George Goble (1819–1906)

George Goble (1819–1906) was a prominent shipbuilder in Oswego, New York, significantly contributing to the maritime industry on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. An immigrant from Kinsale, Ireland, Goble established himself in Oswego, where he constructed numerous vessels that played vital roles in regional commerce and transportation.

Shipbuilding Contributions:

Between 1856 and 1906, Goble built a variety of vessels, including schooners, tugboats, and steam yachts. Notable ships constructed by Goble include:

• George Goble (1862): A schooner also known as M.C. Cameron, built in Oswego. 
• William I. Preston (1861): A schooner measuring 142 feet in length, which served in the Great Lakes trade. 
• Knight Templar (1865): A schooner that contributed to the maritime activities of the era.
• West Side was a two-masted wooden schooner, a vessel type extensively used throughout the Great Lakes for transporting bulk commodities such as lumber, pulpwood, coal, and grain. Schooners like the West Side were known for their fore-and-aft rigging, which allowed for superior maneuverability in the often unpredictable winds of the Great Lakes. The vessel’s design made her well-suited for long-distance trade routes, particularly those involving the timber trade between Canada and the United States.

Personal Life:

George Goble was married to Sarah Collins, and together they had several children, including George W. Goble (1844–1912), Nicholas Collins Goble (1847–1909), and Joseph Heron Goble (1849–1934). 

Legacy:

Goble’s shipyard in Oswego was instrumental in the development of maritime commerce on the Great Lakes. His vessels were known for their craftsmanship and durability, serving various purposes from cargo transport to passenger services. The ships he built were integral to the economic growth of the region, facilitating trade and transportation across the Great Lakes.

In recognition of his contributions, the H. Lee White Marine Museum and the Oswego Maritime Foundation have celebrated Goble’s legacy, highlighting his impact on the local maritime history. 

George Goble’s work remains a testament to the rich shipbuilding heritage of Oswego, reflecting the city’s importance as a maritime hub in the 19th century.