SHIPWRECKS

OF MASSACHUSETTS BAY

© Copyright 2003-2005, Northern Atlantic Dive Expeditions, Inc.

All Rights Reserved

 

 

This section is comprised of shipwrecks that are have been dived, but not identified, or are not of particular interest such that a dive is justified. 

 

Index of Unknowns:

 

Bates Barge

183 Barge

Pier 7 Barge

 

 

"BATES" BARGE


Type: Wooden barge
LOA: 200'x30' (estimated)
Construction: Wood
Date of Loss: Unknown
Reason: Unknown
Depth of Water: 180'

 

History:

 
This wreck was located by fisherman Ray Bates of Marblehead, MA and was visited by divers in June of 2004.
 
The wreck is a large wooden barge, possibly self propelled.  Two shaft-like structures were located, however no machinery could be found. If it exists, it is likely that it is buried in the mud, as the wreck is nearly flush with the sea floor.  There is very little relief as a result and in some places it is easy to loose orientation and the ability to discern what is wreckage and what is sea floor.  The wreck area is relatively featureless.  Some items that were observed included hausers, tiles and fasteners to join wooden beams together.  The bow area is somewhat defined, though areas of the wreck taper off to debris.  The stern area is cluttered with extremely large dragger nets, some of which are still suspended 30-40 feet into the water column.  Extreme caution is warranted when diving this wreck site. 
 
This wreck is like many scuttled wooden barges in the area - not of historical importance and unlikely to be identified.  It is possibly the L&WBC #1, a turn-of-the-century coal barge. However, vessels of this type were numerous and sinkings were not well documented.
 
Photos:
 
   
A large hauser (left).  Heather Knowles explores the debris (right)
 
   
Brass spike fasteners remain amongst rotten wood beams (left).  Lea Nichols illuminates a shaft-like structure (right).
 
Dave Caldwell tries to catch a cod fish.
 
 
 

183 BARGE

This wreck was located in February 2005 during a side scan survey.  This is most likely a steel barge and was resting in 240 feet of water.  There are no plans to dive this wreck.  Side scan image @ 100 kHz. 

 

PIER 7 BARGE

This wreck, target 660, was located in February 2005 during a side scan survey.  This barge is resting in 205 feet of water and is most likely wood.  There are no plans to dive this wreck.  Side scan image @ 100 kHz, 150 m. 

 

  

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