In Big Bay Point, Ontario, before dawn on August 14, 1916, a fire broke out on the steamship Otonabee while it was moored at the docks of the Peninsular Hotel. As the fire rapidly grew out of control, the ship’s captain and crew had no choice but to abandon the vessel and escape the flames by diving into the water. The fire not only consumed the Otonabee but also spread to the adjacent docks, causing further chaos and destruction.
The situation took a terrifying turn when the fire reached a lighthouse at the end of the dock, where gas cylinders were stored. The cylinders exploded, turning the lighthouse into a massive fireball and shattering windows and dishes in the surrounding area. The explosion’s impact was so significant that some residents even feared that it was an act of war, reminiscent of the ongoing conflict in Europe at the time.
The aftermath of the incident left many shaken but relieved that the damage was not as catastrophic as initially feared. The Otonabee, once a proud steamship, now lay at the bottom of the lake, with only its smokestack visible above the water. The vessel was beyond repair and left to the depths of the lake, becoming a somber reminder of the disaster that had unfolded on that fateful night.
The events at Big Bay Point in 1916 serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of accidents and the swift spread of destruction in emergency situations. The bravery of the ship’s crew in the face of such a dire circumstance is a testament to the resilience and quick thinking required in times of crisis. The impact of the fire and subsequent explosion reverberated beyond the immediate vicinity, causing fear and confusion among those who heard or felt its effects.
Despite the chaos and destruction, the community eventually came together to assess the damage and move forward from the tragedy. While the loss of the Otonabee was a significant blow, the resilience of the residents and their ability to support one another in the aftermath showcased the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The memory of that night lives on in the history of Big Bay Point, a reminder of the power of unity and courage in the most challenging of circumstances.