IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Tinto was a wooden propeller steamship constructed in 1855 at Sorel, Quebec, Canada by D. & J. McCarthy. The vessel was designed to serve both passenger and freight routes, primarily operating between Montreal and Lake Erie. It featured a V-2 engine configuration, with engines built by Miln & Miln of Montreal. The Tinto was owned by Gibb & Ross, a prominent company based in Montreal.
HISTORY #
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Construction: Built in 1855 by D. & J. McCarthy in Sorel, Quebec, Canada. The steamship was intended to navigate the challenging waters between Montreal and Lake Erie, providing essential transport services for both passengers and goods.
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Engines: The Tinto was powered by engines measuring 22.5×30 inches, manufactured by Miln & Miln at the Dock Engine Works in Montreal. The engines operated at right angles on the same shaft, a configuration referred to as “V-2.”
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Fire Incident: On June 11, 1856, tragedy struck when the Tinto caught fire and was completely destroyed near Kingston, Ontario, Canada. The fire claimed the lives of approximately 12 people, including Captain Campbell and a passenger named Mr. Henderson. Despite the efforts to control the blaze, the ship was lost.
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Survivors and Rescue: The purser and 12 crew members managed to survive the incident. Accounts vary regarding the adequacy of safety measures on board, with some reports indicating that there were three boats available, which were theoretically sufficient for the crew and passengers. However, the effectiveness of these safety measures remains a point of debate.
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Cause of the Fire: The exact cause of the fire was never determined, leading to discussions about the safety equipment and protocols on board. Some witnesses suggested that an iron casing around the funnels could have prevented the fire from spreading, but this was not confirmed.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
- Sinking: The Tinto was completely destroyed by fire on June 11, 1856, near Kingston, Ontario, in the St. Lawrence River. The wreck is now located at a depth of approximately 40 feet near Cedar Island, making it an intriguing dive site for those exploring the St. Lawrence River.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories are related to the site of the Tinto’s wreck.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck of the Tinto is a known dive site near Cedar Island, St. Lawrence River, with coordinates N44’13.422″ W76’27.018″. The site is accessible to divers and has become a significant point of interest in the region’s underwater heritage.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The Tinto wreck lies in approximately 40 feet of water, making it accessible to intermediate-level divers. The site offers a glimpse into the maritime history of the mid-19th century, with the remnants of the wooden hull still visible. The visibility at the site can vary, but it generally provides a clear view of the wreck, offering a valuable opportunity for underwater exploration.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Marine Museum of the Great Lakes
- Canadian Heritage Ship Information Database
- Kingston Daily News
- Dive Kingston
KEYWORDS #
Propeller Steamship, Maritime Disaster, 19th Century Shipwreck, St. Lawrence River, Cedar Island Dive Site, Fire Incident
ANALYSIS #
The story of the Tinto is a poignant reminder of the risks associated with early steamship travel. The vessel’s destruction by fire highlights the vulnerabilities of wooden steamships during this era, particularly in the face of unexpected disasters. The loss of life, including that of Captain Campbell, underscores the tragic human cost of maritime accidents. Despite the loss, the Tinto’s wreck site serves as a historical artifact, offering insight into the engineering and maritime practices of the mid-19th century. The site’s accessibility to divers today allows for continued exploration and preservation of this important chapter in Canadian maritime history.
