IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
Lock 23 was a key component of the old St. Lawrence Canal system, developed in the 19th century to enable ships to navigate the varying water levels of the St. Lawrence River. This lock system was essential for facilitating the safe and efficient passage of vessels from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, overcoming the river’s natural obstacles such as rapids.
HISTORY #
Lock 23 was part of the St. Lawrence Canals, which were initially opened in the early 1800s and expanded throughout the 19th century to accommodate growing commercial traffic. These canals were vital in North America’s economic development, enabling the transport of goods from inland regions to international markets. By the mid-20th century, however, the lock system could no longer handle the larger vessels that dominated maritime trade. The construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway in the 1950s rendered the old lock system obsolete, leading to the submersion of many locks, including Lock 23, as part of the new waterway’s development.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
Lock 23 now lies submerged under the waters of the St. Lawrence River, serving as a relic of the region’s industrial and maritime past. While it is no longer functional, the lock remains an important site for historical research and a point of interest for divers and historians.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
Lock 23 has become an underwater archaeological site, providing a fascinating dive for those interested in 19th-century engineering. The submerged structure is accessible to experienced divers, offering a unique opportunity to explore the historical underwater landscapes of the St. Lawrence River. The lock remains well-preserved, allowing for a detailed examination of the construction techniques and materials used during the period.
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND METHODS #
The locks in the St. Lawrence Canal system, including Lock 23, were constructed using materials such as concrete, steel, and locally sourced stone. These materials were chosen for their ability to withstand the pressures exerted by water and the heavy vessels passing through the locks. The construction process involved precise engineering, with large stone blocks forming the lock chambers, and steel used for gates and other mechanical components. This robust construction contributed to the locks’ longevity, even as they eventually became obsolete with the advent of larger ships.
ANOTHER SUBMERGED LOCK: LOCK 25 #
Lock 25, another submerged lock site, is located at approximately N 44° 37.890′ W 075° 40.567′. This site, accessible via Highway 401 east from Kingston, Ontario, and exiting at Brockville (Exit 696), offers a similar historical diving experience. Like Lock 23, Lock 25 is submerged and provides an intriguing look into the past.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN EXPLORING LOCK 23 #
Divers visiting Lock 23 can expect to see the remnants of the original lock structure, including the large stone blocks that once formed its walls. The site is rich in aquatic life, with species like perch, bass, and freshwater mussels commonly observed. The surrounding submerged plants create a vibrant habitat for various fish and wildlife.
Visibility at Lock 23 can vary depending on seasonal and weather conditions, but during optimal times, divers can enjoy clear views of the lock and its surroundings. This combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes Lock 23 a unique and rewarding dive site.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation: Information on the current management of the St. Lawrence Seaway.
- Save Ontario Shipwrecks: Focuses on the preservation of underwater cultural heritage, including submerged sites like Lock 23.
CONCLUSION #
Lock 23 is a significant part of the St. Lawrence River’s maritime history, offering a glimpse into the 19th-century engineering that once facilitated North America’s economic growth. Now submerged, this site serves as a testament to the region’s industrial past and provides a unique underwater experience for divers interested in Canada’s maritime heritage.
KEYWORDS
Lock 23
St. Lawrence River
Submerged lock
Old St. Lawrence Canal
Canadian maritime history
Underwater dive site
Historical infrastructure
