Identification & Site Information

• Name: T.J. Waffle
• Type: Steamer
• Official Number: 130767
• Built: 1914, Westport, Ontario
• Initial Owner: T.J. & W.J. Waffle, Smiths Falls
• Subsequent Owners:
• A. Foster, Smiths Falls (1916)
• J. Swift & Co., Kingston, Ontario (1919)

Vessel Type Description

The T.J. Waffle was a steam-powered vessel built for cargo transport and general transportation purposes. As a Steamer, it played a crucial role in the shipping and trade economy of the Great Lakes region in the early 20th century. Steamers like the T.J. Waffle were valued for their capacity to move goods efficiently and were a common sight on the lakes during this era.

History

Constructed in 1914, the T.J. Waffle had a dynamic history, with multiple ownership changes over its brief five-year lifespan. Initially owned by T.J. & W.J. Waffle of Smiths Falls, the vessel was sold to A. Foster in 1916 and later to J. Swift & Co. in 1919, which operated out of Kingston, Ontario. The vessel’s route primarily involved the transport of goods across the Great Lakes, vital to regional commerce.

On September 22, 1919, the T.J. Waffle departed from Fairhaven, New York, destined for Kingston, Ontario. During its voyage, the vessel encountered heavy weather, leading to its tragic disappearance. Wreckage later washed ashore at Burt Point, near Oswego, New York, showing signs of severe damage. Initial theories suggested the Steamer either suffered a boiler explosion or was violently overwhelmed by the storm’s force.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the T.J. Waffle remained undiscovered for over a century. However, on August 22, 2020, the wreck was believed to have been located by Tim Caza and Dennis Gerber. Situated more than 20 miles off Oswego, New York, the wreck showed signs of the violent destruction consistent with its reported demise. This discovery provided closure to a 101-year-old mystery.

The Victims

The sinking of the T.J. Waffle claimed the lives of eight people, including:

• Captain Charles Beaupre
• William Switzer
• Engineer Russel David
• Mate William Sweet and his wife, Mrs. William Sweet

The identities of the remaining crew members remain unknown, highlighting the human cost of maritime disasters during this era.

Located By & Date Found

• Discovery: Tim Caza and Dennis Gerber (www.sonarguy.com)
• Date Found: August 22, 2020
• Location: Over 20 miles off Oswego, New York

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the T.J. Waffle wreck.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Website
• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Resource for historical and wreck details
• Great Lakes Ships: Archival information and ship records
• SonarGuy: Website for wreck location and imaging technology

3D Model – www.sonarguy.com

Lake Ontario Steamer T.J. Waffle by Capt. Tim Caza on Sketchfab

Keywords

#Lake Ontario Shipwrecks #Early 20th Century Steamers #T.J. Waffle #Maritime Disasters #Great Lakes Transportation