Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Iona
- Type: Wooden Steambarge (converted from a screw-propelled vessel in 1912)
- Year Built: 1892
- Builder: Trenton, Ontario
- Dimensions: Length: 150 ft (45.7 m); Beam: 25 ft (7.6 m); Depth: 12 ft (3.7 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 500 tons (displacement)
- Location: Approximately 15 miles north of Oswego, New York, Lake Ontario
- Coordinates: 43.683089, -76.529200
- Official Number: 94922
- Original Owners: Initially: J.D. Vanalstyne, Milford, Ontario; Later: E.A. Hall and F.E. Hall, L’Orignal, Ontario
- Number of Masts: Unknown
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Iona was a wooden screw-propelled vessel originally constructed in 1892 for cargo transport on Lake Ontario and connected waterways. Its role evolved when it was converted to a steambarge in 1912, enabling it to carry heavier and bulkier cargoes like coal and lumber. The vessel was well-suited for both lake and canal navigation and became a vital part of the regional shipping trade.
Description
The Iona began its career in Ontario under private ownership, primarily transporting goods like lumber and coal across the Great Lakes. Known for its robust build and adaptability, the vessel frequently docked in Oswego, New York, a hub for maritime trade. By 1912, its conversion to a steambarge marked a shift in its operational focus to heavier freight, reflecting the changing demands of Great Lakes commerce.
History
On its final voyage, the Iona was traveling from Sodus Point, New York, to Montreal with a cargo of coal. A fire broke out approximately 15 miles north of Oswego, forcing the crew to abandon ship. Despite rough weather and freezing conditions, Captain Paul Hammond and his crew of 12 escaped in lifeboats and drifted overnight, eventually landing at Henderson Harbor, New York.
The fire that consumed the Iona was visible from the shores of Lake Ontario, drawing attention from nearby vessels, including the steamer Sowards, captained by Max Shaw. The blaze was witnessed from various points along the lake, leaving a dramatic imprint on local maritime history.
Significant Incidents
- Fire broke out during final voyage, leading to the abandonment of the vessel.
- Visible from shore and nearby vessels, creating a significant maritime event.
Final Disposition
The Iona was destroyed by fire and sank in Lake Ontario during the night of its final voyage. Its burning remains were observed from shore and surrounding vessels. The wreckage was located on July 2, 2024, by Sonar Guy, offering a modern-day opportunity to explore its history through advanced underwater imaging.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreckage of the Iona lies in Lake Ontario, though its exact depth remains undocumented. Given its wooden construction and the intensity of the fire, the wreck is likely in poor condition, with significant degradation over time. However, modern sonar scans and 3D modeling have provided new insights into its final resting place.
There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the Iona wreck, but mariners in the vicinity of Oswego and Henderson Harbor should remain cautious of underwater debris.
Resources & Links
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The story of the Iona is a poignant reminder of the hazards faced by Great Lakes shipping during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A vessel designed for versatility and reliability, the Iona’s conversion to a steambarge reflected the evolving needs of the maritime industry. Its tragic end underscores the ever-present risks of fire and adverse weather on the Great Lakes. The discovery of its wreckage allows for renewed interest and research into its history, offering insights into the lives of its crew and the maritime commerce of the era.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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