Divers start work to identify War of 1812 ship

Lake Ontario divers were scheduled to begin work this week near Kingston, Ontario to confirm the discovery of the wreckage of the Canadian-built ship, the HMS Wolfe.

The HMS Wolfe is credited with playing a pivotal role in the War of 1812. Involved with numerous battles throughout the war, the flagship of British naval commander James Yeo helped to thwart the U.S. invasion of Canada. It was scuttled years later after it had outlived its usefulness.

According to various online sources, marine archaeologists will be taking measurements and core samples in a collaborative effort between Parks Canada and the Preserve Our Wrecks heritage organization.

The wreckage was found about four years ago, but interest in its possible identity was spurred in recent months by media coverage.

Also recently discovered in Lake Ontario were the American ships Hamilton and Scourge also from the War of 1812 and the HMS Ontario from the Revolutionary War.