Maggie R

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Maggie R
• Type: Tugboat
• Year Built: 1907
• Builder:
• Dimensions:
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: West Lake, Prince Edward County, Ontario

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Names: Maggie R (Tugboat) and Hamilton (Steambarge)

Description

Maggie R (Tugboat): The Maggie R, built in 1907, was a classic tugboat designed for towing, dredging, and ice-clearing operations. Tugboats like the Maggie R were instrumental in supporting the bustling maritime activities of the Great Lakes, characterized by their compact, robust design capable of enduring challenging conditions.

Hamilton (Steambarge): Constructed in 1891, the Hamilton was a steam-powered barge used to transport bulk goods such as grain and coal across the Great Lakes. Its sturdy design and reliable steam propulsion made it a vital asset in the late 19th and early 20th-century trade networks, aiding the economic expansion of the region.

History

Maggie R: The Maggie R had a long operational history on the Great Lakes, serving various roles from towing to dredging. Its longevity underscores its utility and the adaptability of tugboats to the evolving maritime industry of the 20th century.

Hamilton: The Hamilton was part of the industrial boom of the Great Lakes, moving essential commodities across waterways. Like many steam barges of its era, the vessel was a backbone of commerce, facilitating the transport of goods vital to regional development.

Significant Incidents

• By the mid-20th century, both vessels were abandoned and left to deteriorate in West Lake.
• In September 2022, the Canadian government dredged the Maggie R, the Hamilton, and an unidentified barge as part of efforts to clear derelict vessels.

Final Disposition

Both vessels were removed from West Lake in 2022 as part of a cleanup operation aimed at addressing environmental concerns and improving safety for lake users.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Both vessels were removed from West Lake in 2022 and are no longer available for diving or exploration. The dredging process was documented, emphasizing the technical and logistical challenges of handling historical wrecks in small inland water bodies.

Resources & Links

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The Maggie R and Hamilton epitomize the working vessels of the Great Lakes during their operational lifetimes. While their removal marks the loss of physical artifacts, the stories and historical significance of these vessels endure, offering valuable insights into the industrial history of the region.