A team of enthusiasts in marine archaeology will explore a beach in southwestern Ontario this summer to investigate a tragic shipwreck from over a century ago. The SS Erie Belle, a steam tug, suffered a violent explosion in 1883 on Lake Huron near Kincardine, resulting in the immediate death of four crew members and two more succumbing to injuries later on. While it is known that a malfunctioning boiler caused the disaster, biologist David Galbraith is leading an underwater expedition to uncover more details.
Galbraith, a member of the Ontario Marine Heritage Committee, shared his personal connection to the wreck, mentioning how it has intrigued him since childhood. With the support of the province, Galbraith and his volunteer team have been granted a license to conduct the survey, focusing on documentation rather than artifact removal, as mandated by the Ontario Heritage Act.
The expedition will take place at Boiler Beach throughout the summer, with retired marine archaeologist Scarlett Janusus emphasizing the significance of this research in shedding light on the area’s history. Janusus highlighted the importance of marine heritage preservation, especially considering the gaps in historical records regarding the SS Erie Belle’s tragic fate. She expressed her backing for Galbraith’s initiative, underscoring the need for more marine archaeological endeavors in the region.
Galbraith’s scientific approach to the survey indicates a commitment to thorough investigation, recognizing that each discovery leads to further questions and a continuous learning process. The fieldwork is anticipated to extend into August, with the understanding that this initial exploration is just the beginning of a broader exploration into the maritime history of the area.
