DAVID G. THOMSON C85306

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #

Wreck Name: DAVID G. THOMSON
Official Number: C 85306
Type: Wooden Lake Tugboat
Date of Incident: March 26, 1927
Location: Tecumseh Reef, Lake Erie
Depth: Not specified; location known as a hazardous area for ships
Condition: Lost on Tecumseh Reef, wreck unsalvaged; registry closed on August 11, 1927

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The DAVID G. THOMSON was a wooden lake tug, notable for its robust construction and role in towing coal and grain barges on Lake Ontario. It was initially launched on June 25, 1883, in Kingston by R. Robertson. The tug featured a round stern design and was equipped with engines taken from the tug CHAMPION, providing a total of 200 rated horsepower. In 1892, the tug underwent significant modifications, including the installation of a new fore and aft compound engine and boiler, boosting its power to 400 indicated horsepower and 200 rated horsepower.

HISTORY #

The DAVID G. THOMSON served for over four decades, primarily under the ownership of the Montreal Transportation Co. The tug was involved in numerous incidents throughout its career, including groundings, damage from storms, and a seizure by American authorities in 1887. Despite these challenges, the vessel continued to operate, playing a vital role in the transportation and salvage operations on the Great Lakes.

The tug’s valuation fluctuated over the years, reflecting its wear and tear, as well as market conditions. From an initial valuation of $13,000 in 1890, its value rose to $16,000 in 1897 before declining to $8,000 in 1903 and finally $12,150 by 1920.

Notably, the THOMSON was involved in a significant salvage operation in July 1918, assisting in the recovery of the vessels ARABIAN and SIMLA. The tug also participated in the towing of various vessel parts across Lake Ontario during 1918 and 1919.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

The DAVID G. THOMSON met its final fate on March 26, 1927, when it was lost on Tecumseh Reef in Lake Erie—the same location where it had been wrecked twenty years earlier in 1907. Unlike the previous incident, this time the vessel could not be salvaged. The wreck remained on the reef, and its registry was officially closed on August 11, 1927.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #

No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are related to this wreck site.

LOCATED BY & DATE #

The exact coordinates of the wreck are not specified, but the location is well-known as Tecumseh Reef, a notorious hazard for ships on Lake Erie. The site has not been actively marked or salvaged.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #

Given the passage of time and the circumstances of the wreck, the DAVID G. THOMSON is likely in a deteriorated state. As the wreck was not salvaged, it is presumed to remain on Tecumseh Reef. The site’s accessibility is dependent on the water depth and conditions, which could pose challenges for diving and exploration.

RESOURCES & LINKS #

Primary Sources: Extensive records from the Montreal Transportation Co., various maritime logs, and historical newspaper articles.
Further Reading: Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, Canadian Heritage Ship Information Database, Inland Lloyd’s Vessel Register.

CONCLUSION #

The DAVID G. THOMSON’s long and eventful career reflects the challenges faced by tugboats operating on the Great Lakes. From groundings to legal disputes and eventual loss, the tug’s history is marked by resilience and service. Its final wreck on Tecumseh Reef in 1927 closes the chapter on a vessel that played a significant role in the maritime operations of its time. The THOMSON’s story is a testament to the enduring hazards of the Great Lakes and the vital role of tugboats in supporting commerce and navigation.