Collina (1883)

Explore the history of the COLLINA, a wooden barge that played a vital role in the Great Lakes timber trade before its sinking and eventual destruction.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: COLLINA
  • Type: Barge
  • Year Built: 1883
  • Builder: F. Harris, Wallaceburg, Ontario
  • Dimensions: Length: 91 ft (27.7 m); Beam: 24 ft (7.3 m); Depth: 5 ft (1.5 m)
  • Registered Tonnage: Gross Tonnage: 62 tons; Net Tonnage: 62 tons
  • Location: Molly Creek near Dresden, Ontario
  • Original Owners: William Adolphus Fraser, A. Trerice

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type

Wooden barge designed for carrying heavy cargo, specifically wooden bolts and timber products.

Description

Description

The COLLINA was a wooden barge built in 1883, measuring 91 feet in length, 24 feet in beam, and 5 feet in depth. It was primarily used for transporting timber products across the Great Lakes and regional rivers.

History

History

Initially owned by William Adolphus Fraser of Wallaceburg, Ontario, the COLLINA was later acquired by A. Trerice in Dresden, Ontario. The barge played a crucial role in the timber trade, navigating between Lake Erie, Lake St. Clair, and surrounding waterways.

Significant Incidents

Significant Incidents

  • Collision and Sinking Incident
    Date: May 28, 1888
    Location: Molly Creek near Dresden, Ontario, Lake Erie
    Event: The COLLINA collided with a sawlog while outbound for Detroit, Michigan, causing it to sink. No loss of life occurred.
  • Final Incident
    Date: 1891
    Location: Lake St. Clair
    Event: The COLLINA caught fire and was destroyed, marking the end of its service.

Final Disposition

Final Disposition

After sinking in 1888, the COLLINA was raised and continued operations until it caught fire in 1891, resulting in a total loss.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Current Condition & Accessibility

The COLLINA is no longer accessible as it was destroyed by fire in 1891. The wreck site is not known to be preserved.

Resources & Links

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Conclusion

The COLLINA’s history reflects the operational risks faced by wooden vessels in the 19th century, highlighting the importance of timber trade in the Great Lakes region and the challenges of navigation during that era.

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