Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: R.H. Rae
- Type: Schooner (originally a Barque)
- Year Built: 1857
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length: 136 ft (41.5 m); Beam: 23 ft (7 m); Depth of hold: 11 ft (3.4 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 344 tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 27.43 m / 90 ft
- Location: Main Duck Island, Lake Ontario
- Coordinates: N 43° 53.035′ W 76° 50.515′
- Number of Masts: 3
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The R.H. Rae is classified as a schooner, originally built as a barque, reflecting the design and construction techniques of the 19th century.
Description
The R.H. Rae, a three-masted wooden vessel, was notable for its durability and advanced shipbuilding techniques, including Cunningham’s patented self-reefing topsail and iron reinforcements at each mast.
History
Launched in October 1857, the R.H. Rae quickly achieved an A-1 classification, indicating high quality and seaworthiness. It was designed for significant cargo capacity, measuring 136 feet in length, with a beam of 23 feet and a depth of 11 feet.
In August 1858, the R.H. Rae set sail on its last voyage, carrying wheat to Montreal. It encountered a fierce storm near Duck’s Creek and capsized, with the crew rescued by the steamer COLONIST.
Significant Incidents
- 1858: The R.H. Rae capsized during a storm near Duck’s Creek, Lake Ontario.
- 1859: An unsuccessful salvage attempt was made.
- 1976: Initially located by Barb Carson.
- 1996: Rediscovered by the Ducks Dive team led by Chris Kohl.
Final Disposition
The R.H. Rae remains submerged and well-preserved, serving as a historical site accessible to divers. Its structure and surrounding artifacts provide insights into 19th-century maritime challenges.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck lies at a depth of 90 feet underwater, with its hull, bow, and distinctive split rudder intact. Divers can observe historical artifacts scattered around the site.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”r-h-rae” title=”References & Links”]
The R.H. Rae offers a valuable glimpse into maritime history, with its advanced design and tragic final voyage illustrating the rigors of early Great Lakes navigation. It is a popular site for recreational divers.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
Join Shotline to read more →