Identification & Site Information

  • Name: Waubic
  • Former Names: None recorded
  • Registration Number(s): C122555
  • Date Built and Launched: 1909
  • Measurements: Length: 134 feet (40.8 meters); Beam: 25 feet (7.6 meters); Depth: 9 feet (2.7 meters); Gross Tonnage: 504; Net Tonnage: 224
  • Date Lost, Destroyed, Abandoned: January 18, 1938

Vessel Type

Steel-hulled propeller Steamer, utilized for passenger and package freight services.

Description

Constructed in 1909 by the Collingwood Shipbuilding Company in Collingwood, Ontario, the Waubic was a steel-hulled propeller Steamer designed for passenger and package freight transport. The vessel measured 134 feet (40.8 meters) in length, with a beam of 25 feet (7.6 meters) and a depth of 9 feet (2.7 meters), registering a Gross Tonnage of 504 and a Net Tonnage of 224. Throughout its operational life, the Waubic served various routes across the Great Lakes, contributing significantly to regional transportation.

History

On January 18, 1938, while docked at the east pier of Kingsville Harbour on Lake Erie, the Waubic was engulfed by a devastating fire. The blaze consumed the vessel, reducing it to its steel framework. The specific cause of the fire remains undocumented in the available sources. Despite the extensive damage, the vessel’s steel Hull remained intact, leading to its subsequent salvage and reconstruction. The Rebuilt vessel was renamed Erie Isle and resumed service in the Great Lakes region. In 1942, it underwent another transformation, being renamed Prince Nova. The vessel met its final demise on July 6, 1959, when it was destroyed by fire in Pictou, Nova Scotia.

Final Disposition

Following the fire in Kingsville Harbour, the Waubic was declared a Total Loss. However, the vessel was salvaged, Rebuilt, and continued operations under new names until its ultimate destruction by fire in 1959.

Located By & Date Found

Not applicable, as the vessel was salvaged and Rebuilt after the incident.

NOTMARs & Advisories

Nil

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The Waubic‘s history reflects the resilience and adaptability of Great Lakes maritime operations during the early to mid-20th century. Despite being gutted by fire in 1938, the vessel’s reconstruction and continued service under new identities underscore the economic and operational imperatives of the time. The Waubic‘s multiple reincarnations until its final loss in 1959 serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of Great Lakes steamers.

Keywords, Categories, and Glossary Terms

  • Keywords: Waubic, Erie Isle, Prince Nova, Kingsville Harbour, Great Lakes Steamer, ship fire
  • Categories: Maritime History, Great Lakes Vessels, Ship Fires
  • Glossary Terms: Propeller Steamer, Gross Tonnage, Net Tonnage