Identification & Site Information
Vessel Type Description The M. Lalonde was a river barge, specifically designed for the transportation of bulk goods along the waterways of Quebec and the Great Lakes. Unlike traditional sailing vessels, this barge was built without masts, relying on towing or being pushed by tugboats for movement. Its distinctive round stern further set it apart from other vessels of the time, making it a specialized craft for navigating the rivers and canals of the region.
History The M. Lalonde was constructed in 1875 at Coteau Landing, Quebec, by a builder known only as Jules. The barge was initially owned by L. Lalonde of Coteau Landing, indicating a strong connection between the vessel and its place of origin. With its considerable size and tonnage, the M. Lalonde was well-suited for the transportation of large quantities of cargo across the waterways it frequented.
In 1879, the barge was chartered by the Montreal Transportation Co., marking a significant chapter in its operational history. This period saw the M. Lalonde becoming involved in the infamous “Bohemian incident” of 1880. The collision of a steamer with the lock gate in the Lachine Canal resulted in the draining of the basin above Lock Two, which had dire consequences for several vessels, including the M. Lalonde. The barge’s hold filled with water to a depth of 4 feet, leading to the loss of 3,000 bushels of cargo.
It is believed that the Montreal Transportation Co. may have acquired ownership of the M. Lalonde in the fall of 1880, further integrating the vessel into its fleet. However, by 1884, the barge had changed hands again, coming under the ownership of Paradis of Montreal.
Final Disposition The M. Lalonde met a tragic end in 1884 when it foundered on Lake Ontario. The exact circumstances of the foundering are not well-documented, but the loss marked the end of the vessel’s service. The barge’s registry was officially closed on April 2, 1887, signifying the formal conclusion of its seafaring days.
NOTMARs & Advisories There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the M. Lalonde, as it was a river barge primarily operating in the rivers and canals before it foundered in Lake Ontario.
Located By & Date The wreck of the M. Lalonde has not been located, and the exact site of its foundering in Lake Ontario remains unknown.
Current Condition & Accessibility Given that the M. Lalonde foundered in 1884 and the wreck has not been located, there are no known remains accessible for exploration. The vessel’s loss contributes to the numerous mysteries of Great Lakes shipwrecks, where many vessels have disappeared without a trace.
Resources & Links
- Great Lakes Ships: Provides information and histories of ships that sailed the Great Lakes, including the M. Lalonde.
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: A comprehensive resource for historical data on Great Lakes vessels.
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: Contains detailed records and descriptions of shipwrecks, potentially including the M. Lalonde.
- Divers Alert Magazine: Offers articles and resources related to diving, including historical shipwrecks and safety information.
Keywords M. Lalonde, Lalonde river barge, Bohemian incident, Lachine Canal, Montreal Transportation Co., Lake Ontario, shipwreck, maritime history, Great Lakes
Analysis The M. Lalonde was a significant vessel in the maritime history of Quebec and the Great Lakes, representing the specialized river barges that were crucial for the transportation of bulk goods across the region’s waterways. The vessel’s involvement in the Bohemian incident of 1880 and its subsequent foundering in 1884 highlight the challenges faced by ships operating in the often treacherous conditions of the Great Lakes and surrounding areas. The loss of the M. Lalondein Lake Ontario remains a poignant reminder of the many vessels that were lost during this era, often without leaving behind any trace. The closure of the vessel’s registry in 1887 marks the end of its story, but the legacy of the M. Lalondelives on in the annals of maritime history.
