For over 128 years, a mysterious shipwreck has rested on the southwest shore of Vancouver Island in Ucluelet, B.C., captivating locals and visitors alike. But now, the storied wreck is at the center of a new mystery following a fire that scorched the historic landmark.
The incident, reported early Tuesday morning, initially appeared to be a brush fire. However, when fire crews arrived around 5 a.m., they discovered the iconic wreck ablaze. Deputy Fire Chief Markus McRurie confirmed the fire was extinguished within an hour. Despite its historical significance, the RCMP have said they are not investigating the incident.
The wreck, known as the “Big Beach Mystery Shipwreck,” lies in a region infamous for shipwrecks—dubbed the “Graveyard of the Pacific.” Spanning from Oregon to Vancouver Island, this treacherous stretch has claimed an estimated 2,000 vessels since 1792. While most have vanished, the Ucluelet wreck was a rare surviving relic.
An informational plaque near the site suggests the ship dates back to the mid-to-late 1800s and was likely constructed on the northwest coast of the Americas. Though its exact identity is unknown, it has become a cherished piece of local heritage.
Geoff Johnson, a local resident known for sharing regional content as “Ukee Tube,” expressed sorrow over the damage. The shipwreck has appeared in countless wedding and graduation photos, as well as his own music videos. Johnson noted that while the wreck remains partially intact, many of the large wooden sections and pins holding it together have fallen out due to the fire.
Ucluelet fire chief Rick Geddes emphasized the importance of safe fire practices. While beach bonfires are allowed, they must be properly controlled and extinguished. Although the exact cause of the blaze is unknown, Geddes warned the incident is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by human-caused fires—especially amid high fire risk conditions across British Columbia.
For Johnson and many others in Ucluelet, the damaged wreck is more than charred timber—it’s a painful loss of history and identity.
Swifteradio.com
