Argosy U29296

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The Argosy, a wooden barge built in 1868 by G.H. Notter in Buffalo, NY, was part of the essential maritime infrastructure that kept the trade routes of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River alive in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Measuring 107 feet in length with a beam of 24 feet, the Argosy was a sizeable vessel for its time, designed to transport heavy cargo such as coal, lumber, and other raw materials across the St. Lawrence River and beyond.

Originally enrolled in Ogdensburg, NY, the Argosy served the bustling commercial networks around Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, where it played a vital role in supporting the growing regional economy. Vessels like the Argosy were critical to maintaining the flow of goods, providing a lifeline to industries that were rapidly expanding across the United States and Canada.

The barge was initially owned by Hall & Gardner, a firm based in Ogdensburg, NY, a key maritime hub at the time. Ownership of the Argosy changed hands multiple times over its operational life, reflecting the vessel’s ability to remain relevant even as the needs of the industry evolved.

• 1868: The Argosy was enrolled in Ogdensburg, NY, under the ownership of Hall & Gardner.
• 1871: Ownership remained with Hall & Gardner.
• 1875: The barge underwent repairs, indicating regular use and the wear and tear that accompanied its operations.
• 1876: Ownership passed to Gardner & S., continuing its service in the Ogdensburg area.
• 1879: The vessel came under the ownership of Seymour & Co., another prominent local firm.

The Argosy’s operational life wasn’t without incident. On October 13, 1879, it ran ashore on Galloo Shoal while being towed by the tug Gardner alongside the barge Kent. Fortunately, the damage was minimal, and the barge returned to service shortly after the incident.

The Argosy was last owned by the Geo. Hall Coal Co., another prominent player in the region’s coal trade. By 1912, after more than four decades of service, the Argosy was reported as abandoned in the St. Lawrence River near Ogdensburg, NY. While the specific circumstances leading to the vessel’s abandonment are unclear, it’s likely that the ship had simply outlived its usefulness. The demands of shipping had grown beyond what the aging wooden barge could handle, and its operational lifespan came to an end.

Today, the wreck of the Argosy rests quietly in the St. Lawrence River, just outside of Ogdensburg. Although it has been underwater for more than a century, the wreckage offers divers an intriguing look into the history of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River shipping.

Structural Features #

While much of the wooden hull has deteriorated over time, key elements of the Argosy’s structure can still be seen, providing insight into its construction. The two masts that once stood proudly above the deck are long gone, but parts of the hull and decking remain visible. This allows divers to visualize the ship’s original form, giving a sense of the scale and the rugged construction that was necessary for vessels navigating these waters.

Debris Field #

The surrounding debris field contains remnants of tools and equipment that were once used aboard the Argosy, as well as pieces of cargo that were left behind when the ship was abandoned. These remnants give modern divers a tangible connection to the ship’s operational life and its place in the river’s bustling commercial activity.

Marine Life #

Over the decades, the wreck has become an artificial reef, attracting a variety of fish and other aquatic species. The Argosy now serves as a vibrant underwater habitat, with its wooden beams providing shelter for fish and surfaces for plant growth. Divers visiting the site are often treated to a mix of historical exploration and encounters with local wildlife, adding to the appeal of the dive.

Dive Conditions #

Depth and Visibility #

The Argosy lies in the St. Lawrence River at a depth of approximately 60 feet (18 meters), which is within the range of recreational diving. Visibility in the river is generally good, with clear water allowing divers to fully appreciate the wreck’s features. However, conditions can vary depending on the time of year and river currents.

Current #

Like most dive sites in the St. Lawrence River, the Argosy wreck is subject to moderate currents, which can make the dive more challenging, especially for less experienced divers. The current, however, is manageable with proper preparation and awareness, and it adds an exciting dynamic to the exploration of the wreck.

Access #

Access to the Argosy wreck is typically by boat, and several dive operators in the Ogdensburg area offer guided trips to the site. These charters provide divers with the necessary safety support and local knowledge to navigate the currents and explore the wreck safely.

Historical Significance #

The Argosy holds significant value not only as a shipwreck but as a symbol of the commercial heritage of the St. Lawrence River. It served as a vital part of the local economy, supporting the coal trade and other industries that relied on the river for transportation.

Exploring the wreck provides insight into the evolution of cargo vessels on the river and the transition from sailing shipsto steam-powered vessels. The Argosy’s longevity is a testament to the durability of 19th-century shipbuilding and the ingenuity of the workers who kept these vessels operational for decades.

Preservation and Dive Guidelines #

As with all historical wreck sites, divers are encouraged to respect the integrity of the Argosy wreck. Removing artifacts or disturbing the wreck site is prohibited, as the wreck remains a valuable historical resource for both researchers and future divers.

Local dive organizations and historical societies continue to monitor the site, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Divers are asked to follow best practices for wreck diving, such as using buoyancy control to avoid damaging the fragile remains of the ship