Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Thomas Richards
- Type: Wooden scow
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions:
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Near Port Hope, Ontario
- Official Number: Not located in available records
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Wooden scow
Description
The Thomas Richards was a wooden scow, a type of flat-bottomed vessel commonly used in the 19th century for transporting bulk cargoes such as timber, coal, and grain across the Great Lakes. Scows were particularly suited for shallow waters and were often employed in coastal and riverine trade routes. Specific details regarding the construction, dimensions, and tonnage of the Thomas Richards are not documented in the available records.
History
In 1875, the Thomas Richards encountered a severe storm while navigating near Port Hope, Ontario, on Lake Ontario. The vessel was driven ashore and beached in an attempt to seek refuge from the gale. Details about the cargo she carried at the time or the specific circumstances leading to her beaching are not provided in the available records. There is no information indicating any loss of life resulting from this incident.
Significant Incidents
- 1875: The Thomas Richards was driven ashore during a severe storm near Port Hope, Ontario.
Final Disposition
Following the beaching incident in 1875, there is no further information available regarding the fate of the Thomas Richards. It is unclear whether the vessel was salvaged, repaired, or ultimately dismantled. The absence of subsequent records suggests that the scow may have been deemed a total loss.
Current Condition & Accessibility
No information available regarding the discovery or current location of the Thomas Richards‘ wreck.
Resources & Links
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The Thomas Richards‘ beaching near Port Hope in 1875 underscores the challenges faced by maritime vessels on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. While specific details about the vessel’s construction and service history are scarce, the incident highlights the perils of lake navigation during that era. Further research into local archives and historical societies may provide additional insights into the Thomas Richards‘ story.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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