Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Wales
- Type: Wooden-hulled steamer, later converted to sailing vessel
- Year Built: 1864
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length: 110 ft (33.53 m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 6.1 m / 20 ft
- Location: East side of Longuissa Point in Longuissa Bay
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Originally a wooden-hulled steamer, later converted to a sailing vessel.
Description
The Wales was a 110-foot (33.53 meters) wooden vessel launched in 1864. Initially built as a steamer, she was later converted to sail. Alongside her sister ships, the Ontario and the Chippewa, the Wales played a significant role in the timber trade, operating primarily for Muskoka Mills at the mouth of the Musquash River.
History
Throughout her operational life, the Wales was integral to the lumber industry in the Georgian Bay area. Working in conjunction with her sister ships, she transported timber and related materials, contributing to the economic development of the region during the late 19th century. Her robust design allowed her to navigate the challenging waterways of the Musquash River and Georgian Bay, ensuring the steady supply of timber to various markets.
Significant Incidents
- In 1895, after years of dedicated service, the Wales was deemed unseaworthy and abandoned.
Final Disposition
In 1895, after years of dedicated service, the Wales was deemed unseaworthy and abandoned on the east side of Longuissa Point in Longuissa Bay. Her large hull now rests in 10-20 feet (3.05-6.10 meters) of water.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the Wales has been known to local historians and divers for many years. Specific details about the initial discovery or exploration of the site are not extensively documented. However, the wreck’s location is well-known among the diving community, particularly those exploring the Musquash River area.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”wales-1864″ title=”References & Links”]
The Wales serves as a historical artifact, reflecting the rich maritime heritage of the Georgian Bay region. Her remains offer insights into the construction and operation of 19th-century wooden vessels that were pivotal to the timber industry. The site continues to be of interest to divers and historians, contributing to the understanding of the area’s industrial past.
Legacy Notes & Full Historical Record
This section preserves the original unedited Shotline content for this wreck so that no historical detail is lost as we transition to the new logbook format.
Identification & Site Information
- Name: Wales
- Former Names: None documented
- Registration Number: Not available
- Date Built and Launched: 1864
- Measurements: Length: 110 feet (33.53 meters)
- Date Lost: 1895
Vessel Type
Originally a wooden-hulled steamer, later converted to a sailing vessel
Description
The Wales was a 110-foot (33.53 meters) wooden vessel launched in 1864. Initially built as a steamer, she was later converted to sail. Alongside her sister ships, the Ontario and the Chippewa, the Wales played a significant role in the timber trade, operating primarily for Muskoka Mills at the mouth of the Musquash River.
History
Throughout her operational life, the Wales was integral to the lumber industry in the Georgian Bay area. Working in conjunction with her sister ships, she transported timber and related materials, contributing to the economic development of the region during the late 19th century. Her robust design allowed her to navigate the challenging waterways of the Musquash River and Georgian Bay, ensuring the steady supply of timber to various markets.
Final Disposition
In 1895, after years of dedicated service, the Wales was deemed unseaworthy and abandoned on the east side of Longuissa Point in Longuissa Bay. Her large hull now rests in 10-20 feet (3.05-6.10 meters) of water.
Located By & Date Found
The wreck of the Wales has been known to local historians and divers for many years. Specific details about the initial discovery or exploration of the site are not extensively documented. However, the wreck’s location is well-known among the diving community, particularly those exploring the Musquash River area.
Notices to Mariners & Advisories
Mariners navigating the Musquash River and Longuissa Bay should exercise caution due to the presence of submerged hazards, including the remains of the Wales and other vessels. The shallow depths and potential for underwater obstructions necessitate careful navigation, especially near Longuissa Point where the Wales is located.
Resources & Links
Conclusion
The Wales serves as a historical artifact, reflecting the rich maritime heritage of the Georgian Bay region. Her remains offer insights into the construction and operation of 19th-century wooden vessels that were pivotal to the timber industry. The site continues to be of interest to divers and historians, contributing to the understanding of the area’s industrial past.
Suggested Keywords: Wales shipwreck, Musquash River, Georgian Bay maritime history, Muskoka Mills, timber trade vessels
Categories: Maritime History, Shipwrecks, Canadian Transportation History
Glossary Terms:
- Wooden-Hulled Steamer: A steam-powered vessel with a hull constructed from wood, commonly used in the 19th century.
- Timber Trade: The industry and activities related to the production and transportation of lumber.
- Muskoka Mills: A historical lumber mill operation located at the mouth of the Musquash River, significant in Ontario’s timber industry.
- Longuissa Bay: A bay in Georgian Bay, Ontario, Canada, known for its historical shipwrecks.