IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
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VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The unidentified vessel is a barge, a type of flat-bottomed boat often used for transporting heavy or bulk cargo such as timber, coal, or construction materials across the Great Lakes. Barges like this one were a critical component of the commercial activity on the lakes, providing an economical means of moving large quantities of goods. The barge is made of wood, typical of vessels built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
DISCOVERY AND SITE DESCRIPTION #
In 2022, the barge was discovered during a scanning operation around Fox Island and Little Grenadier Island in Lake Ontario. The wreck lies in shallow water, approximately 8 to 10 feet deep, on a rocky shoal in the southwest corner of Fox Island. The coordinates for the wreck are N 44° 2’12.16″ – W 76°20’16.56″.
The barge is partially buried in the rocky shoal, indicating that it has likely been in its current location for a considerable period, potentially decades. The shallow depth and the vessel’s condition suggest that the barge has become integrated into the lakebed over time, with parts of the structure worn down or broken by the elements.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT #
Lake Ontario has a rich history of barge traffic, especially during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Barges were essential for transporting bulk goods across the lake, contributing significantly to the region’s economy. The unidentified barge may have been part of this commercial activity, and its grounding on the shoal could have been the result of a storm, navigational error, or mechanical failure.
The lack of specific identification for the barge means that its exact history remains speculative. However, its presence on the shoal adds to the understanding of maritime activities in the region, highlighting the challenges faced by vessels operating in the often treacherous waters of Lake Ontario.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SITE #
The discovery of this barge wreck is significant as it provides a glimpse into the maritime history of Lake Ontario, particularly regarding the use of barges for transporting goods. The site’s shallow depth makes it accessible for exploration, but the rocky environment presents challenges for preserving the wreck and conducting detailed studies.
Further investigation of the wreck could reveal more about its construction, origins, and the circumstances leading to its grounding. This information would contribute to the broader understanding of the role of barges in Great Lakes commerce.
FUTURE EXPLORATION AND PRESERVATION #
The barge wreck near Fox Island is a valuable archaeological resource that merits further exploration. Detailed surveys, including underwater archaeology, could help uncover more information about the vessel’s history and construction. Preservation efforts should focus on protecting the site from unauthorized disturbances and ensuring that it is documented thoroughly for future research.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes – A comprehensive resource for information on shipwrecks and maritime incidents on Lake Ontario.
- Great Lakes Shipwreck Preservation Society – An organization dedicated to the preservation and exploration of shipwrecks in the Great Lakes.
- Shipwreck Stories – A platform for sharing narratives and updates on shipwreck discoveries, including unidentified wrecks in Lake Ontario.
- Underwater Archaeology Research Center – Focused on the study and preservation of submerged cultural resources, this organization may provide support and information regarding the exploration of the barge wreck near Fox Island.
PhotoGallery Daniel Gildea 2024cc
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Second Model by Daniel Gildea Summer 2024
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RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes – A comprehensive resource for information on shipwrecks and maritime incidents on Lake Ontario.
- Great Lakes Shipwreck Preservation Society – An organization dedicated to the preservation and exploration of shipwrecks in the Great Lakes.
- Shipwreck Stories – A platform for sharing narratives and updates on shipwreck discoveries, including unidentified wrecks in Lake Ontario.
- Underwater Archaeology Research Center – Focused on the study and preservation of submerged cultural resources, this organization may provide support and information regarding the exploration of the barge wreck near Fox Island.
