Identification & Construction

  • Name: Judge Kenefick (renamed H.J. McManus in 1961)
  • Official Number: 148430
  • Year Built: 1925
  • Yard: Earles Shipbuilding Co., Hull, England; launched January 30, 1925
  • Type: Steel, single-screw steam Bulk Carrier
  • Dimensions: 253 ft × 43 ft × 18 ft; 1,745 gross tons
  • Engine: Triple expansion steam engine (17″‑28″‑46″ × 33″)

Ownership Timeline

  • 1925–1936: Eastern Steamship Co., Port Colborne
  • 1936–1953: Upper Lakes & St. Lawrence Transportation Co.
  • 1952: Leitch Transports Ltd.
  • 1953–1959: Norris Grain Co. (under Upper Lakes)
  • 1960–1962: Jemming Enterprises (Midlake Steamship Co.)

In 1961, the vessel was converted into a chemical Barge, renamed H.J. McManus, primarily for hauling sulphuric acid. Her propulsion and autonomy were retained for towing and transfer duties.

Final Disposition: Scuttled After Acid Cargo Damage

  • On July 11, 1964, while loaded with sulphuric acid, H.J. McManus sustained Hull corrosion due to cargo leakage.
  • Found unsafe for further use and deemed a hazard, she was deliberately scuttled in southern Lake Huron.
  • The decision sprang from irreversible structural damage linked to acid exposure, confirmed through internal corrosion inspections.
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Sources & Summary

  • Coronation of vessel history through official registration, yard production, and company records (Upper Lakes, Norris Grain, and Midlake).
  • Confirmed scuttling due to acid-induced Hull perforation—a unique case of abandonment for safety reasons.
  • Specific event mentioned in a 2013 maritime enthusiasts’ report noting the Hull’s acid leakage and July 11, 1964 scuttling.

Research & Investigation Notes

  • Wreck Site: Located somewhere in southern Lake Huron. Scuttling coordinates have not been made public.
  • Wreck Condition: Likely in poor structural integrity due to acid damage; possible environmental hazard or artifact of industrial maritime history.

Next Steps for Exploration

  • Locate official scuttling permit or Transport Canada/U.S. Coast Guard documents for July 1964—this may include coordinates.
  • Consult Upper Lakes vessel files and Norris/Midlake corporate archives for Barge Conversion reports and acid cargo logs.
  • Assess environmental records to determine if the wreck is monitored for chemical leakage or contamination.
  • Field survey opportunity: Conduct ROV or sonar investigation to locate the wreck and evaluate structural/chemical conditions.

Summary

The Judge Kenefick (later H.J. McManus) served nearly 40 years on the Great Lakes before her final Conversion into a sulphuric acid Barge. After catastrophic acid-induced corrosion, she was intentionally scuttled in southern Lake Huron on July 11, 1964. This incident represents a significant example of mid-century industrial maritime practice and highlights potential archaeological and environmental research value.