Chicago – Lake Ontario Barge Shipwreck (1908)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: CHICAGO
• Type: River Barge
• Year Built: 1872
• Builder: J.B. Auger
• Dimensions: 146.6 ft (44.7 m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage: 350.84 tons
• Location: Cataraqui River, near Kingston, Ontario
• Official Number: Not documented
• Original Owners: Montreal Transportation Company
• Number of Masts: Single Mast

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The CHICAGO was a river barge designed for the grain transport industry, showcasing the robust design typical of its era.

Description

The CHICAGO was constructed in 1872 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. With a capacity of 22,000 bushels, it was integral to the grain transport industry along Canadian waterways.

History

The lifecycle of the CHICAGO included several modifications and ratings over the years, reflecting its operational status and economic value. It was rated 1 out of 3 in 1874 with a value of $10,500, but this value decreased over time, culminating in a rating of B1 by 1897.

Significant Incidents

• 1908: The CHICAGO was abandoned in the Cataraqui River, near Kingston, Ontario.
• 1912: Classified as ‘on hand but of no value’ by the Montreal Transportation Co..
• 1915: Officially removed from the Canadian shipping register.

Final Disposition

The abandonment of the CHICAGO in 1908 marked the end of its operational life, and its removal from the shipping register in 1915 signified its obsolescence.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the CHICAGO is located in the Cataraqui River, contributing to the historical narrative of Kingston’s maritime past.

Resources & Links

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The story of the CHICAGO reflects the evolution of maritime trade and the transition from older vessels to modern shipping solutions, serving as a reminder of the challenges faced in the grain transport industry.