The Erie Stewart historic ship’s anchor will soon be installed as the centrepiece of the new roundabout at the intersection of Highway 21 and Bruce Road 13 in Southampton.
The Town says the anchor was recovered from the wreck of the Erie Stewart by divers in the summer of 1957, noting it will serve as a gateway feature welcoming residents and visitors to Southampton while celebrating the community’s rich marine heritage.
Mayor Luke Charbonneau says, “Southampton’s history is closely tied to Lake Huron, and this anchor is a meaningful way to honour that connection,” adding, “It’s fitting that, as people enter the community, they will be welcomed by a symbol of the marine heritage that is such an important part of Southampton’s identity.”
According to the Town, the Erie Stewart was a two-masted schooner that wrecked during a storm off Southampton in 1907 after it was unable to navigate into Southampton’s historic Harbour of Refuge.
The vessel struck the Island Dock while trying to enter the harbour, damaging both the dock and range light. While the crew made it to safety, the remnants of the vessel lay near the harbour’s entrance, becoming part of the area’s maritime story.
The anchor is being refurbished and relocated from downtown Southampton to the roundabout with support from the Marine Heritage Society. Refurbishment has included sandblasting and recoating, as well as replacement of the deteriorating wooden cross. It will be installed securely on a concrete pad at the centre of the roundabout.
Image from town of Saugeen Shores
Image from Town of Saugeen Shores