Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: John Rolph (formerly Resolute)
- Type: Wooden freight steamer
- Year Built: 1883
- Builder: Rathbun Bros.
- Dimensions: Length: 136.6 ft (41.6 m); Beam: 27.8 ft; Depth of hold: 10.3 ft
- Registered Tonnage: 372 tons
- Location: Lake Ontario, near Toronto
- Official Number: C.88241
- Original Owners: Deseronto Navigation Company Ltd., Haney & Miller, Point Anne Quarries Ltd.
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Type
Wooden freight steamer.
Description
Description
The John Rolph began life as the Resolute, a wooden freight steamer built in 1883 by the Rathbun Brothers at Deseronto, Ontario. Initially employed in lumber transport, it underwent a significant rebuild in 1887, extending its length and increasing its gross tonnage.
History
History
In the early 1900s, the vessel transitioned to transporting coal and construction materials under Haney & Miller. On November 21, 1906, the Resolute foundered in a storm near Toronto, resulting in the loss of seven crew members. The hull was salvaged in 1907, rebuilt in 1908, and renamed John Rolph, serving in the quarrying industry until its scuttling in 1926.
Significant Incidents
Significant Incidents
- November 21, 1906: Foundered in a storm off Toronto, resulting in the loss of seven crew members.
Final Disposition
Final Disposition
After being laid up in Toronto in 1923, the John Rolph was moved to Hanlan’s Point in 1926 and eventually scuttled in deep water in Lake Ontario.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the John Rolph lies submerged in Lake Ontario, with no current accessibility for divers due to its depth and location.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”john-rolph-resolute-c-88241″ title=”References & Links”]
Summary
The John Rolph (formerly Resolute) is a significant vessel in the maritime history of Lake Ontario, showcasing the adaptability of ships during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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