Ubique III (formerly Jay’s Liner, Wilema, R.J. Foote) C171934 (Bermingham Crane)

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #

Name: Ubique III (formerly Jay’s Liner, Wilema, R.J. Foote)
Type: Steel Tugboat
Location: Lake Ontario, just out of Oakville Harbour, Oakville, Ontario
Coordinates: N 43° 26.021′ W 079° 36.985′
Dimensions:
- Length: 35 feet 1 inch
- Beam: 10 feet 6 inches
- Depth: 4 feet 8 inches
Depth of Wreck: 150 feet
Gross Tonnage: 9 tons
Net Tonnage: 8 tons
Propulsion: 125 horsepower engine
Builder: Owen Sound, 1939
Registry Number: C.171934

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The Ubique III was a small steel tugboat, originally built in 1939 at Owen Sound, Ontario. Known for its durability and efficiency, the tug had a significant role in assisting with the movement of barges and other maritime operations. Its design was typical of mid-20th-century tugs, characterized by a compact yet robust structure that allowed it to perform demanding tasks in various weather conditions.

HISTORY #

The Ubique III had a long and varied history, marked by several changes in ownership and name. Initially launched in 1939, the tug served various roles under different names: Jay’s Liner, Wilema, and R.J. Foote. The vessel was sold to the United States in 1942 and operated as Wilema during World War II. After the war, it returned to Canada and was renamed Jay’s Liner. In 1948, it was acquired by Bermingham Construction Ltd. of Hamilton, Ontario, and received its final name, Ubique III.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

The Ubique III met its unfortunate end while pushing a barge on Lake Ontario. The exact details of its sinking are not well-documented, but it is believed that it went down during one of its operational missions. The wreck was unidentified until it was accidentally discovered during recovery operations following an aircraft crash in Toronto Harbour during an airshow at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE).

Subsequent dives by a team from the National Diving Association, including Tom Rutledge and Ian Marshal, confirmed the identity of the sunken tug. The discovery of the Ubique III provided valuable information about the vessel’s history and closure to its mysterious disappearance.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #

The wreck of the Ubique III lies at a depth of 150 feet off the coast of Oakville, Ontario, in Lake Ontario. The site is a fascinating dive location, though the depth and conditions make it more suitable for experienced divers. The wreck is in relatively good condition, considering its age and the circumstances of its sinking. Divers exploring the site can expect to see the intact structure of the tug, offering a glimpse into the maritime history of the Great Lakes.