The Great Lakes Underwater Craft Encyclopedia of all things Shotline Diving Related
IRA CHAFFEE U12131
The IRA CHAFFEE was built in 1867 in Allegan, Michigan, under the watchful eye of shipbuilder Auretias McMillan. This propeller steam barge was crafted from wood, reflecting the prevalent shipbuilding practices of the time. With dimensions of 127.6 feet in length, 25.6 feet in beam, and 8.15 feet in depth, the vessel boasted a gross tonnage of 193.62 tons and a net tonnage of 116.12 tons. Powered by a 2-cylinder engine measuring 24 x 24 inches, the IRA CHAFFEE relied on a single screw for propulsion.
IRON KING Later CANOBIE C133826
The history of the Great Lakes is intertwined with the stories of numerous vessels, each with its own tale to tell. One such vessel is the Canobie, previously known as the Iron King. Built in 1887 by the Detroit Dry Dock Company in Detroit, Michigan, this wooden propeller bulk freighter experienced a tragic fate in the stormy waters of Lake Erie.
ISAAC BUCHANAN
The schooner Isaac Buchanan, officially registered with no No., was a wooden schooner that was built in 1852 in Port Stanley, Ontario. It had a tonnage of 180 tons. On October 26, 1857, the Isaac Buchanan, along with the steamer Free Trader, three wheat warehouses, and a hotel, was destroyed by a fire that broke out at Port Stanley, Ontario, on the shores of Lake Erie. The fire started on the steamer and quickly spread to the Buchanan, resulting in both vessels becoming total losses. Fortunately, there were no reported fatalities.
Frequently Asked Questions
About SLD
- How do I contact Shotline Diving for more information
For inquiries, please email us at
- [info@shotlinediving.com](mailto:info@shotlinediving.com) or use our
- [Contact Form](#) on the website. We’ll be happy to assist you
- How can I stay updated on Shotline Diving’s activities?
You can stay updated by following us on our social media channels, subscribing to our newsletter, and checking our website for announcements and event details.
- Facebook [facebook.com/shotlinediving](#)
- Instagram:** [@shotlinediving](#)
- Twitter:** [@shotlinediving](#)
- info@shotlinediving.com
- Do you offer educational programs?
Yes, we offer workshops, seminars, and training sessions to educate the public about diving, marine conservation, and the history of the Great Lakes. Check our events calendar for upcoming educational opportunities and regularly participate all over the Great Lakes.
- How can I support Shotline Diving’s mission?
You can support us by joining our community, but also by volunteering for events, or making a donation to fund conservation and exploration initiatives in the non-profits that work hard in the Great Lakes Community Every contribution helps us continue our work in preserving the Great Lakes.
- Can non-divers get involved with Shotline Diving?
Absolutely! We welcome non-divers who are interested in supporting our mission. There are opportunities to help with planning events, participating in conservation efforts, and contributing to research projects.
- How does Shotline Diving contribute to conservation efforts?
We actively participate in underwater clean-up projects, monitor the health of marine ecosystems, and collaborate with environmental organizations to promote conservation. Our members are committed to protecting the Great Lakes and their unique underwater environments. Most have held or are still serving board members of the various groups running Conservation efforts, our only goal is to enhance what is present.
We don't have the mandate to do all the work gratefully done by others, only the collection of diving and the history of the Great Lakes. - How do you ensure safety during dives?
Safety is paramount in all our activities. Our experienced dive leaders conduct pre-dive briefings, equipment checks, and adhere to established safety protocols. We encourage all members to maintain current dive certifications and skills at the highest level achieved. (Dive Master, Instructor excluded)
- Are there any age restrictions for joining dives?
Divers must be at least 12 years old to participate. Those under 18 must have parental consent and be accompanied by a parent or guardian during activities., Presently all members are Adults, all members are required to conduct themselves accordingly and are not responsible for oversight unless diver is on a buddy team, then the default team rules apply.
Everybody is responsible for thier own actions, gear, transportation and otherwise. SLD only collects the data you record. - What equipment do I need to participate?
Participants are required to bring/own all their own diving gear, including a wetsuit, mask, snorkel, fins, BCD, and regulator.. We have no funds or freebies to give away so all costs are borne by the user. All we can provide is tasks and locations. If you need to rent equipment, we can recommend local dive shops that offer rentals.
- What types of dives does Shotline Diving organize
We focus on various types of dives, including:
- Non-touch Diving Data collection,
- Underwater Photography Capturing the beauty of aquatic life and submerged landscapes
- Assisting in mooring work when required
- Shipwreck Exploration - Investigating the historical shipwrecks of the Great Lakes.,
- Research Dives Conducting scientific studies and data collection on marine ecosystems.
- Conservation Projects - Engaging in efforts to preserve and restore underwater habitats.
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- Do I need to be certified to dive with Shotline Diving?
While certification is required for certain activities, we also offer beginner-friendly opportunities and training sessions for those interested in learning in 3DModeling, Photography, These activities are normall conducted in the off season. Please check our event schedule for upcoming training sessions.
- How can I join Shotline Diving?
To participate or join us, please visit our [Membership Page](#) to complete an application form. Membership is free, but we encourage donations to support our conservation and exploration efforts by donating directly to those groups. As we are self funded and have no means to collect them. for a can also contact us at [info@shotlinediving.com](mailto:info@shotlinediving.com) for more information.
- Is Shotline Diving open to new members?
Yes, we welcome divers of all skill levels who share our passion for underwater exploration and conservation. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a newcomer looking to get involved, there’s a place for you in our community. The Region is large and whole under represented. Have one little measly dive document it, submit it and thats all thats needed, have lots of wrecks. Well lack of friends won’t be an issue, and we’d be happy to help.
- What activities does Shotline Diving participate or offer?
We participate a variety of diving activities, including:
Exploratory Dives. Discovering and documenting underwater sites, such as shipwrecks and natural formations.Conservation Efforts: Participating in clean-up dives and initiatives to protect the underwater environment.
Community Events: Attending/Presenting in workshops, seminars, and social gatherings to promote diving and marine conservation.
Skill Development: Offering training sessions to enhance diving skills and safety practices, underwater activities are cost related and offered outside of SLD
- Where are you located?
Offically We are based in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, and Clayton, New York USA but our activities primarily focus on the Great Lakes region, including Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, and Lake Superior. Plus related waterways.
- Who or What is Shotline Diving?
Shotline Diving is a volunteer-based group of passionate divers dedicated to exploring and preserving the underwater wonders of the Great Lakes and surrounding regions. Our Only mission is to promote awareness and appreciation for the rich maritime history and natural beauty beneath the surface, by contributing to the 3DShipwrecks.org project, finally creating a one stop information resource and badly needed Sitemaps.