Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: COLONIAL
- Type: Propeller, wood, bulk freighter
- Year Built: 1882
- Builder: G. Presley, Cleveland, Ohio
- Dimensions: 244 ft (74.4 m); Beam 36 ft (11 m); Depth 19 ft (5.8 m)
- Registered Tonnage: Gross: 1,502 tons; Net: 1,189 tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 4 m / 22 ft
- Location: Near Erieau, Lake Erie
- Coordinates: N 42° 15′ 3.8988″, W 82° 4′ 17.5188″
- Official Number: 126012
- Original Owners: Multiple ownership changes throughout service life
- Number of Masts: Wooden-hulled
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The COLONIAL was originally built as a package freighter, designed to transport goods efficiently on the Great Lakes. Over time, it was converted into a bulk freighter, specializing in carrying cargo such as coal and iron ore. Wooden-hulled propeller-driven freighters like the COLONIAL were the backbone of the Great Lakes shipping industry in the late 19th century, providing vital links between industrial centers.
Description
The COLONIAL was built in 1882 by G. Presley in Cleveland, Ohio, and initially served as a package freighter for the Republic Iron Company of Marquette, Michigan. It was converted to a bulk freighter before 1893 to meet the growing demand for transporting large quantities of raw materials. After a significant stranding incident on Lake Ontario in 1893, the COLONIAL underwent extensive repairs and was rebuilt in 1896, receiving a new engine and boiler, enhancing its capabilities and extending its operational life.
History
The COLONIAL frequently participated in towing operations, assisting other vessels on the Great Lakes. Its ownership changed multiple times over its service life, reflecting the vessel’s adaptability and utility in a variety of roles.
Significant Incidents
- Date: November 13, 1914
- Route: Oswego, New York, to Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Cargo: Coal
- The COLONIAL encountered a severe gale while crossing Lake Erie. The vessel began to leak, endangering the crew and the ship.
In an effort to save lives, the crew made the decision to beach the vessel near Rondeau Point, close to Pardoville, Ontario. Despite the successful beaching, another storm struck the area on November 18, 1914, tearing the ship apart. The wreckage was scattered by the waves, resulting in the total loss of the vessel. The crew survived the initial storm and grounding, avoiding loss of life.
Final Disposition
The COLONIAL was reduced to wreckage and declared a total loss following the second storm. The wreck was discovered in 1991 near Erieau, Ontario. Portions of the ship are partially buried and scattered across the lakebed.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck remains scattered and partially buried near the wreck site. Divers are encouraged to document the site using no-touch methods, respecting the historical significance of the wreck.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”colonial-us-126012″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The story of the steamer COLONIAL exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of Great Lakes vessels and crews. Despite extensive repairs and decades of service, the COLONIAL ultimately succumbed to the forces of nature, underscoring the challenges of navigating the Great Lakes. The ship’s discovery in 1991 serves as a testament to its historical significance and a reminder of the enduring legacy of maritime commerce on the Great Lakes.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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