IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
The R.H. Rae was a three-masted wooden barque, a vessel type renowned for its strength and adaptability during the 19th century. Constructed in 1857, this ship was a testament to advanced shipbuilding techniques of the era, featuring innovative designs such as Cunningham’s patented self-reefing topsail and iron reinforcements behind each mast. These features were intended to make the R.H. Rae a formidable participant in trans-Atlantic trade, capable of withstanding the unpredictable weather conditions encountered on the Great Lakes and beyond.
Vessel Construction and Design #
Launched in October 1857, the R.H. Rae quickly gained an A-1 classification, a mark of excellence in shipbuilding. Its 136-foot length, 23-foot beam, and 11-foot depth provided ample space and stability, crucial for long voyages. The ship’s gross tonnage of 344 tons underscored its capacity to carry substantial cargo, such as the wheat it was transporting on its fateful final voyage.
The ship’s design was ahead of its time, incorporating a split rudder system and iron bars for additional reinforcement, ensuring that the vessel could withstand the harsh conditions it would face. These innovations made the R.H. Rae not only a robust cargo vessel but also a symbol of the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the 19th-century maritime industry.
The Final Voyage #
In August 1858, less than a year after its launch, the R.H. Rae embarked on what would be its final voyage. Laden with wheat and bound for Montreal, the ship encountered a severe storm near Duck’s Creek in Lake Ontario. Despite the advanced design features, the vessel was unable to withstand the ferocity of the storm and capsized. The crew’s lives were spared, thanks to a timely rescue by the steamer COLONIST, but the R.H. Rae was lost to the lake’s depths.
Salvage Attempts and Rediscovery #
Efforts to salvage the ship in 1859 proved futile, and the R.H. Rae remained undisturbed at the bottom of Lake Ontario for over a century. It wasn’t until 1976 that Barb Carson first located the wreck, but it was rediscovered in 1996 by the Ducks Dive team, led by Chris Kohl.
Today, the wreck lies at coordinates N 43° 53.035′ W 76° 50.515′, submerged under 90 feet of water. Despite its time underwater, the R.H. Rae remains in remarkable condition. Divers can still observe significant portions of the hull, bow, and the distinctive split rudder system. The site is also scattered with historical artifacts, including blocks, deadeyes, and various tools, offering a tangible connection to the ship’s past.
Final Disposition #
The wreck of the R.H. Rae is a well-preserved relic of 19th-century maritime history, providing a unique opportunity for divers and historians alike to explore a piece of the past. Its relatively intact structure and the artifacts found on site serve as a poignant reminder of the perils faced by ships and sailors on the Great Lakes. The story of the R.H. Rae, from its innovative construction to its tragic end, continues to captivate those who dive to its final resting place, deep within the waters of Lake Ontario.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the R.H. Rae wreck site. Divers planning to explore the site should check the latest maritime advisories and weather conditions before diving.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
Ducks Dive/Chris Kohl in 1996 #
Photo Gallery #
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RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Link
- Chris Kohl’s “Great Lakes Shipwrecks and Survivals”: Provides detailed accounts and maps for Great Lakes shipwrecks.
CONCLUSION #
The wreck of the R.H. Rae offers a rare opportunity to explore a piece of 19th-century maritime history. Its innovative design, combined with the tragic circumstances of its sinking, provides valuable insights into the challenges of early Great Lakes navigation. The site is not only important for historical study but also serves as a popular destination for recreational divers, allowing them to experience a well-preserved shipwreck firsthand.
R.H. Rae, Schooner, Barque, Lake Ontario Shipwreck, Main Duck Island, 1858 Shipwreck, Maritime History, Public Diving Site, Cunningham Topsail.
