Identification & Site Information
Vessel Type Description The Olive Branch was a wooden schooner, a type of vessel that was commonly used on the Great Lakes during the 19th century for transporting bulk goods. Schooners like the Olive Branch typically had two or more masts with fore-and-aft rigged sails, making them well-suited for the varying wind conditions on the Great Lakes. This particular schooner was built with a single deck and was designed for the efficient transportation of cargo across the region.
History The Olive Branch was constructed in 1871 by W. Redman in Picton, Ontario, and was initially owned by Walter Ross, also of Picton. The schooner had a long and eventful history, with several ownership changes over its years of operation.
The vessel was first owned by Thomas Wellbanks and others from South Marysburg, Ontario, from October 1, 1871. It then passed into the hands of Joseph Dix of Garden Island, Ontario, on February 29, 1872. Shortly after, on March 8, 1872, ownership transferred to Christopher Harris of Storrington, Ontario, who, along with others, owned the schooner until April 18, 1876. The final ownership change occurred on February 28, 1877, when Andrew Ault and others from Kingston, Ontario, took possession.
Tragically, on September 30, 1880, the Olive Branch met its final fate during a gale while carrying a cargo of 200 tons of coal. The schooner foundered and capsized approximately 4 miles east of False Duck Islands in Lake Ontario, leading to the loss of the entire crew of five. The incident was witnessed by the captains of three nearby vessels—the Huron, Fitzhugh, and Augusta—who reported seeing the schooner in distress before it disappeared from view around noon.
Reports indicated that only a portion of the Olive Branch‘s foresail and jib remained as it struggled against the heavy sea conditions. Although the captains were unable to offer assistance due to their distance from the sinking vessel, their accounts, along with that of the captain of the schooner Dudley, who later spotted the topmast of a vessel protruding above the water, confirmed the disaster.
Final Disposition The Olive Branch now lies at the coordinates N 43°55.900′ W 76°44.269′, approximately 4 miles east of False Duck Islands in Lake Ontario. The wreck is remarkably well-preserved, sitting upright on the lakebed with many of its features intact, including the ship’s wheel, masts, anchors, and various artifacts.
Diving the Olive Branch The Olive Branch is a popular dive site due to its intact condition and the wealth of artifacts still present on the wreck. Divers can explore the ship’s wheel in its original position, deadeyes, anchors, blocks, and even personal items such as the sole of a shoe and a large saucer in pristine condition. The wreck sits at the base of a shoal, creating a picturesque and historically rich underwater environment.
Water Conditions Visibility at the Olive Branch dive site can range from 10 to 60 feet (3 to 18 meters), depending on weather and water conditions. Water temperatures typically range from the high 30s to mid 40s Fahrenheit (4 to 7 degrees Celsius), so divers should be prepared with appropriate thermal protection to ensure a safe and comfortable dive.
NOTMARs & Advisories There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the Olive Branch wreck site. However, given its location and preservation state, the site is of significant interest to divers and maritime historians.
Located By & Date The wreck of the Olive Branch was confirmed by various accounts from the time of the disaster and has since been explored by divers, with notable documentation and 3D models created by Corey Phillips and others in 2023.
Current Condition & Accessibility The Olive Branch is in a state of remarkable preservation, offering divers a unique opportunity to explore a nearly intact 19th-century schooner. The wreck is accessible to divers, though conditions can vary, and appropriate preparation is required.
Resources & Links
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: Contains detailed records and descriptions of shipwrecks, including the Olive Branch.
- Great Lakes Ships: Provides information and histories of ships that sailed the Great Lakes, including the Olive Branch.
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: A comprehensive resource for historical data on Great Lakes vessels.
- Naval Marine Institute: Offers historical data and records on naval and maritime vessels.
Keywords Olive Branch, schooner, Lake Ontario, False Duck Islands, shipwreck, coal cargo, maritime history, Great Lakes, diving
Analysis The Olive Branch stands as a significant relic of Great Lakes maritime history, embodying the challenges faced by sailors and vessels during the 19th century. Its construction in 1871, subsequent service, and eventual loss in 1880 highlight the dangers of maritime transport, particularly during harsh weather conditions. The fact that the wreck remains upright and largely intact allows for a unique exploration experience, offering insights into the ship’s construction, operation, and the lives of those who sailed on her. The presence of artifacts and well-preserved structural elements makes the Olive Branch an invaluable resource for both divers and historians, contributing to the ongoing study and appreciation of the region’s maritime heritage
