Argosy – St. Lawrence River Steamer Shipwreck (1912)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Argosy
• Type: Cargo Vessel
• Year Built: 1868
• Builder: G.H. Notter, Buffalo, New York
• Dimensions: 107 ft (32.6 m); 24 ft; Depth of hold unspecified
• Registered Tonnage:
• Depth at Wreck Site: 18 m / 60 ft
• Location: Near Ogdensburg, NY, St. Lawrence River
• Original Owners: Hall & Gardner, Gardner & S., Seymour & Co.

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Argosy, a wooden barge constructed in 1868, was a significant example of 19th-century maritime infrastructure. Measuring 107 feet in length and 24 feet in beam, the barge was designed to transport heavy commodities, such as coal, lumber, and raw materials, essential to the economic expansion along the St. Lawrence River and Great Lakes. The Argosy’s robust construction and adaptability made it a vital vessel for its time, serving industries in both the United States and Canada.

Description

The Argosy was abandoned in the St. Lawrence River near Ogdensburg in 1912. The vessel’s exact condition at the time of abandonment is unclear, but it was likely unfit for further service. The wreck now rests on the riverbed, where it serves as a historical dive site and an artificial reef.

History

Built in Buffalo, NY, by G.H. Notter, the Argosy was initially enrolled in Ogdensburg, NY, a key port city on the St. Lawrence River. The barge operated under various owners, including Hall & Gardner, Gardner & S., and Seymour & Co., highlighting its importance in the region’s busy trade routes.

Key Chronology

• 1868: The Argosy was launched and began service, primarily transporting coal and lumber.
• 1875: Underwent repairs to maintain seaworthiness.
• 1879: Ran aground on Galloo Shoal during towing but sustained minimal damage and resumed service.
• 1912: After over 40 years of operation, the Argosy was abandoned near Ogdensburg, NY, likely due to obsolescence as shipping demands exceeded the capabilities of wooden barges.

Significant Incidents

• The Argosy ran aground on Galloo Shoal in 1879 but sustained minimal damage.

Final Disposition

The wreck retains portions of its wooden hull and decking, offering divers a glimpse into 19th-century shipbuilding. The debris field includes remnants of tools, cargo, and equipment, giving insight into its operational life.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck has become a habitat for local aquatic life, creating a vibrant underwater ecosystem.

Dive Conditions

• Depth: 60 feet (18 meters), accessible to recreational divers.
• Visibility: Generally clear but subject to river currents and seasonal changes.
• Access: Best reached by boat; local dive operators in Ogdensburg offer guided tours.

Resources & Links

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The Argosy is more than just a shipwreck; it is a window into the economic and industrial history of the St. Lawrence River region. For divers, the wreck offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of 19th-century maritime commerce, blending underwater adventure with historical discovery. The Argosy’s legacy continues to enrich our understanding of the waterways that shaped North America’s development.