Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Sarnia Doc
- Type: Wooden or composite barge or scow
- Year Built: 1929
- Builder: Likely Sarnia, Ontario (exact yard unconfirmed)
- Dimensions: Approximate length 115-148 ft (35-45 m); Beam 26-30 ft (8-9 m); Depth of hold unknown
- Registered Tonnage: Estimated 400-600 tons
- Location: Near Lake Huron shoreline
- Coordinates: Not charted
- Original Owners: Undocumented (local freight operator, likely Ontario registry)
- Number of Masts: Not applicable
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Sarnia Doc was likely a Great Lakes wheat and barley carrier, possibly a scow or barge-type hull, typical of the bulk grain trades in southwestern Ontario in the 1920s. Such vessels were designed to operate under tow or as lighters, moving grain cargo from harbours to larger elevators and terminals.
Description
Launched in 1929, the Sarnia Doc immediately entered the Canadian grain trade, carrying seasonal cargos of wheat and barley between Lake Huron ports and Ontario grain terminals.
History
On 30 November 1929, a severe northwest gale struck Lake Huron, driving the Sarnia Doc ashore with heavy damage. The crew faced immense danger in the pounding surf. Despite extreme conditions, local rescuers managed to bring them off the wreck with considerable difficulty. No loss of life was reported.
The vessel was declared a total loss after stranding, with no salvage attempts recorded, and was likely broken up or dismantled in place.
Significant Incidents
- 30 November 1929: Stranded during a severe northwest gale on Lake Huron.
Final Disposition
Declared a constructive total loss, the Sarnia Doc was left where she stranded and was presumably salvaged piecemeal for lumber or scrap metal.
Current Condition & Accessibility
There is no known modern archaeological or diver survey of her remains.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”sarnia-doc-1929″ title=”References & Links”]
The Sarnia Doc is representative of many grain carriers that faced the perils of late-season shipping on the Great Lakes. Lost to a November gale in 1929, she demonstrates how harsh weather and limited weather forecasting of the era posed grave risks to smaller freight vessels.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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