IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

  • Name: Monarch (originally W.H. Simpson)
  • Type: Tugboat
  • Built: 1889, Sheboygan, Wisconsin
  • Final Location: St. Clair River, Sarnia, Ontario
  • Coordinates: Exact coordinates not provided
  • Depth: 60 feet (18 meters)
  • Length: 63 feet (19 meters)

VESSEL DESCRIPTION

The Monarch, originally launched as the W.H. Simpson, was a wooden-hulled Tugboat designed for towing operations in the Great Lakes. With a compact but powerful design, it played an essential role in assisting larger vessels in the region.

  • Hull Material: Wood
  • Length: 63 feet (19 meters)
  • Construction Site: Sheboygan, Wisconsin

HISTORY

Construction and Service:

The Monarch was built in 1889 and operated under the name W.H. Simpson. It was a hardworking Tugboat involved in various towing and assistance operations on the Great Lakes.

Final Voyage (July 6, 1934):

  • Incident Summary:
    • The Tug was towing the Steamer C.F. Bielman when it encountered difficulties.
    • During the operation, the Monarch sank in the St. Clair River.
  • Outcome:
    • Tragically, four lives were lost in the sinking.

CURRENT CONDITION

  • Wreck Description:
    • The wreck of the Monarch rests at a depth of 60 feet in the St. Clair River.
    • Due to the river’s currents and sediment, parts of the Tug may be buried or obscured.
  • Visibility:
    • Visibility can vary significantly depending on river conditions and boat traffic.
  • Access:
    • Suitable for intermediate to advanced divers due to the strong currents in the St. Clair River.

DIVE SITE DETAILS

Driving Directions:

  • Take Michigan Road to the base of the Bluewater Bridge in Sarnia, Ontario.
  • Follow south along the waterfront for approximately 500 feet.
  • Parking is available nearby.

Entry Point:

Shore access is possible near the parking area, with a surface swim to the wreck site.

Safety Notes:

  • Strong Currents: The St. Clair River is known for its fast-flowing water, requiring careful planning and the use of safety lines.
  • Dive Flags: Ensure proper signaling due to boat traffic in the area.

SIGNIFICANCE

The Monarch serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by early Tugboat crews on the Great Lakes. Its loss highlights the challenges of towing operations and the risks posed by unpredictable conditions in narrow, fast-flowing waterways like the St. Clair River.

REFERENCES & LINKS

CONCLUSION

The wreck of the Monarch offers divers a chance to explore a piece of Great Lakes maritime history. While the strong currents of the St. Clair River add an element of challenge, the site’s accessibility and historical significance make it a compelling destination for experienced divers.

KEYWORDS #Shipwrecks #Monarch #Tugboat #StClairRiver #GreatLakesHistory #Diving

Note for Divers:

Before diving on the Monarch wreck site, it is essential to confirm water and current conditions with local dive shops or authorities, as the St. Clair River can present challenges not suitable for inexperienced divers.