IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION: #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The Wanakewan was a wooden steamer constructed in 1910 in Kingston, Ontario. With a length of 70 feet, the vessel was designed to be sturdy and reliable, well-suited for navigating the various waterways of Canada. Equipped with a screw propulsion system, the Wanakewan could efficiently and smoothly traverse the waters, ensuring a stable journey for both passengers and cargo.
HISTORY: #
The Wanakewan embarked on its maiden voyages in the Georgian Bay, where it initially served the transportation needs of the region. The vessel’s robust design and dependable performance made it a valuable asset for its owners, contributing to the connectivity and economic activity in the area.
In 1912, the Wanakewan was relocated to Ottawa, where it continued its service. This move allowed the vessel to explore new routes and cater to the evolving demands of its passengers and cargo, further establishing its role in the regional transportation network.
By 1922, the Wanakewan expanded its reach once more, this time relocating to Lake Temiskaming. Here, the steamer continued to support maritime activities, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the lake. The vessel’s adaptability and service across multiple regions underscore its importance in Canada’s maritime history.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
The Wanakewan’s active service eventually came to an end near Ville Marie, Quebec. The exact date of the vessel’s abandonment remains unknown, but records indicate that it was ultimately left to rest near this location. The abandonment of the Wanakewan marked the conclusion of its operational life, a vessel that had once played a vital role in connecting communities and supporting transportation across Canadian waters.
The final resting place of the Wanakewan serves as a testament to the vessel’s contributions to Canadian maritime history. Although it no longer sails, its legacy endures in the memories of those who experienced its journeys and in the historical records that document its service.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the Wanakewan have been identified.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Maritime History of Canada: Provides records and historical accounts related to vessels operating in Canada’s lakes and rivers.
- Kingston Maritime Archives: For further research into the history of vessels like the Wanakewan and their contributions to regional transportation.
CONCLUSION: #
The Wanakewan was a resilient steamer that served various regions across Canada, from Georgian Bay to Ottawa and Lake Temiskaming. Its final abandonment near Ville Marie, Quebec, marks the end of its active service but not the end of its legacy. The Wanakewan remains a significant part of Canadian maritime history, remembered for its role in connecting communities and facilitating commerce across the country’s waterways.
KEYWORDS: #
Wanakewan, Steamer, Kingston Ontario, Georgian Bay, Ottawa, Lake Temiskaming, 20th-century maritime history, wooden shipwreck, Ville Marie Quebec, Canadian Maritime History.
