Curlew – St. Lawrence River Tug Shipwreck (1933)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Curlew
• Type: Wooden River Tug
• Year Built: 1867
• Builder: C.J. Rose, Ogdensburg, New York
• Dimensions: Length: 77.0 ft (23.5 m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage: Gross Tonnage (Original): 63.06 tons; Net Tonnage (Original): 31.53 tons; Gross Tonnage (Post-1901 Rebuild): 84.6 tons; Net Tonnage (Post-1901 Rebuild): 57.53 tons
• Location:
• Official Number: C 122178 (formerly U 5965)
• Original Owners: Great Lakes Dredging and Contracting Co. (1924–1933)

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type Description

The Curlew was a wooden-hulled river tug, built for towing and navigation tasks on the St. Lawrence River and Great Lakes. Its round stern design and robust single-cylinder engine made it well-suited for the dynamic and demanding conditions of these waterways. Over its service life, the Curlew underwent significant rebuilds, reflecting its adaptability and utility in various maritime roles.

Description

Identification & Site Information

• Name: Curlew (formerly U 5965)
• Type: Wooden River Tug
• Official Number: C 122178 (formerly U 5965)
• Year Built: 1867
• Builder: C.J. Rose, Ogdensburg, New York
• Construction: Wooden hull, round stern design
• Dimensions: Length: 77.0 ft (23.5 m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Gross Tonnage (Original): 63.06 tons
• Net Tonnage (Original): 31.53 tons
• Gross Tonnage (Post-1901 Rebuild): 84.6 tons
• Net Tonnage (Post-1901 Rebuild): 57.53 tons
• Engine: High-pressure single-cylinder engine (80 indicated horsepower, 10.6 rated horsepower)
• Final Ownership: Great Lakes Dredging and Contracting Co. (1924–1933)
• Final Disposition: Scuttled in 1933
• Registry Closed: November 28, 1936

History

History

• Built in 1867 by C.J. Rose in Ogdensburg, New York, the Curlew started its career as a versatile workhorse for riverine and lake transportation.
• Initially owned by its builder, the tug facilitated commerce in the bustling shipping lanes of the St. Lawrence River.

Ownership Changes & Rebuilds

• 1875: Sold to Hall and Gardiner, and subsequently in 1880 to George Hall.
• 1901: Underwent its first major rebuild at the St. Lawrence Marine Railway in Ogdensburg. This rebuild significantly increased its gross and net tonnage, enhancing its cargo and towing capabilities.
  • After the rebuild, ownership passed to the Montreal Transportation Co. The tug continued operations on the Great Lakes.
• 1907: Suffered a sinking incident but was successfully salvaged. Later sold to J.D. Morrison of Port Arthur, Ontario, where it underwent another rebuild.
• 1908: Sold to the Great Lakes Dredge Co, taking on a vital role in dredging and waterway maintenance across the Great Lakes.
  • Through the 1920s, the Curlew experienced multiple ownership transitions, including possible ownership by J. O’Brien of Ottawa in 1920.
• By 1924, ownership returned to the Great Lakes Dredging and Contracting Co. which utilized the tug for industrial maritime operations.

Significant Incidents

Significant Incidents

• 1907: Sinking incident, successfully salvaged.

Final Disposition

Final Disposition

• After decades of service and multiple rebuilds, the Curlew was scuttled in 1933, marking the end of its operational life.
• The tug’s registry was officially closed on November 28, 1936, confirming its retirement from maritime service.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Current Condition & Accessibility

The Curlew remains submerged, and divers are encouraged to practice responsible diving ethics. Remember to leave only bubbles and take only memories, ensuring the site is left better than found.

Resources & Links

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Conclusion

The Curlew stands as a storied example of the hardworking tugboats that were the backbone of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River commerce. Despite its scuttling in 1933, its rich history of adaptability, endurance, and service lives on as a tribute to the maritime heritage of North America.