Site Description #
- Sidewheeler
- 30ffw 9m
- 176ft Length
- Kemptfelt Bay, Lake Simcoe
- N 44 22.662 W 079 41.304
The Tale of J.C. Morrison: An Ill-Fated Steamer Sunk in History
In the summer of 1857, the J.C. MORRISON, a splendid steamer belonging to the Ontario, Simcoe, and Lake Huron Railway Company, fell victim to a devastating fire. The incident occurred on Lake Simcoe in Barrie, Ontario, and was reported in the Buffalo Daily Courier on August 6, 1857. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the tragic event.
The fire broke out around half-past 12 o’clock on Wednesday morning and quickly engulfed the J.C. MORRISON. The flames, originating near the fire place below deck, spread rapidly throughout the vessel, leaving little chance for extinguishing them. The passengers and crew members onboard had limited time to escape, leaving behind personal belongings and the boat’s valuable furniture, which were all lost to the fire.
Due to the northward wind, the safety of the nearby wharf and buildings was preserved. The boat was cleared from the wharf and set adrift on the bay, but this task proved challenging and dangerous due to the limited number of people present. Eventually, the J.C. MORRISON drifted to the next wharf, where initial attempts to clear it seemed futile. However, with the determination of those assembled and the assistance of the Fire Brigade, the vessel was once again set adrift, causing minimal damage.
As the J.C. MORRISON slowly sailed across the bay towards the station, it became a spectacle of flames, casting a haunting glow over the surrounding area. Within a short period, the boat grounded on the opposite shore and continued to burn until it was reduced to a mere shell at the water’s edge.
The incident proved to be a significant loss for the Ontario, Simcoe, and Lake Huron Railway Company, especially considering the increased business demand at that time. The loss also affected various stopping places on the lake, particularly Orillia, as the previous boat, MORNING, was inadequate to handle the growing traffic. Although an insurance policy covered the J.C. MORRISON, the exact amount of coverage remained undisclosed.
The passengers and crew members aboard the ill-fated steamer suffered serious losses. Captain Bell, in addition to losing important documents and personal belongings, experienced a sense of devastation as this was not his first encounter with fire-related incidents. Both Mr. Rolfe and Mr. Sutherland also sustained significant losses, including cash, notes, and valuable possessions like watches. Passengers such as Miss Rolfe narrowly escaped the flames, leaving behind most of their belongings. The fact that everyone managed to survive, despite being abruptly awakened and facing limited escape routes, was nothing short of a miracle.
The sympathies of the community were extended to the victims of the fire, many of whom had longstanding connections with the boat and had earned the respect of those who knew them. Captain Bell, in particular, received heartfelt sympathy, as he had previously suffered losses from three separate fire incidents. Known for his reliability and attentiveness, Captain Bell was not expected to be held accountable for the present fire incident.
Efforts were made to salvage the burnt wreck of the J.C. MORRISON. The Toronto Globe reported on August 6, 1857, that the remains of the vessel had sunk close to the railway depot, with only its walking beams visible above water. Subsequently, preparations were underway to raise the hull of the J.C. MORRISON as soon as weather conditions allowed, as reported in the Barrie Northern Advance on September 24, 1857.
In 1976, almost 120 years after the tragic incident, the burnt wreck of the J.C. MORRISON was located approximately 30 yards from the Barrie Sewage Outlet Pipe. This discovery served as a poignant reminder of the vessel’s fateful end and the events that unfolded on that ill-fated night in 1857
Diving into History #
Today, the remains of the J.C. Morrison lie in the depths of Lake Simcoe, a poignant reminder of its storied past. While the paddle wheels were removed and later returned, the hull is almost flattened, with only the walking arm, part of the engine, protruding towards the surface.
For diving enthusiasts, the J.C. Morrison is a captivating site to explore. Bass with attitude are said to frequent the wreck, while a plastic encased artifact case attached to the bow contains a clay tobacco pipe among its treasures. Follow the hull aft, and you’ll encounter a line leading to the city of Barrie’s water treatment outfall pipes, offering a unique opportunity for warmth and propulsion in the bathtub-warm waters.
While the wreck’s visibility can vary significantly due to weather and diver activity, it remains an attractive site for divers, especially as other locations may be closed due to weather conditions. However, caution should be exercised due to the presence of boats and fishermen in the area.
A Changing Wreck
With the passage of time and increased diver traffic, the J.C. Morrison’s once intact bow has been twisted 90 degrees to port. The wreck is now primarily in three parts, including the bow, the section with a large A-frame, and the remaining paddle wheel.
As we venture into the depths, let us cherish the historical significance of the J.C. Morrison and other underwater relics. Respect for these submerged structures ensures that future generations can also marvel at the tales hidden beneath the waves.
Note: Remember to exercise caution and observe safety protocols while exploring the J.C. Morrison. Enjoy your dive, but also preserve the site for the enjoyment of divers to come.
External Links #
Rules to Shore Dive by #
- Pick up after yourselves and others if need be
- Take only pictures, memories, and trash off the bottom
- Many shore dive sites are busiest on weekends so plan ahead
- Remember you’re the ambassador for the sport when approached by onlookers and locals. Paying attention and being polite can lead to other opportunities and locations.
- Have fun and lots of it after all that’s why you are there just like underwater beware of others around you for both positive and negative experiences
- If you’re the guy with the camera, video, or go pro, take a minute to show those outside your group what’s underneath.
