Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: R. W. Standly
- Type: Wooden propeller steamer
- Year Built: 1846
- Builder: J. W. Banta in Buffalo
- Dimensions: 170 × 27 × 11 ft; approximately 460 tons
- Registered Tonnage: 460 tons
- Location: Dominion Wharf, Hamilton, Ontario
- Official Number: No surviving official number
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Construction: Wooden-hulled propeller steamer
Description
The R. W. Standly was a wooden-hulled propeller steamer built in 1846 by J. W. Banta in Buffalo. It measured approximately 170 feet in length, 27 feet in beam, and had a depth of hold of 11 feet, with a registered tonnage of about 460 tons. The last known status of the vessel was moored at Dominion Wharf in Hamilton, Ontario.
History
The R. W. Standly played a significant role in early steam navigation on the Upper Great Lakes. Its destruction in 1875, alongside other vessels, highlighted the persistent fire hazards associated with wooden waterfront infrastructure.
Significant Incidents
- Date of Loss: October 8, 1875
- Event: Destroyed by fire while docked at Dominion Wharf, Hamilton, Ontario—alongside propellers Zealand, Bristol, and others.
- Casualties: Reported 1 life lost in the dock fire.
- Financial Impact: Total estimated loss approximately $40,000.
Final Disposition
The hull of the R. W. Standly was consumed by the fire, and the remains were likely dismantled or salvaged post-fire. The incident raised questions about dockside fire safety due to its occurrence in a busy waterfront area, implicating multiple vessels and wharf structures.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the site is unknown, but it is presumed that the wreckage was removed following the fire. There may be opportunities for underwater or shoreline surveys at the site of Dominion Wharf for any remaining metal artifacts or hull fastenings.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”r-w-standly-1846″ title=”References & Links”]
The loss of the R. W. Standly not only resulted in significant financial loss and the tragic loss of life but also likely influenced local harbor safety and insurance practices in Hamilton.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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