Identification and Site Information #
Beneath the icy depths of the St. Lawrence River, between Morristown, New York, and Brockville, Ontario, lies a relic of early 20th-century innovation—a 1928 Chevrolet modified for ice road travel. Owned and adapted by Harold Steele, this vehicle was a testament to human ingenuity in the face of harsh winter conditions. Tragically, in the winter of 1941, the car met its end when it broke through the unstable ice and sank into the river. Today, the submerged Chevrolet offers divers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and the inventive spirit of early winter travelers.
The 1928 Chevrolet, like many vehicles of its time, was a symbol of the Roaring Twenties—a durable and popular model produced by a growing automotive industry. However, the car wasn’t originally designed for the treacherous conditions of ice roads. Harold Steele, facing the challenges of transporting mail across the frozen St. Lawrence River, took it upon himself to modify his Chevrolet for winter travel.
•Reinforced Skis or Runners: Steele likely added skis or runners beneath the wheels, enabling the vehicle to glide more smoothly across the icy surface, a common practice for vehicles used on ice roads at the time.
•Rumble Seat: The addition of a rumble seat expanded the vehicle’s capacity, allowing Steele to transport not only mail but small cargo as well. This modification made the Chevrolet both practical and functional for its demanding role.
The Tragic Incident #
In the harsh winter of 1941, Harold Steele embarked on a routine journey across the frozen river, navigating between Morristown and Brockville. As he drove the Chevrolet across the ice, tragedy struck—the ice beneath him cracked, and the vehicle plummeted into the frigid waters of the St. Lawrence River.
Steele’s escape from the sinking car was nothing short of miraculous. In a desperate bid for survival, he managed to pull himself free from the Chevrolet as it sank beneath the ice. However, he found himself struggling to maintain his grip on the slippery surface. Using quick thinking, Steele pressed his heavy mittens into the ice, allowing them to freeze and create the leverage needed to pull himself to safety.
Although Steele survived, the Chevrolet was lost to the depths, sinking rapidly beneath the ice-covered river. Its exact coordinates and depth remain unknown, though estimates suggest the wreck rests at around 60 feet (18 meters) beneath the surface.
The Dive Site: Exploring a Unique Piece of History #
For divers, the sunken 1928 Chevrolet offers a rare opportunity to explore a relic from a time when ingenuity was a necessity for winter travel. The site provides a captivating window into the past, where modified vehicles like Steele’s Chevrolet played a crucial role in the daily lives of those living in the St. Lawrence region.
•Visibility: Depending on the season and water conditions, visibility in the St. Lawrence River can range from 3-15 feet. Divers should be prepared for lower visibility due to the potential depth and water conditions.
•Temperature: The water temperature can be particularly cold, even in the warmer months, making thermal protection essential.
•Currents: The St. Lawrence River is known for its strong currents, especially near the wreck site. Divers should exercise caution and ensure they are equipped for potentially challenging conditions.
The story of Harold Steele’s modified Chevrolet is a tale of innovation, survival, and ultimately, loss. While it serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by those who navigated the frozen landscape, it also highlights the ingenuity of individuals who adapted their vehicles to meet the unique challenges of winter travel.
In an era when ice roads were crucial for connecting isolated communities across the St. Lawrence River, Steele’s Chevrolet represents the lengths to which people went to continue their lives in the harshest conditions. The vehicle’s sinking is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of ice roads and the perils they posed, even to the most resourceful travelers.
For divers, the wreck of the Chevrolet provides a chance to connect with a unique chapter in the region’s history. The vehicle’s intact structure, coupled with the modifications made by Steele, offers valuable insights into early 20th-century winter travel. The vehicle remains submerged and presumably intact, frozen in time beneath the river’s surface.
Safety Considerations: #
•Experience Level: Due to the depth, cold water, and potential for strong currents, this dive site is recommended for experienced divers with the necessary equipment and training.
•Local Regulations: It is important for divers to follow all local guidelines and regulations to protect the site and ensure safe exploration.
External Links and References #
- Automotive History Society: For further information on the history and evolution of automotive modifications for winter use.
- St. Lawrence River Historical Diving Society: A resource for divers interested in exploring the numerous wrecks and underwater sites in the St. Lawrence River.
- Local Archives and Historical Societies: For more detailed records and personal accounts related to Harold Steele and the use of ice roads during the early 20th century.
Conclusion #
The 1928 Chevrolet modified for ice road use, now resting beneath the St. Lawrence River, is a rare and intriguing dive site that tells a story of innovation, survival, and loss. As more divers explore this site, it will continue to shed light on the challenges faced by those who navigated the frozen river and the lengths to which individuals went to adapt their vehicles to the environment. Whether you’re a diver, a history enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the past, the story of this sunken Chevrolet offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era.
