Hiram R. Dixon – Lake Superior Steamer Shipwreck (1903)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Hiram R. Dixon
• Type: Wooden propeller-driven passenger & package freight coaster
• Year Built: 1883
• Builder: Mystic Marine Railway & Machine Co.
• Dimensions: 147 × 21 × 9 ft; Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage: 483 GRT
• Location: Quebec Harbour, Michipicoten Island
• Official Number: 107600
• Original Owners: Booth & Co., Soo (Canada)

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Wooden Propeller Coaster

Description

The Hiram R. Dixon was a wooden propeller-driven passenger and package freight coaster built in 1883. It served as a coastal package-freight steamer, facilitating the movement of goods and passengers along the north shore of Lake Superior.

History

Owned by Booth & Co., the vessel was part of J.R. Booth’s Lake Superior fleet, which connected Duluth–Soo with northern Ontario ports. Notably, the vessel was lengthened by 30 feet in Chicago in 1892 and sold to the Canadian registry in 1901.

Significant Incidents

• The Hiram R. Dixon caught fire—likely originating from an overheated boiler on deck—and quickly burned down to the waterline. The vessel was a total loss. Her documents were surrendered shortly afterward in December 1903.

Final Disposition

The vessel was completely destroyed by fire on August 18, 1903, in Quebec Harbour, Michipicoten Island, Lake Superior. There were no reported casualties.

Current Condition & Accessibility

As a confirmed wreck, the Hiram R. Dixon remains submerged in Lake Superior, with no current accessibility details available.

Resources & Links

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The Hiram R. Dixon served as a vital link between shoreside industries and hinterland camps across Lake Superior. After two decades of service, she met her fiery end in August 1903 at Quebec Harbour. Her complete loss, with no casualties, reflects the risks of steam-era vessels serving remote harbours under rugged conditions.