Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: I. M. Weston
- Type: Small wooden excursion steamer
- Year Built: circa 1901
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Chicago Drainage Canal
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Type: Small wooden excursion steamer (“steam-launch”), operating in the Chicago River and Drainage Canal system
Description
The I. M. Weston was a modest-sized excursion steamer serving Chicago’s booming river tourism in the early 1900s. She carried passengers on excursions up and down the Chicago River and beyond into the Drainage Canal, typically between city and suburban lock ports.
History
Built circa 1901, the I. M. Weston operated primarily in the Chicago River and Drainage Canal system, providing leisure excursions for passengers. The vessel was noted for its role in the local tourism industry during this period.
Significant Incidents
- On September 4, 1902, while laid up for repairs in the Chicago Drainage Canal, I. M. Weston caught fire and was completely destroyed by flames, sinking to a total loss while tied to a dock.
- No records indicate injuries or fatalities—this incident was mechanical/infrastructure rather than weather-related.
Final Disposition
The I. M. Weston was destroyed by fire while lying in the Chicago Drainage Canal, resulting in a total loss of the vessel.
Current Condition & Accessibility
While the I. M. Weston is believed to have sunk in canal sludge, possible remnants or artifacts might still exist. Survey and dive reports from the Chicago River trench could provide insights into the current condition of the site.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”i-m-weston-1901″ title=”References & Links”]
Despite its obscurity, the I. M. Weston reflects Chicago’s turn-of-century riverboat culture and the inherent fire risk of wooden, steam-powered launches. Further research could uncover more about its operational history and the circumstances surrounding its loss.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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