Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Unidentified Barge – "Wreck 3"
- Type: Flat-deck barge
- Year Built:
- Builder: Unknown
- Dimensions: Approx. 148 ft (45 m); Unknown; Unknown
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Martindale Pond, St. Catharines, Ontario
- Original Owners: Unrecorded, possibly tied to Welland Canal service
- Number of Masts: None
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Flat-deck barge
Description
This unidentified barge, also referred to as “Large Barge – Northeast Martindale,” is located near the eastern canal alignment. It became highly visible during the 1965 pond drainage event, confirming its dimensions and condition.
Historical note: The vessel’s full outline appeared clearly in archival images from 1965, indicating it has remained largely undisturbed for decades.
History
This large barge may have functioned as a bulk material transporter or floating platform during the active years of the Third Welland Canal. It is believed to have been out of service by the early 1950s and subsequently left in place as operations ceased and the Fourth Canal came into use.
The 1965 drainage of Martindale Pond confirmed the wreck’s dimensions and helped bring local attention to the relic. Its strategic positioning within the former canal work zone supports speculation that it was purposefully scuttled or left to sink once decommissioned.
Significant Incidents
- Date of Abandonment: Circa early 1950s
- How: Presumed deliberate abandonment or partial sinking in place
Final Disposition
The wreck is presumed to have been deliberately abandoned or partially sunk in place around the early 1950s. The condition of the wreck is noted as a well-preserved hull outline, with some structure likely buried in pond sediment. It is suitable for shallow documentation dives or heritage surveying.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The barge is currently submerged but shallow enough for visual documentation, snorkel, drone, or small ROV surveys. It remains accessible for divers interested in heritage surveying.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”unidentified-barge-wreck-3″ title=”References & Links”]
If you have family photos, stories, or any historical details about this or nearby wrecks in Martindale Pond, send them to Shotline Diving to help preserve and identify the canal’s hidden history.
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