Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Thousand Islander
- Type: Gas Screw Vessel
- Year Built: 1924
- Builder: Alexandria Bay, New York
- Dimensions: Length: 57.4 ft (17.5 m); Beam: 9.2 ft (2.8 m); Depth of hold: 4.5 ft (1.4 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 14 tons
- Location: Docked at Alexandria Bay, New York
- Official Number: 223896
- Original Owners: D.H. Hass, Alexandria Bay, New York
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
VESSEL TYPE
The Thousand Islander was a gas screw vessel designed for passenger transport in the Thousand Islands region.
Description
DESCRIPTION
The Thousand Islander was a small passenger vessel designed to navigate the intricate waterways of the Thousand Islands region. Built with a wooden hull and powered by a gas screw engine, it served as a reliable ferry for tourists and locals exploring the scenic region. Its modest size and shallow draft made it ideal for traversing the winding channels and inlets of the area.
History
HISTORY & SERVICE
- Purpose: The Thousand Islander was used for passenger transport, catering to the burgeoning tourism industry and providing a convenient means of travel for locals.
- Operations: With a crew of one, the vessel played a vital role in the Thousand Islands’ economy, showcasing the beauty of the region to visitors while supporting local businesses.
Significant Incidents
INCIDENT DETAILS
- Date: June 23, 1925
- Location: Docked at Alexandria Bay, New York
- Event: While docked, the Thousand Islander caught fire with 33 people onboard. Despite the rapid spread of flames, all passengers and the lone crew member evacuated safely.
- Outcome: The vessel was completely destroyed by the fire and deemed a total loss.
Final Disposition
AFTERMATH & LEGACY
- The vessel’s loss was noted in the 1927 Merchant Vessel List of the United States, marking the end of its short but impactful service.
- Legacy: The fire serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by wooden vessels in the early 20th century, particularly those powered by combustible fuels.
- Safety Impact: The quick and efficient evacuation of passengers highlights the importance of safety protocols in preventing loss of life during maritime disasters.
Current Condition & Accessibility
CURRENT STATUS
- Condition: Hull Remains.
- Accessibility: Shore access, Town of Alexandria Bay has made it easy.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”thousand-islander-us-223896″ title=”References & Links”]
SIGNIFICANCE
The Thousand Islander is part of the maritime history of the Thousand Islands region, symbolizing the importance of small passenger vessels to local communities and tourism. Its loss highlights the ever-present risks of fire on early 20th-century wooden vessels and the critical role of safety measures in maritime operations.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
Join Shotline to read more →