Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: A. Medbury
- Type: Schooner
- Year Built: 1855
- Builder: Burton Parsons
- Dimensions: 100 ft (30.5 m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 9.2 m / 30 ft
- Location: Four Mile Point, Lake Ontario
- Coordinates: 44° 11.083′ N, 76° 31.528′ W
- Number of Masts: Three
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The A. Medbury was a three-masted, wooden-hulled schooner, a common design for mid-19th century Great Lakes vessels. These ships were built for bulk cargo transport and were essential to regional commerce, hauling commodities such as salt, coal, and grain across the interconnected waterways. The schooner’s design allowed for efficient use of wind power, making it well-suited for the frequently windy conditions of the Great Lakes.
Description
The A. Medbury was constructed in 1855 by Burton Parsons in Vermillion, Ohio. For nearly two decades, the vessel served as a workhorse on the Great Lakes, transporting various goods while enduring the challenges and hazards of maritime commerce.
History
Throughout its operational life, the A. Medbury experienced several incidents, including groundings in the St. Mary’s River and minor collisions. Despite these challenges, the vessel remained seaworthy and continued its service until its tragic end in 1872.
On November 6, 1872, while carrying a load of salt destined for Chicago, the A. Medbury collided with the schooner Hercules near Snake Island on Lake Ontario. The Hercules was laden with railroad iron en route from Kingston to Hamilton. The collision was catastrophic, nearly severing the A. Medbury in two. It sank within three minutes, becoming a total loss valued at $9,700. Fortunately, all crew members survived. The Hercules sustained significant damage but managed to limp back to port with assistance.
The A. Medbury was insured for $5,000, with an additional $3,900 covering its cargo, reflecting its economic value to the shipping industry of the time.
Significant Incidents
- Incident Date: November 6, 1872
- Cause: Collision with the schooner Hercules
- Cargo: Salt
- Outcome: Vessel sank within minutes, becoming a total loss.
Final Disposition
The A. Medbury now rests near Four Mile Point in Lake Ontario, 100 yards north of the shore.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the A. Medbury is in shallow water, making it accessible to recreational divers. Due to the severity of the damage from the collision, the wreck is likely fragmented, with portions of the hull scattered on the lakebed. The site offers a glimpse into the maritime history of Lake Ontario and the perils faced by 19th-century sailors. Divers are encouraged to approach the site with respect for its historical significance, adhering to “look but don’t touch” principles to preserve the wreck for future generations.
Environmental Considerations:
- Preservation Awareness: Avoid disturbing the wreck’s fragile remains or removing artifacts. The site is a historical resource that provides insight into 19th-century Great Lakes commerce.
- Marine Ecosystem: The wreck may serve as an artificial habitat for local aquatic life. Divers should minimize disturbance to ensure the site remains a haven for biodiversity.
Resources & Links
The A. Medbury represents an era when schooners were vital to the economic lifeblood of the Great Lakes region. Its loss in 1872 underscores the dangers of navigating these waters during the height of maritime trade. Today, the wreck serves as a historical time capsule, offering divers and historians a unique opportunity to explore the legacy of Great Lakes shipping. Respecting and preserving this site ensures its story continues to be told for generations to come.