Hamilton (steambarge – Lake Ontario Barge Shipwreck (2022)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Hamilton
• Type: Steambarge
• Year Built: 1891
• Builder:
• Dimensions:
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: West Lake, Prince Edward County, Ontario
• Coordinates: Exact coordinates undisclosed

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Names: Maggie R (Tugboat) and Hamilton (Steambarge)

Description

Maggie R (Tugboat):

• Year Built: 1907
• Primary Use: Towing barges, ice clearing, and assisting with dredging operations on the Great Lakes.
• Design: A robust and versatile tugboat capable of enduring challenging conditions and supporting various maritime operations.

Hamilton (Steambarge):

Year Built: 1891

• Primary Use: Transportation of bulk goods such as grain, coal, and other commodities.
• Design: A steam-powered barge, durable and reliable, vital to the economic activities of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

History

Maggie R:

• Built in 1907, the Maggie R served as a reliable tug on the Great Lakes.
• Involved in various roles over decades, reflecting the adaptability required in the evolving maritime industry.
• Its design and durability made it a key player in towing and dredging operations.

Hamilton:

• Constructed in 1891, the Hamilton played a significant role in the Great Lakes trade networks.
• Transported critical goods for the industrial and agricultural sectors of the region.
• Known for its sturdy construction, it was a dependable steambarge for years.

Significant Incidents

• Both vessels, alongside an unidentified barge, were abandoned in West Lake after their operational usefulness ended.
• In September 2022, the Canadian government removed them as part of an initiative to clear derelict ships.
• The effort aimed to improve safety and address environmental concerns in inland waters.

Final Disposition

Both vessels were removed from West Lake in September 2022, reflecting a balance between environmental conservation and the preservation of historical records.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The Maggie R and Hamilton are no longer accessible for exploration or diving as they have been completely removed from West Lake. The dredging operation was a complex task, highlighting the challenges of handling historical wrecks in inland environments.

Resources & Links

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The removal of the Maggie R and Hamilton from West Lake marks the end of their physical legacy but ensures their stories remain preserved as part of Canadian maritime history. These vessels played crucial roles in the economic and industrial development of the Great Lakes region, and their absence from the lake is a reminder of the evolving priorities in balancing heritage preservation and environmental stewardship.