Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Tug Northern
- Type: Tugboat
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 143 m / 468 ft
- Location: 2 miles off Dyer’s Bay, Georgian Bay
- Original Owners: John Harrison & Sons Company Limited
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Type: Tugboat
Description
Description: The tug Northern was utilized for transporting and dumping surplus ammunition into Georgian Bay, specifically near Dyer’s Bay, as part of a post-WWII disposal operation.
History
History: In November 1945, the Canadian government authorized the disposal of obsolete ammunition into Georgian Bay. The tug Northern, operated by John Harrison & Sons Company Limited, played a crucial role in this operation, transporting approximately 1,000 tons of ammunition to a designated dumping site.
Significant Incidents
Significant Incidents:
- November 1945: The tug Northern conducted ammunition dumping operations, involving 39 soldiers under Captain J.H. Seldon.
- Captain Roderick Graham commanded the tug during the operation.
Final Disposition
Final Disposition: The ammunition was dumped in deep waters approximately 2 miles off Dyer’s Bay, with concerns about the long-term environmental impact and potential risks from unexploded ordnance.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Current Condition & Accessibility: The site remains largely unexplored, with reports suggesting that the dumped ammunition is scattered across a vast area of Georgian Bay. Divers and fishermen are advised to exercise caution due to the potential presence of unexploded shells.
Resources & Links
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Closing Summary: The operation involving the tug Northern highlights a significant yet often overlooked chapter in Canadian maritime history. It serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible disposal practices and the ongoing need for awareness regarding underwater hazards.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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