Tom Wrong C 33579 (Dick Tinto, S.E. Ives)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Tom Wrong
• Type: Bark, wood
• Year Built: 1853
• Builder: W. Jones, Cleveland, OH
• Dimensions: Length: 117 ft (35.7 m); Beam: 23 ft (7.0 m); Depth of hold: 8 ft (2.4 m)
• Registered Tonnage: 150 tons
• Location: Near Port Burwell, Ontario
• Official Number: C33579
• Original Owners: Canadian ownership in later years
• Number of Masts: Three-masted sailing vessel

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Tom Wrong is classified as a bark, a type of sailing vessel with three masts, originally built as a large tug.

Description

The Tom Wrong was initially constructed as the Dick Tinto in 1853, serving as a tug and wrecker. It underwent several name changes, becoming S.E. Ives in 1856 and finally Tom Wrong in 1863 after being converted into a bark.

History

Throughout her operational history, the Tom Wrong was involved in trade across the Great Lakes, primarily under Canadian ownership. Her design as a tug limited her cargo capacity, but she adapted to her new role as a bark.

Significant Incidents

• November 11, 1866: The Tom Wrong wrecked while attempting to enter Port Burwell during a severe storm, colliding with the harbor piers.

Final Disposition

After the wreck, the owners filed a lawsuit against the harbor authorities, which was unsuccessful. The wreck was sold for $800, significantly less than its original value.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck site near Port Burwell is believed to have been scavenged shortly after the incident, with valuable materials removed. Potential remains may include iron fittings and buried timbers.

Resources & Links

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The story of the Tom Wrong highlights the challenges of Great Lakes shipping in the 1800s, illustrating the vessel’s transformation and the dangers faced by mariners.