IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The J.C. Morrison was a sidewheel steamer, measuring 176 feet (54 meters) in length. Sidewheel steamers were common in the mid-19th century, used for both passenger and cargo transport across the Great Lakes and inland waterways. The J.C. Morrison was part of the fleet operated by the Ontario, Simcoe, and Lake Huron Railway Company, serving as a vital link for communities around Lake Simcoe. Sidewheel steamers were characterized by their large paddle wheels mounted on the sides, which were powered by steam engines. These vessels were known for their elegant design and ability to navigate shallow waters, making them ideal for the varied conditions of the Great Lakes region.
HISTORY #
The J.C. Morrison met a tragic end on the night of August 5, 1857, when a fire broke out on board while it was docked in Barrie, Ontario. The fire, which started around 12:30 AM, quickly consumed the vessel. Despite efforts to save the steamer by casting it adrift to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures, the J.C. Morrison was ultimately lost. The steamer drifted across Kempenfelt Bay, burning until it grounded on the opposite shore, where it continued to burn until little more than a charred hull remained.
The fire was a significant loss for the Ontario, Simcoe, and Lake Huron Railway Company, as the J.C. Morrison was a key asset in their fleet. The incident was reported in various newspapers, including the Buffalo Daily Courier and the Toronto Globe, highlighting the scale of the disaster and the impact on the local community.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
The remains of the J.C. Morrison now rest in Kempenfelt Bay, approximately 30 yards from the Barrie Sewage Outlet Pipe. Discovered in 1976, the wreck is largely flattened, with the hull barely visible above the lakebed. However, the walking beam, part of the engine, still protrudes towards the surface, serving as a reminder of the vessel’s former grandeur. The paddle wheels were removed but were later returned to the site.
The wreck site is a popular destination for divers, offering a chance to explore a piece of Lake Simcoe’s maritime history. Bass are known to frequent the site, adding to the underwater experience. The wreck has changed over time, with the bow now twisted 90 degrees to port and the site divided into three main sections: the bow, a large A-frame section, and the remaining paddle wheel. Despite these changes, the site remains a captivating dive, with artifacts such as a clay tobacco pipe preserved in a plastic case at the bow.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
Divers should exercise caution while exploring the J.C. Morrison due to the presence of boats and fishermen in the area. It’s important to check for any Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or local advisories before diving. The site is accessible, but visibility can vary significantly depending on weather and diver activity. Proper safety measures, including the use of dive flags and surface markers, are recommended.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
The wreck of the J.C. Morrison offers a unique window into the past, allowing divers to connect with a significant piece of Ontario’s maritime history. As with all dive sites, respect for the wreck and adherence to safety protocols ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from this underwater relic.
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.
