The Sinking of the "Waubuno" 1879
Text from the plaque
This anchor, recovered in 1959, belonged to the steamer "Waubuno", a wooden sidewheeler of some 180 tonnes which was built at Port Robinson in 1865. She carried freight and passengers in the shipping trade which flourished on Lake Huron during the nineteenth century. Commanded by Captain J. Burkett, she sailed from Collingwood on November 22, 1879, bound for Parry Sound. The "Waubuno" encountered a violent gale later that day and sank in Georgian Bay some 32 km south of here. All on board perished, and although some wreckage was later discovered, the bodies of the 24 victims were never found. The specific cause of this disaster has never been determined.
Transcribed from the marker, not summarised.
Find the place
The District of Parry Sound
The Town of Parry Sound
In Waubuno Park beside the parking lot near an anchor
at the foot of Prospect Street
N 45 20.738 W 80 02.652
Recorded May 2005. Check current access before visiting.
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Visitors' notes
September 28, 2012
Hello Louise: I took my young family snorkelling at the site of the hull wreck a few years ago and since have been caught into the mystery. I think of the sinking often and particularly at its anniversary. I would appreciate a copy of the Star article. My question for you: I have not found any recent new findings in many years. I would suspect that someone still searches for the superstructure with new and improved devices. Are you aware of any recent activities? The odd time that I am in Midland and in Kingston, I always take time to look at the articles and paintings of the Waubuno (even though I know that the painting hanging in Kingston is not accurate at all). Best regards, David Domanski
February 26, 2009
Hello. My name is Louise Blanchette and I am the daughter of George Little. He was one of the divers who went down and found items from the ship. They include a pistol and several coins. There was also a news release in the Toronto Star about their findings. If you would like a copy of the article, please contact me through email