Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: George King
- Type: Wooden propeller-driven bulk freight steamer
- Year Built: 1874
- Builder: G. Koenig (King), Marine City, Michigan
- Dimensions: 176 ft (53.6 m) length × 31 ft beam × 13 ft depth; 533 GRT, 381 NRT
- Registered Tonnage: 533 GRT, 381 NRT
- Location: Harbor at Buffalo, Lake Erie
- Official Number: 85313
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The George King was a wooden propeller-driven bulk freight steamer, commonly referred to as a “lumber hooker.”
Description
Built in 1874 by G. Koenig in Marine City, Michigan, the George King measured 176 feet in length, 31 feet in beam, and had a depth of 13 feet. It had a registered tonnage of 533 gross registered tons (GRT) and 381 net registered tons (NRT).
History
The George King served primarily in the transportation of bulk freight, particularly lumber, during its operational years. Its construction reflects the maritime engineering practices of the late 19th century.
Significant Incidents
- Date of loss: September 20, 1926
- Location: Harbor at Buffalo, Lake Erie
- Cause: A catastrophic fire destroyed the vessel, resulting in a total loss.
- Casualties: None reported.
Final Disposition
After the fire, the hull of the George King was salvaged and repurposed as a dock in Buffalo, indicating that some structural components were recovered and reused.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the wreck is unknown, as the original vessel burned at dock. However, remnants of the hull may still exist underwater, warranting further investigation.
Resources & Links
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The story of the George King exemplifies the lifecycle of a late-19th-century wooden bulk steamer and its transformation into infrastructure. Investigating her remains and dock legacy could enhance understanding of maritime engineering and harbor adaptation in the early 20th century.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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