IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The Hiram A. Calvin was a sidewheel steamer, primarily used as a wrecker and towboat on the St. Lawrence River. Its sturdy construction and large dimensions made it well-suited for towing and salvage operations, which were essential services in the busy waters of the Great Lakes. The vessel’s sidewheel design was typical of river steamers of the era, allowing it to navigate both shallow and deep waters effectively.
HISTORY: #
The Hiram A. Calvin was built in 1868 at Garden Island, Ontario, for Hiram A. Calvin & Son. The vessel served as a reliable wrecker and towboat for several decades, playing a crucial role in assisting ships in distress and towing barges along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. On December 31, 1895, the Hiram A. Calvin met its tragic end during a severe southwesterly storm. The vessel was torn loose from its moorings at Garden Island and carried down the St. Lawrence River. It initially grounded at Ferguson’s Point but was refloated by rising water levels. Unfortunately, it later struck rocks at Halliday’s Point, where it was severely damaged and eventually sank.
The violent storm on December 31, 1895, led to the Hiram A. Calvin being torn from its moorings and carried downstream. After grounding and being refloated, it finally met its demise at Halliday’s Point, where it was stranded on rocks. The pounding waves pierced the steamer’s bottom planking, causing it to fill with water and ultimately sink. Despite the catastrophic damage, there were no casualties as the vessel was unmanned during the incident. Conflicting reports suggest the ship may have been destroyed by fire or ice, but the prevailing narrative is that it was wrecked during the storm.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the Hiram A. Calvin wreck. Divers are advised to check local conditions and any general advisories for Lake Ontario before diving.
LOCATED BY & DATE: #
The wreck has been known to local divers and historians for many years. The exact date of its discovery is not well-documented, but it has been a part of the region’s maritime history since the early 20th century.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY: #
The wreck of the Hiram A. Calvin lies in a state of significant decay due to its age and the conditions of the lake. However, the site remains accessible to divers and is of particular interest to those exploring the history of Great Lakes shipping and wrecking. The wreck is relatively shallow, making it suitable for divers of various skill levels. Visibility in the area can vary, and caution is advised due to potential hazards such as sharp metal and entanglement risks.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Website
- Marine Museum of the Great Lakes – Mills List
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Great Lakes Ships
