Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Canada
• Type: Wooden Barge
• Year Built: 1907
• Builder: Wallaceburg, Ontario
• Dimensions: Length: 84 ft (25.6 m); Beam: 22 ft (6.7 m); Depth of hold: 5 ft (1.5 m)
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: Mitchell’s Bay
• Official Number: C116485

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Canada was a wooden barge designed for the transport of goods along the inland waterways of the Great Lakes. Barges of this type were often un-powered and relied on towing by tugs. The design prioritized cargo capacity and functionality, making them essential in supporting Great Lakes commerce during the early 20th century.

Description

The Canada was constructed in 1907 in Wallaceburg, Ontario. It served as a workhorse for regional shipping, likely transporting bulk cargoes such as timber, coal, or other commodities. Notably, some sources suggest the barge might have been built or acquired from foreign sources around 1904, though its official construction year is documented as 1907.

History

On November 2, 1916, the Canada was involved in a collision that led to its sinking. Details about the incident are scarce, but reports indicate the barge collided with Zouave, a tugboat. The name of the tug remains uncertain, with conflicting information suggesting it may have been called MITCHELL’S BAY or that the location of the collision itself was near Mitchell’s Bay on Lake St. Clair.

The Canada was reported to have sunk following the collision, though the circumstances of the sinking—such as weather conditions or navigational errors—are not documented. Additionally, no information is available regarding the barge’s cargo or any loss of life during the incident.

Despite the collision and sinking, records suggest that the Canada was likely recovered after the incident, though its condition post-recovery and any further use remain unclear.

The loss and subsequent recovery of the Canada reflect the hazards of towing operations and barge use in the Great Lakes during the early 20th century. Barges like the Canada played a critical role in supporting the industrial and economic activities of the region, and their losses highlight the challenges of operating in often unpredictable and crowded waterways.

Significant Incidents

• Collision with tugboat Zouave on November 2, 1916.
• Conflicting reports on the name of the tug involved, possibly MITCHELL’S BAY.
• Location of the collision may have been near Mitchell’s Bay on Lake St. Clair.

Final Disposition

The Canada sank following the collision but was likely recovered afterward. The details of its condition post-recovery and any subsequent use are not documented.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The current condition of the wreck is not specified, and accessibility details are not available.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”canada-c-116485″ title=”References & Links”]

The wreck of the Canada serves as a reminder of the maritime history and the challenges faced by vessels operating in the Great Lakes. Its story reflects the importance of barges in the region’s economic development during the early 20th century.