and engineering of sidewheel steamers from that era.

Legacy of the ROTHESAY #

The ROTHESAY stands as a powerful reminder of the era of steam-powered river and coastal transport. Its design reflected the technological advancements of the 19th century, while its wreck tells the story of the risks faced by vessels navigating the challenging waters of the St. Lawrence River. The remains of the ROTHESAY continue to attract not only divers but also maritime historians who seek to understand the significance of steamboat travel during a pivotal time in North America’s transportation history.

Today, the wreck is a valuable underwater archaeological site, offering a tangible connection to the past. Divers exploring the ROTHESAY experience a piece of history firsthand, encountering the craftsmanship and industrial spirit of a bygone era beneath the surface of the river.

NOTMARs & Advisories #

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories related to the ROTHESAY wreck site.

Location and Discovery #

The ROTHESAY was rediscovered in 1962 by the Syracuse Skin Divers Club, bringing the long-lost wreck back into public awareness and opening up new opportunities for historical research and recreational diving. It remains one of the most notable shipwrecks in the St. Lawrence River.

Dive Site Summary #

Location: Prescott, Ontario, St. Lawrence River
Depth: 30 feet (9.1 meters)
Distance from Shore: 1000 feet (304.8 meters)
Coordinates: N44° 41.581′, W75° 31.401′

The wreck of the ROTHESAY offers a unique and accessible dive experience, drawing both novice and experienced divers alike. Whether you’re fascinated by the history of steam-powered vessels or simply want to explore an intriguing underwater site, the ROTHESAY delivers a rewarding and unforgettable dive.