A team of enthusiasts passionate about marine archaeology will explore a beach in southwestern Ontario this summer to delve into the history of a tragic shipwreck that occurred over a hundred years ago. The SS Erie Belle, a steam tug, suffered a catastrophic explosion in 1883 on Lake Huron near Kincardine, claiming the lives of four crew members instantly, with two more succumbing to injuries in the following weeks. While it is known that a malfunctioning boiler caused the disaster, conservation and wildlife biologist David Galbraith is spearheading an underwater survey to uncover further insights.
Growing up near Lake Huron, Galbraith has long been familiar with the wreckage on the shore, sparking his interest in documenting it. Following discussions with friends, the decision was made to undertake the survey. The provincial authorities have granted Galbraith and his volunteer team a marine archaeology license to conduct the investigation. Their primary focus will be on documenting the site through measurements and photography, as they are not permitted to disturb or remove any artifacts due to regulations under the Ontario Heritage Act.
Galbraith, a member of the Ontario Marine Heritage Committee, will be stationed at Boiler Beach throughout the summer, where he will lead the research efforts. Retired marine archaeologist Scarlett Janusus, also a committee member, emphasized the importance of understanding the region’s maritime history, especially given the gaps in written records regarding the SS Erie Belle explosion. She expressed her support for Galbraith’s project, highlighting the need for more marine archaeology initiatives in the province.
The fieldwork, set to extend into August, is viewed as just the beginning of a comprehensive exploration process. Galbraith stressed the iterative nature of scientific inquiry, stating that every answer leads to more questions. The project aims to shed light on the events surrounding the tragic shipwreck, contributing to a broader understanding of marine heritage in the Kincardine area and beyond.