Rob Roy | Regional Science Consortium

Identification & Site Information

Vessel Type

Wooden-hulled Schooner Barge(Naval Marine Archive)

Description

The Rob Roy was a wooden-hulled Schooner Barge constructed in 1897 in Picton, Ontario. Measuring 144 feet (43.9 meters) in length with a beam of 31 feet (9.4 meters) and a depth of 10.3 feet (3.1 meters), she had a Gross Tonnage of 354.88 and a Net Tonnage of 340.69. Designed for cargo transport, she was primarily used for hauling coal across the Great Lakes.(Naval Marine Archive)

History

Launched in 1897, the Rob Roy served as a cargo vessel on the Great Lakes, primarily transporting coal. She was owned by Arthur William Hepburn of Picton, Ontario, and later by Canada Steamship Lines.(Naval Marine Archive)

On September 17, 1916, while en route from Erie, Pennsylvania, to Port Colborne, Ontario, under tow by the Tug Home Rule, the Rob Roy Foundered approximately five miles off Erie. The vessel began taking on water due to her deteriorated condition and the heavy seas. Despite efforts to save her, she sank with 600 tons of coal aboard. Fortunately, the crew was rescued by the Home Rule and returned safely to shore.(Regional Science Consortium | Erie, PA)

Final Disposition

Following the sinking, the wreck of the Rob Roy was marked with a light to warn other vessels of the navigation hazard. Soundings were taken to assess the wreck’s position. The vessel was declared a Total Loss.(Naval Marine Archive)

Located By & Date Found

The wreck of the Rob Roy lies approximately 5 miles off Erie, Pennsylvania, in Lake Erie. Specific coordinates are not documented in the available sources.

NOTMARs & Advisories

At the time of the sinking, the wreck was marked with a light to warn mariners. Current navigational warnings or advisories related to the Rob Roy wreck site are not documented.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The Rob Roy serves as a historical example of the challenges faced by cargo vessels on the Great Lakes during the early 20th century. Her loss underscores the importance of vessel maintenance and the perils of maritime navigation in that era.

Suggested Keywords, Categories, and Glossary Terms

Note: Due to the lack of specific information regarding the current accessibility of the Rob Roy wreck, shore dive information is not applicable.