Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Canisteo
- Type: Wooden Propeller Steambarge
- Year Built: 1886
- Builder: William Dulac, Mount Clemens, Michigan
- Dimensions: Length: 182 ft (55.5 m); Beam: 34 ft (10.4 m); Depth of hold: 12 ft (3.7 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 595 tons
- Location: Scuttled near Lexington, Lake Huron
- Official Number: US 126360
- Original Owners: Tonawanda Barge Line, L.R. McLaren, Eli Jacques & Sons
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Canisteo was a wooden propeller-driven steambarge, a versatile vessel type used extensively for transporting bulk materials such as coal, ore, and lumber across the Great Lakes. The steambarge’s single-propeller configuration and robust construction made it suitable for enduring the harsh conditions of Great Lakes navigation. The addition of a clamshell rig and A-frame later in its service life allowed it to participate in the sand trade, further showcasing its adaptability.
Description
The Canisteo was launched in 1886 at Mount Clemens, Michigan, and began its life as a reliable freighter for the Tonawanda Barge Line. Over its 34-year career, the vessel served various owners, reflecting the changing dynamics of the Great Lakes shipping industry.
History
Ownership Timeline:
- 1886-1903: Tonawanda Barge Line, Tonawanda, New York
- 1903-1908: L.R. McLaren, Toledo, Ohio
- 1908-1920: Eli Jacques & Sons, Duluth, Minnesota
During its operational years, the Canisteo underwent modifications to expand its capabilities. This included the addition of an A-frame and clamshell rig to enable it to handle bulk materials like sand.
Significant Incidents
Final Incident:
On a routine voyage in 1920 near Port Huron, Michigan, the Canisteo caught fire under unknown circumstances. Despite firefighting efforts, the blaze rapidly consumed the wooden vessel. Declared a constructive total loss, the ship was scrapped and its remains scuttled in 1921 near Lexington, Lake Huron. The precise cargo on board during the fire is undocumented, and no casualties were reported.
Final Disposition
The Canisteo was destroyed by fire in 1920 and subsequently scuttled in 1921 near Lexington in Lake Huron. The ship’s final resting place remains undetermined, although it is presumed to lie at the lakebed.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Since the Canisteo was scrapped and scuttled, its condition is presumed to be highly deteriorated. The lack of precise location data further complicates any exploration or recovery efforts. The site, if located, would likely be accessible only to experienced divers due to its age and presumed state of disintegration.
Resources & Links
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The story of the Canisteo illustrates the challenges and dangers faced by Great Lakes vessels during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Designed for bulk freight trade, the Canisteo faithfully served the shipping industry for over three decades before succumbing to fire. The decision to scuttle the vessel reflects a pragmatic approach to handling wrecks that could no longer be salvaged. Today, the Canisteo rests in Lake Huron, an enduring reminder of the region’s rich maritime history.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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