Brock researchers studying the Niagara region’s rich maritime history are getting a $30,000 boost from the Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority (HOPA).

The University’s most recent maritime heritage research involves the archaeological excavation of the abandoned Shickluna Shipyard along St. Catharines’ Twelve Mile Creek, which began in 2019. As the first research project of its kind in Canada, the ongoing fieldwork, led by Adjunct Professor of History and maritime historian Kimberly Monk, investigates how the shipbuilding industry shaped Niagara’s social and economic development.

Building on its existing partnership with the University and aiming to support the Brock community with unique learning opportunities related to the marine sector, HOPA Ports has made a generous gift of $30,000 to support the project.

“We are thrilled to support Brock’s ongoing study of Niagara’s maritime history,” said Ian Hamilton, President and CEO of HOPA Ports. “As researchers dig back in time to unearth the early days of shipbuilding and marine trade in the Niagara region, it’s a reminder of our vast maritime heritage. To this day, our seafaring roots are reflected in the character and economy of our region.”

Monk says HOPA Ports’ investment recognizes the region’s maritime archaeological heritage, which laid the foundations for the modern marine sector, while acknowledging the importance of the past and present Niagara communities that have supported the Welland Canals.

She will use the funds to continue archaeological study of the shipyard complex, including the 1845 Shickluna drydock. Her team will also 3D model a series of historic canal locks to explore strategies for heritage management. The project will coincide with the 200th anniversary of the start of construction of the First Welland Canal.

“We are grateful to HOPA for supporting this ongoing research program focused on the historic Welland Canals and enabling further archaeological investigation of this nationally significant 19th-century shipbuilding facility,” said Monk.

Brock and HOPA Ports signed a memorandum of understanding in 2021 to strengthen the Niagara economy through initiatives such as experiential learning opportunities, co-op placements and more.

“We’re extremely pleased that HOPA Ports has chosen to support Brock’s maritime research,” said Lesley Rigg, Brock’s President and Vice-Chancellor. “As an institution founded by and for the community, we strongly value the role we play in preserving the region’s history and supporting its future economic prosperity through academic scholarship.”

Offering port and marine assets on the Great Lakes, HOPA Ports develops multimodal spaces to support Ontario’s industries, facilitate trade and build prosperous working waterfronts.

To commemorate the bicentennial of construction beginning on the First Welland Canal, the Centre for Canadian Studies has invited Monk to speak about the role of past and future archaeological and heritage work in reimagining the historic Welland Canals. The guest lecture will take place at Brock on Thursday, Oct. 24, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Additional details for the free event can be found on ExperienceBU.