Legacy Notes & Full Historical Record

This section preserves the original unedited Shotline content for this wreck so that no historical detail is lost as we transition to the new logbook format.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

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.

Final Dispositions

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.

Located By & Date Found

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.

Notmars & Advisories

None noted. Wreckage likely reduced to charred wood debris in shallow water.

Dive Information

Access: Boat (Lake Joseph)
Entry Point: Camp Ekon / Stanley House Bay area
Conditions: Typical Muskoka lake visibility (low to moderate); shallow water; possible submerged debris
Depth Range: 10–30 ft (3–9 m)
Emergency Contacts: Canadian Coast Guard, local OPP Marine Unit (Muskoka Lakes)
Permits: None required, but site is undocumented and should be treated with caution
Dive Support: Muskoka area dive shops (Bracebridge, Gravenhurst)

Crew & Casualty Memorials

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.

Documented Statements & Extracts

“She was also said to be the Company’s most efficient and economical vessel, able to sail 100 miles and carry 250 passengers on just 2 cord of wood.” — Realmuskoka.com

Registry, Enrollment & Insurance Trails

The Kenozha operated under Canadian registry as part of the Muskoka Navigation Company fleet. No official number or enrollment papers have been located in online archives. Insurance claims following the 1918 fire are not publicly recorded.

Site Documentation & Imaging

No underwater documentation or photogrammetry of the wreck site is available. The Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre maintains historical photographs and interpretive exhibits of Kenozha in service.

Image Gallery

Resources & Links

• Realmuskoka – Kenozha profile
• Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre archives
• Great Lakes Vessels Database (BGSU/HCGL)
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Chronicling America (Library of Congress)
• Newspapers.com

References

1. Realmuskoka.com – “Steamer Kenozha (1883–1918)”
2. Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre Archives (photographic collection)
3. “Camp Ekon (formerly Stanley House)” – Wikipedia

NOAA Shipwreck Record Card