Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Signal
- Type: sternwheel steamer
- Year Built: 1896
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Wiarton, Ontario
- Original Owners: Signal Towing & Rafting Co.
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Wooden sternwheel excursion steamer.
Description
The Signal was built in 1896 as a passenger excursion vessel, primarily serving tourist and transport services around Lake Huron. It was owned by Signal Towing & Rafting Co. from 1901.
History
The Signal served as a key excursion and towing steamer starting in 1896. After its acquisition by Signal Towing & Rafting Co. in 1901, it was utilized for tourism and transport around the Bruce Peninsula. The vessel’s destruction by fire reflects a pattern of timber-hulled steam vessels of the era facing critical risks while moored.
Significant Incidents
- Final Incident: On October 2, 1905, the Signal was docked at Wiarton or in nearby harbor waters when it was destroyed by fire while docked. The vessel completely burned and was declared a total loss. No casualties were reported as the crew safely evacuated.
- The tug Marion Trotter and steamer J.E. Mills assisted in efforts to remove the vessel from the rocky dock area prior to complete destruction.
Final Disposition
The Signal was declared a total loss after the fire incident. The vessel was completely burned and no salvage was possible.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the wreck is unknown, but it is confirmed that the vessel was lost to fire.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”signal-1902″ title=”References & Links”]
The Signal remains a significant historical vessel in the region, representing the risks faced by timber-hulled steam vessels in the early 20th century.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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