Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Kenozha
- Type: Sidewheel passenger steamer
- Year Built: 1883
- Builder: Likely Muskoka Navigation Company yards
- Dimensions: Length ~120 ft (36.6 m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: Unknown
- Depth at Wreck Site: 3 m / 10 ft
- Location: Stanley Bay, Lake Joseph, Ontario
- Coordinates: ~45.2144° N, 79.7295° W (approx.)
- Official Number: Unknown
- Original Owners: Muskoka Navigation Company
- Number of Masts: None
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Kenozha was a sidewheel passenger steamer built in 1883 for the Muskoka Navigation Company to replace the burned Wenonah. She was celebrated as the fleet’s fastest and most fuel-efficient vessel, reputedly able to steam 100 miles (160 km) and carry 250 passengers on just two cords of wood. She was known for her smooth handling and handsome appearance. In 1898, growing demand led to a dramatic hull lengthening of nearly 20 feet, making her the largest ship in the fleet until the Medora entered service in 1903.
Description
The Kenozha was a sidewheel passenger steamer built in 1883 for the Muskoka Navigation Company to replace the burned Wenonah. She was celebrated as the fleet’s fastest and most fuel-efficient vessel, reputedly able to steam 100 miles (160 km) and carry 250 passengers on just two cords of wood. She was known for her smooth handling and handsome appearance. In 1898, growing demand led to a dramatic hull lengthening of nearly 20 feet, making her the largest ship in the fleet until the Medora entered service in 1903.
History
In 1884, the Kenozha was selected to carry the Governor General, the Marquis of Lansdowne, and A.P. Cockburn on a ceremonial tour of the Muskoka Lakes, underscoring her prominence within the fleet. She remained a mainstay of Muskoka passenger service, operating from Port Carling and calling at resorts, hotels, and private docks across Lakes Rosseau and Joseph.
On 11 August 1908, Kenozha collided with the steamer Sagamo at Beaumaris, severely crushing her forepeak. The accident was considered a serious embarrassment, and both her skipper and mate were dismissed by the Company.
Significant Incidents
- 11 August 1908: Collided with the steamer Sagamo at Beaumaris, resulting in severe damage to her forepeak.
Final Disposition
On 15 August 1918, while docked at Stanley House (now Camp Ekon) on northern Lake Joseph, Kenozha caught fire during the night. The crew of 14 barely escaped, with the captain forced to dive overboard in his nightclothes as flames overtook the vessel. To prevent destruction of the hotel, the burning steamer was cut loose and allowed to drift before being grounded on the north side of Stanley Bay. She burned to the waterline and sank. The wreck was declared a total loss.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck site has never been formally surveyed or documented. Local accounts identify her final resting place as the north side of Stanley Bay, Lake Joseph. The precise remains are unconfirmed. Wreckage is likely reduced to charred wood debris in shallow water.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”kenozha-1883″ title=”References & Links”]
All 14 crew survived the 1918 fire. No fatalities reported. No formal crew memorials located. Further research into Muskoka Navigation Company personnel records may identify crew lists.
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