Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Alma Munro / Melbourne / John R.
- Type: Propeller-driven cargo steamer
- Year Built: 1873
- Builder: Port Dalhousie, Ontario
- Dimensions: Length 176 ft (53.6 m); Beam 26 ft (7.9 m); Depth of hold 11 ft (3.4 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 890
- Depth at Wreck Site: 3 m / 10 ft
- Location: Hamilton Waterworks, Hamilton, Ontario
- Coordinates: Available upon request
- Official Number: 71239
- Original Owners: Elgin Transportation Co., Port Stanley, ON
- Number of Masts: None
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Propeller-driven cargo steamer
Description
The Alma Munro was constructed with a wooden hull and underwent several modifications throughout its operational life. It was originally built in 1873 and was later lengthened and rebuilt, ultimately being renamed Melbourne and then John R.
History
The vessel’s maiden voyage occurred in June 1873, carrying grain from Chicago. It experienced a collision with the schooner Mary Copely in October 1873, but there were no major casualties. The ship was lengthened in 1884 and underwent a major rebuild in 1893, during which it was renamed Melbourne. In 1905, it suffered significant damage from a fire near Belleville, Ontario. The ship was rebuilt again in 1909 and renamed John R. It was ultimately scrapped in 1914.
Significant Incidents
- June 1873: Maiden voyage carrying grain from Chicago.
- October 1873: Collision with schooner Mary Copely at Port Colborne, Lake Erie — no major casualty.
- 1905: Fire near Belleville, ON (Montreal–Hamilton run) — significant damage.
Final Disposition
Upon scrapping in 1914, the hull was scuttled in shallow water near Hamilton Waterworks. It now rests in approximately 3 m of freshwater, making it accessible for shoreline divers.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck lies in a protected cove, typically experiencing calm water conditions. Visibility ranges from 3 to 6 m (10 to 20 ft), depending on environmental factors. Divers should exercise caution due to potential entanglement hazards.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”john-r-c-126461-alma-munro-c-71239-melbourne” title=”References & Links”]
This wreck site offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of maritime history, showcasing the evolution of a vessel through various rebuilds and modifications. It serves as an accessible dive site for both novice and intermediate divers.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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