Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: W.S. Ireland
• Type: Steam Barge
• Builder: Not recorded
• Dimensions: Not listed in current records
• Location: Near the mouth of the Sydenham River at Snye Carte Channel, Wallaceburg, Ontario
• Official Number: Unknown
• Original Owners: John Cooper

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Steam Barge

Description

The W.S. Ireland was a wood-hulled steam barge used in cargo operations along the inland waterways of southwestern Ontario. It was owned by John Cooper and had just undergone seasonal outfitting for commercial service, likely intended for timber or grain transport along the Sydenham River and into Lake St. Clair via the Snye Carte Channel.

This region of Ontario is historically significant as part of the lower St. Lawrence-Great Lakes waterway system. The channel served as a crucial route for smaller commercial steamers navigating between the river towns and lake ports.

History

On an unspecified Monday, the vessel caught fire and was destroyed near Wallaceburg. Its total loss was valued at $6,000 CAD, with $3,000 CAD covered by insurance. The fire is believed to have occurred shortly after the vessel was made operational for the season. No casualties were reported, though full crew records are not available.

Significant Incidents

• The vessel caught fire shortly after seasonal outfitting, leading to its total loss.

Final Disposition

Nil – No official discovery or dive documentation found.

The wreck’s remains have not been charted on modern navigation charts.

The shallow nature of the Snye Carte Channel and river mouth suggest the remains may be either buried in sediment or long since salvaged.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Nil – No official discovery or dive documentation found.

Resources & Links

References are being reviewed for this wreck.

The W.S. Ireland remains a significant historical vessel within the context of Ontario’s inland waterways, representing the era of steam-powered cargo transport.