A team of marine history enthusiasts is gearing up for an investigation on a beach in southwestern Ontario this summer to delve into the tragic shipwreck that occurred over a century ago. The SS Erie Belle, a steam tug, met a catastrophic end in 1883 on Lake Huron near Kincardine, resulting in the immediate loss of four lives and injuring two others who later succumbed to their injuries.
Renowned conservationist and wildlife biologist David Galbraith revealed that a malfunctioning boiler was the cause of the shipwreck, prompting him to lead an underwater exploration to uncover additional details. Galbraith, a member of the Ontario Marine Heritage Committee, shared his personal connection to the site, having grown up near the wreckage along the shores of Lake Huron.
Following approval from the province, Galbraith and his team of volunteers obtained a marine archaeology license to conduct the survey without disturbing any artifacts. Their mission involves documenting the site through measurements, recordings, and photographs as outlined by the Ontario Heritage Act, which prohibits unauthorized alteration or retrieval of items from recognized marine archaeological sites.
Galbraith, along with fellow OMHC member Scarlett Janusus, will dedicate their summer to investigating Boiler Beach, named after the shipwreck incident. Janusus emphasized the significance of marine heritage preservation, citing the incompleteness of historical records and the need for a deeper understanding of the SS Erie Belle tragedy, particularly in the Kincardine region.
The project aims to shed light on the steamship’s explosion, a pivotal moment in the area’s maritime history, and contribute to the broader field of marine archaeology in Ontario. Galbraith’s research is anticipated to extend into August, with the scientist emphasizing the continuous pursuit of knowledge through inquiry and exploration.
