Story
This freighter was built in 1943 by Goole Shipbuilding & Repairing Co. Ltd..
Historical Notes
This vessel served in World War II as a supply ship provisioning the allied effort in Europe. Continental Explosives was a subsidiary of Canadian Industries Ltd. (CIL). For the last ten years of her life above water, the G.B. Church was moored in the Pitt and Fraser Rivers near Vancouver BC, slowly deteriorating through neglect. This vessel was struck from the Registry on June 26, 1992. On August 10, 1991 this vessel was sunk as an artificial reef by the Artificial Reef Society of British Columbia at what is now known as Church Reef.
Owners & Masters
In 1943-1966 she was owned by Imperial Chemical Industries - Alkali Co. Ltd., Liverpool UK.
In 1966-1973 she was owned by Continental Explosives Ltd., Vancouver BC Canada.
In 1973-1976 she was owned by Westof Marine Ltd., North Vancouver BC Canada.
In 1976-1984 she was owned by Centennial Towing Ltd., Surrey BC Canada.
She was owned by Tofino Fisheries.
In 1984-1992 she was owned by #267866 British Columbia Ltd., Vancouver BC Canada.
Name Significance
Named for George Bennett Church, father of owner Bill Church.
Rebuilds
She was rebuilt at Burrard Shipyard, Vancouver BC.
References
- Canada List of Shipping
- canakeesdiving.ca ↗
- www.wrecksite.eu ↗
- recherche-collection-search.bac-lac.gc.ca ↗ (website viewed 19/05/2025)
