Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Rapid City
- Type: Wooden fishing or small commercial schooner
- Year Built: 1857
- Builder: Donaldson & Andrews, St. Catharines, Ontario
- Dimensions: 136 × 23 × 11 ft; 344 tons burthen
- Registered Tonnage: 344 tons
- Location: Near Scarborough Bluffs, Lake Ontario
- Original Owners: Rae Bros. & Co. of Hamilton, Ontario
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Rapid City was a wooden fishing or small commercial schooner, originally built for trans-Atlantic trade but later adapted for local Great Lakes service.
Description
Constructed in 1857 by Donaldson & Andrews in St. Catharines, Ontario, the Rapid City measured 136 feet in length, 23 feet in beam, and had a hold depth of 11 feet. It was registered at 344 tons burthen.
History
The Rapid City was initially intended for ocean-going service but transitioned to local roles on the Great Lakes. It was owned by Rae Bros. & Co. of Hamilton, Ontario.
Significant Incidents
- On August 31, 1917, the Rapid City foundered near Scarborough Bluffs during a severe white squall.
- Captain Andrew Henderson died in the incident, and some crew members were lost while others attempted to escape.
- Survivors were reportedly rescued by the propeller Colonist.
Final Disposition
Following the sinking, extensive salvage efforts were made in 1918 but were unsuccessful. The total loss was estimated at approximately $20,000.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck lies offshore near Scarborough Bluffs at a likely moderate depth. The exact location, condition, and debris field remain uncharted, with no formal dive or survey expeditions recorded.
Resources
[shotline_reference_links slug=”rapid-city-1857″ title=”Resources”]