Unidentified – Pond Marina

Vessel Type Description #

This unidentified wooden barge, located near Pond Marina along the shores of Lake Ontario, likely served in the transportation of heavy materials such as coal, lumber, and construction equipment. Common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these robust wooden vessels were vital to the industries and infrastructure projects in the region. The barge’s current state suggests abandonment or a deliberate end to its service, with its hull still partially visible above the shoreline.

History #

The unidentified barge near Pond Marina is a relic of Cape Vincent’s industrial maritime history. Likely constructed in the late 1800s or early 1900s, it reflects the era when wooden barges were essential for transporting vital materials like lumber, coal, and construction goods across Lake Ontario. Barges like this supported the economic growth of lakeside communities, ferrying goods between industrial sites and aiding infrastructure projects. Though its exact origins and service record remain unclear due to a lack of identifiable markings, this barge would have been part of the crucial transportation networks of the time.

As the years passed and transportation technology evolved, wooden barges became obsolete, replaced by advanced ships and alternative transportation methods like railways and motorized vehicles. Many of these barges, including the one near Pond Marina, were abandoned and left to decay. Today, this barge stands as a silent reminder of Cape Vincent’s bustling maritime past, slowly weathering away, yet offering a tangible connection to the local industry’s heyday.

Final Disposition #

The barge remains where it was last used, partially submerged near the shoreline. Although no longer in use, it has become a site of historical interest, representing the once vital maritime activities of Cape Vincent. Visitors are encouraged to observe the wreck from the shore and help preserve its remains.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories regarding this barge. It does not pose a navigational hazard but is recognized for its historical significance. Visitors should avoid disturbing the site to preserve its remnants.