Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: S.S. Northumberland
- Type: Wooden passenger steamer (later excursion ferry)
- Year Built: 1891
- Builder: Neptune Works, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Port Dalhousie, Ontario
- Official Number: 96937
- Original Owners: Charlottetown Steam Navigation Co., Government of Canada, Canadian National Railways
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The S.S. Northumberland was a wooden passenger steamer, later serving as an excursion ferry. It was designed for passenger comfort and featured elegant accommodations.
Description
Constructed in 1891, the S.S. Northumberland was known for its size and elegance, providing service on various routes including the Gulf of St. Lawrence and later on Lake Ontario. It was powered by twin triple-expansion steam engines, achieving speeds of approximately 15.5 knots.
History
The vessel operated under the Charlottetown Steam Navigation Company from 1891 to 1906, and after a change in ownership, continued under the same company until 1916. It was purchased by the Government of Canada in 1916 and integrated into the Canadian National Railways network in 1920. After being refitted as an excursion steamer, it notably served the Toronto-Port Dalhousie route.
Significant Incidents
- June 2, 1949: A sudden onboard fire occurred while docked at Port Dalhousie, resulting in an intense blaze that gutted the vessel to the waterline.
Final Disposition
The S.S. Northumberland was deemed a constructive total loss due to the fire. It was sold as scrap by September 1949 and broken up, with no physical wreckage remaining in the water.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As there is no remaining wreckage, the site of the S.S. Northumberland does not exist for diving or exploration.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”s-s-northumberland-c-96937″ title=”References & Links”]
The Northumberland was a significant vessel in Canadian maritime history, serving nearly 58 years before its abrupt end. Its legacy continues to provide insight into the evolution of regional marine travel in Canada.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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