In the bustling port city of Oswego, New York, during the mid-19th century, few names were as influential in maritime commerce and regional development as Fitzhugh and Littlejohn. This dynamic partnership, formed between Henry Fitzhugh and DeWitt Clinton Littlejohn, left an indelible mark on both the shipping industry of the Great Lakes and the economic growth of Oswego. Their ventures into shipping and transportation not only supported the burgeoning trade networks of the time but also cemented their legacies as key figures in the history of the region.
The Founders: Henry Fitzhugh and DeWitt Clinton Littlejohn
Henry Fitzhugh was a prominent businessman in Oswego, deeply involved in the local economy through his ventures in shipping and agriculture. His expertise and entrepreneurial spirit were crucial in the establishment and success of the Fitzhugh and Littlejohn partnership.
DeWitt Clinton Littlejohn (1818–1892) was not only a businessman but also a notable political figure. Serving multiple terms as the Mayor of Oswego and as a member of the New York State Assembly, Littlejohn held the position of Speaker during several sessions, where he influenced key legislative developments. His leadership extended to national politics as well; during the American Civil War, he served as a Colonel of the 110th New York Volunteer Infantry and later represented New York in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1863 to 1865. Beyond politics, Littlejohn was instrumental in organizing the New York and Oswego Midland Railroad, which later became the New York, Ontario & Western Railroad, further enhancing the transportation infrastructure critical to regional commerce.
Maritime Ventures and Influence on Great Lakes Shipping
The firm Fitzhugh and Littlejohn became a prominent player in Great Lakes shipping during the 1850s and 1860s. Their fleet of vessels facilitated the movement of goods across the lakes, connecting Oswego to major ports such as Chicago, Milwaukee, and Detroit. These ships were integral to transporting lumber, grain, and other bulk commodities essential to the economic development of both New York State and the broader Great Lakes region.
- Arabian, a 350-ton wooden bark built in 1853 in Niagara. Initially constructed as a brig, the ARABIAN exemplified the type of sturdy, versatile vessels favored for Great Lakes commerce. Despite a promising start, the ship faced numerous challenges, including being severely damaged in a citywide fire in Oswego shortly after her launch. After being repaired, the ARABIAN resumed service until her final loss in 1856 off Point Betsie, Lake Michigan. The ship foundered during a gale after a tow cable from the steamer OGONTZ parted, leaving the vessel adrift. Although the ARABIAN sank, her crew survived, rescued by the schooner FORTUNE.
- Burlington, built in 1857 by D. O’Conner in Buffalo, New York, had a similarly storied career. Originally a schooner, the BURLINGTON was later rebuilt as a steam barge in 1873, reflecting the transition from sail to steam power on the lakes. After changing hands multiple times, the BURLINGTON met her end off Sand Beach in Lake Huron in 1893.
Legacy and Contribution to Oswego’s Development
The influence of Fitzhugh and Littlejohn extended beyond shipping. Their business ventures contributed significantly to Oswego’s transformation into a major port and commercial hub on Lake Ontario. The firm’s success in maritime trade helped stimulate local industries, from shipbuilding to grain storage, while fostering economic growth that benefited the entire region.
DeWitt Clinton Littlejohn’s role in the development of the New York and Oswego Midland Railroad further amplified the firm’s impact. By linking Oswego to broader rail networks, the railroad facilitated even more efficient movement of goods from the interior to the Great Lakes, positioning the city as a critical junction in North American trade routes.
Despite the eventual decline of wooden ships and the rise of steel-hulled vessels in the late 19th century, the legacy of Fitzhugh and Littlejohn endures in the historical record of Oswego and the Great Lakes maritime industry. Their ships, leadership, and innovations helped shape the region’s economic landscape during a pivotal period of growth and industrialization.
Conclusion
The partnership of Fitzhugh and Littlejohn represents a quintessential example of the entrepreneurial spirit that defined the Great Lakes region in the 19th century. Their contributions to Oswego’s economic expansion and their influence on maritime trade left a lasting legacy. Through their fleet of vessels, including the ill-fated ARABIAN and BURLINGTON, and their efforts to enhance transportation infrastructure, Henry Fitzhugh and DeWitt Clinton Littlejohn helped transform Oswego into a thriving port city and played a crucial role in the broader development of Great Lakes commerce.
Resources & Further Reading
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- Great Lakes Ships Database
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Wikitree – DeWitt Clinton Littlejohn
- University of Detroit Mercy Archives
If you’d like to learn more about other vessels owned by Fitzhugh and Littlejohn or delve deeper into the shipping history of Oswego, let me know!
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