Unidentified Hull – Empress

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #


	Name: Unidentified Hull (Nicknamed “Empress”) Type: Steamer (Part of the Maple Fleet) Location: Amherst Island Graveyard, Lake Ontario Coordinates: N 44°12.563′ W 76°31.485′ Depth: The wreck lies at a depth of approximately 60 feet (18 meters).

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #

The “Empress” is an unidentified steamer, likely part of the Maple themed Canada Shipping Lines Fleet, scuttled in the 1920s. Measuring about 240 feet (73 meters) in length, this vessel was equipped with a boiler, indicating it was a steam-powered ship rather than a sailing vessel like a schooner. Steamers in the Maple Leaf Fleet were typically used for transporting goods and passengers across Lake Ontario and other Great Lakes, playing a crucial role in the region’s commerce during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The MapleFleet was a collection of vessels that were eventually retired, burnt and then scuttled as they became obsolete.

HISTORY #

The “Empress” is believed to be one of the vessels from the Maple Fleet, which were scuttled in the 1920s as part of decommissioning efforts. As steam technology advanced and newer ships replaced older models, many of these steamers were deliberately sunk to clear the way for more modern vessels or as a method of disposal. The Amherst Island Graveyard in Lake Ontario became the final resting place for several of these vessels, including the “Empress.”

While the specific history of the “Empress” remains unclear, its association with the Maple Fleet suggests it was once a workhorse of the Great Lakes, ferrying cargo and passengers across the waters. The decision to scuttle these ships marked the end of an era in Great Lakes shipping, as the fleet that had once been so vital to regional trade was gradually phased out.

FINAL DISPOSITION: #

The wreck of the “Empress” lies in 60 feet (18 meters) of water in the Amherst Island Graveyard. The site is characterized by the presence of a boiler, a key feature that confirms its identity as a steam-powered vessel. The hull remains largely intact, offering a glimpse into the past when steamers like the “Empress” were a common sight on Lake Ontario.

Divers exploring the wreck will find the structure encrusted with zebra mussels, and although the ship has deteriorated over time, significant portions of the hull and machinery are still visible. The wreck provides an opportunity to study early 20th-century shipbuilding techniques and the transition from sail to steam power in Great Lakes shipping.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #

Divers should be aware of potential hazards, such as strong currents and boat traffic, when exploring the “Empress.” It is essential to check for any Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or local advisories before diving. Proper safety precautions, including the use of dive flags and surface markers, are advised due to the site’s location in a relatively busy waterway.

RESOURCES & LINKS: #

The “Empress” serves as a significant piece of the Maple Leaf Fleet’s legacy, representing a time when steam power was at the forefront of maritime innovation. Its final resting place in the Amherst Island Graveyard offers a unique dive experience, allowing divers to connect with the history of steam navigation on the Great Lakes. The possibility that this wreck could be part of a known fleet adds to the allure of the site, making it a valuable destination for both historical research and underwater exploration.