Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

Kinghorn (1871)

Explore the wreck of the Kinghorn, an iron-hulled barge resting in the St. Lawrence River, known for its historical significance and diverse marine life.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: Kinghorn
  • Type: Iron-hulled Barge
  • Year Built: 1871
  • Builder:
  • Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
  • Registered Tonnage:
  • Depth at Wreck Site: 30 m / 100 ft
  • Location: St. Lawrence River, near Rockport, Ontario
  • Coordinates: Approximately 44°21'38"N 75°56'19"W

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type

Iron-hulled barge.

Description

Description

The Kinghorn sits upright on an even keel on the riverbed, oriented roughly parallel to the shoreline. Her iron framing remains largely intact, giving the wreck a clear outline on the bottom. Wooden planking and deck structures have deteriorated but are still present in many areas, now heavily colonized by zebra and quagga mussels. The partially collapsed deck has created large openings into the holds, allowing ambient light to reach the interior and making it easier for divers to observe the layout without deep penetration.

History

History

The Kinghorn sank in 1897, and her official status remained unresolved for many years. Her Canadian registry was not formally closed until February 9, 1915. The wreck was rediscovered in 1995 by diver Ron MacDonald, and by 1996, it was identified as the Kinghorn based on historical accounts and artifacts found at the site.

Significant Incidents

Significant Incidents

  • On February 4, 2006, an experienced diver died during a winter shore dive attempt to the wreck, highlighting the risks associated with diving in cold water and strong currents.

Final Disposition

Final Disposition

The Kinghorn remains a significant part of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence maritime history, both for its historical importance and as an accessible, well-preserved dive site.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck is in good condition and is a popular dive site, accessible primarily by boat. Local charters regularly include the wreck in their schedules, and a seasonal mooring buoy is typically installed to protect the site.

Resources & Links

Closing Summary

Divers are encouraged to respect the wreck and its surroundings, avoiding any disturbance to the site for both safety and preservation purposes.