Type of Wreck: Dredger
Location of Wreck: Lemoine Point GPS N44.12.5690 W76.36.4960
The dredge Munson, based in Belleville, had the important task of maintaining adequate water depth at harbor entrances and similar contracts. One of its notable assignments was to ensure the successful launch of the Minnedosa, a new and impressive four-masted Canadian sailing vessel, at Kingston on April 26, 1890. Owned by the Montreal Transportation Company, the Minnedosa was the largest of its kind ever built on the Great Lakes, measuring 250 feet in length with a 36-foot beam. Its elegant design attracted attention from seafarers.
Unfortunately, this crucial assignment turned out to be the Munson’s final one. After completing its dredging work in Kingston harbor on April 23, 1890, the Munson, along with two scows, was being towed by the tug Emma Munson to undertake construction work on the Bay of Quinte bridge in Rossmore. While in tow, near Lemoine’s Point, the Munson began to list to one side. It had already been leaking prior to departing Kingston. Suddenly, and unexpectedly, the dredge started sinking in 110 feet of water, prompting the quick decision to cut the towlines. The Munson sank beam-ends first, with the cook onboard hastily scrambling to safety after being alerted. Exhausted and cold, the cook had to wait until the suction subsided on the sinking dredge before he could surface.
Tragically, the crew lost everything, and the Munson, valued at approximately $15,000, met its demise due to a sprung plank on its bottom. It reportedly sank within four minutes of the first signs of listing. In 1981, diver Rick Neilson rediscovered the wreck of the Munson, which now rests upright in about 110 feet of water. Many artifacts from the dredge have been donated to the Hastings County Museum in Belleville, Ontario, forming the foundation of their Marine heritage section.
Today, divers have the opportunity to explore the well-preserved Munson wreck, which showcases its steam shovel and two levels. The arm that once supported the shovel is partially articulated and rests on the lakebed along with the shovel itself. Various plates, bottles, cups, and bowls from the era are on display for visiting divers to appreciate. However, the wreck’s depth requires careful monitoring of air consumption and time underwater. A layer of silt covers the wreck, necessitating good buoyancy control. As the Munson greets divers’ eyes during their descent, it remains a favourite destination for those who visit.External Links
