Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Light Beacon
- Type: Navigational Aid
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions: 20 ft (6.1 m);
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Lake Ontario, near Oswego, New York
- Coordinates: Not publicly disclosed
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Type: Navigational Aid
Description
The beacon is a 20-foot tall navigational aid, originally used to guide vessels safely through Lake Ontario’s waters near Oswego. Light beacons like this were common on the Great Lakes, serving as critical markers to warn mariners of shallow waters, rocky outcroppings, and other hazards. Constructed of steel or iron for durability, these beacons often stood atop submerged foundations or pilings, with lighting systems powered by gas or electricity.
History
The light beacon was discovered in 2016 during a sonar survey conducted by SonarGuy.com, an organization known for its expertise in underwater imaging and shipwreck discovery. Its location near Oswego suggests it may have been part of the region’s historical navigational network.
The beacon’s exact purpose and history remain unclear, but it likely dates back to the late 19th or early 20th century, when numerous navigational aids were installed across the Great Lakes. These structures were vital for ensuring the safety of ships navigating Lake Ontario, particularly in poor visibility or during stormy weather.
Significant Incidents
- No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with the beacon, but divers and boaters in the area should exercise caution to avoid accidental contact with submerged structures.
Final Disposition
The beacon remains submerged at a shallow depth of ? feet, making it accessible to recreational divers. It is reported to be largely intact, although years underwater may have caused corrosion and other forms of deterioration. The site offers a unique opportunity for exploration, combining historical significance with recreational diving appeal.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The discovery of the 20-foot light beacon highlights the rich maritime history of Lake Ontario and the vital role navigational aids played in ensuring the safe passage of vessels. As a testament to the engineering efforts of the time, the beacon represents the evolution of maritime safety measures in the Great Lakes region. Its shallow location and accessibility make it a point of interest for divers and maritime enthusiasts seeking to explore historical structures submerged in the lake.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”light-beacon” title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
As you explore this site, remember to leave only bubbles and take only memories. Be the diver that makes a difference by respecting the historical significance of the Light Beacon and ensuring its preservation for future generations.
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.
IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
- Structure Name: Light Beacon
- Type: Navigational Aid
- Location: Lake Ontario, near Oswego, New York
- Coordinates: Not publicly disclosed
- Depth: Unknown
- Year Located: 2016
- Discovered By: SonarGuy.com
DESCRIPTION
The beacon is a 20-foot tall navigational aid, originally used to guide vessels safely through Lake Ontario’s waters near Oswego. Light beacons like this were common on the Great Lakes, serving as critical markers to warn mariners of shallow waters, rocky outcroppings, and other hazards. Constructed of steel or iron for durability, these beacons often stood atop submerged foundations or pilings, with lighting systems powered by gas or electricity.
DISCOVERY
The light beacon was discovered in 2016 during a sonar survey conducted by SonarGuy.com, an organization known for its expertise in underwater imaging and shipwreck discovery. Its location near Oswego suggests it may have been part of the region’s historical navigational network.
The beacon’s exact purpose and history remain unclear, but it likely dates back to the late 19th or early 20th century, when numerous navigational aids were installed across the Great Lakes. These structures were vital for ensuring the safety of ships navigating Lake Ontario, particularly in poor visibility or during stormy weather.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY
The beacon remains submerged at a shallow depth of ? feet, making it accessible to recreational divers. It is reported to be largely intact, although years underwater may have caused corrosion and other forms of deterioration. The site offers a unique opportunity for exploration, combining historical significance with recreational diving appeal.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES
No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with the beacon, but divers and boaters in the area should exercise caution to avoid accidental contact with submerged structures.
RESOURCES & LINKS
- SonarGuy.com: Site documentation and sonar imagery of the beacon.
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: General information about navigational aids in the region.
- Oswego Historical Society: Potential resource for researching the history of navigation infrastructure in the Oswego area.
KEYWORDS #Light Beacon #Lake Ontario #Oswego Navigation #Sonar Discovery #Maritime History #Navigational Aid
ANALYSIS
The discovery of the 20-foot light beacon highlights the rich maritime history of Lake Ontario and the vital role navigational aids played in ensuring the safe passage of vessels. As a testament to the engineering efforts of the time, the beacon represents the evolution of maritime safety measures in the Great Lakes region. Its shallow location and accessibility make it a point of interest for divers and maritime enthusiasts seeking to explore historical structures submerged in the lake.
3D Model by www.sonarguy.com