Centennial

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Centennial
• Type: Wooden-hulled steam-powered vessel
• Year Built: Not specified (likely prior to 1880)
• Builder: Not specified
• Dimensions: Not specified
• Registered Tonnage: Not located in available records
• Location: Parry Sound, Ontario
• Official Number: Not located in available records
• Original Owners: Not specified
• Number of Masts: Not specified

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Centennial was a wooden-hulled steam-powered vessel, likely a small passenger or freight steamer operating in Georgian Bay during the late 19th century.

Description

While specific construction records are unavailable, the Centennial was a typical wooden steamer of the era, likely used for regional transport of passengers and goods between ports along Georgian Bay. These vessels were vital to the economic and social connectivity of remote communities in Ontario before the widespread development of rail and road infrastructure.

History

The Centennial met her end in the early 1880s while docked at Parry Sound, Ontario. She caught fire while at the wharf and was destroyed in the blaze. The incident occurred during a time when waterfront fires were a common hazard due to the prevalence of wooden construction, open flames, and limited firefighting capabilities. No loss of life was reported, and the fire was likely contained to the vessel and immediate dock area.

Significant Incidents

• The Centennial was burned to a total loss at dock in Parry Sound in the early 1880s.
• No loss of life was reported during the incident.

Final Disposition

The Centennial was burned to a total loss at dock in Parry Sound in the early 1880s. There is no record of salvage or reconstruction.

Current Condition & Accessibility

There are no known records or surveys indicating the remains of the Centennial have been located. Given that she burned at dock, any remnants may have been removed or buried during subsequent harbour development.

Resources & Links

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The Centennial is one of many lesser-known steamers that served the communities of Georgian Bay during the 19th century. Her loss by fire at dock in Parry Sound reflects the vulnerability of early wooden vessels and waterfront infrastructure. Though little remains of her today, she forms part of the broader narrative of Ontario’s maritime heritage.