Exploring and Preserving the Shipwrecks of Prince Edward County
The Picton Project, led by SLD’s Liason Corey Phillips, is a dedicated initiative focused on the discovery, documentation, and preservation of shipwrecks in Prince Edward County and the Bay of Quinte region. This historically rich area, known for its treacherous shoals and stormy waters, has been the final resting place for numerous vessels spanning over two centuries of maritime history. With dozens of documented wrecks and new sites continually being explored, the Picton Project is uncovering a fascinating underwater legacy.
Collaborative Partnerships
The Picton Project works in close collaboration with key organizations committed to maritime preservation and historical research:
- Preserve Our Wrecks (POW) Kingston – Supporting education and conservation efforts to protect Ontario’s underwater heritage.
- Save Ontario Shipwrecks (SOS) – Engaging in wreck documentation, mooring programs, and diver education to promote responsible exploration.
- 3DShipwrecks.org – Bringing shipwrecks to life through high-resolution 3D photogrammetry, allowing for digital preservation and global accessibility.
Shipwrecks of Prince Edward County
The Bay of Quinte, Prince Edward Bay, and surrounding waters have long been a challenging passage for mariners, leading to numerous wrecks, many of which remain well-preserved in the cold, fresh waters.
Among the notable shipwrecks in the region:
- Annie Falconer – A three-masted schooner, lost in a violent storm in 1904, resting upright and remarkably intact.
- City of Sheboygan – A mid-19th century wooden schooner, well-known among divers for its impressive condition.
- Florence – A wooden Tugboat, one of many wrecks illustrating the region’s shipping history.
Many of these wrecks remain accessible to recreational divers, while others are still being explored and documented by the Picton Project team.
Mission and Goals
The Picton Project is committed to:
- ✅ Surveying and documenting shipwrecks in Prince Edward County and the Bay of Quinte.
- ✅ Preserving maritime history through responsible diving practices and public awareness campaigns.
- ✅ Expanding access to historical wrecks through 3D photogrammetry and digital archiving.
- ✅ Promoting safe exploration and community engagement through partnerships with local divers, historians, and underwater archaeologists.
Preserving the Past, Engaging the Future
With each dive and discovery, the Picton Project continues to unveil the hidden history beneath the waves, ensuring that these maritime relics remain a valuable educational and cultural resource. By leveraging modern technology, historical research, and community collaboration, the project is bringing the legacy of these shipwrecks to light while fostering a greater appreciation for our underwater heritage.
