James Humble

James Humble was a prominent shipbuilder based in Tonawanda, New York, known for constructing vessels primarily used in the Great Lakes trade during the mid-to-late 19th century. His work exemplified the wooden schooner designs that were crucial to the economy and transportation on the lakes, with ships crafted to endure the region’s variable weather and demanding cargo routes. Humble’s name is particularly associated with the Daniel G. Fort, built in 1869, which met its end in a wreck near Oswego, New York, in 1894.

Humble’s vessels were known for their robust construction, often employing high-quality timber such as second-growth white oak, a material prized for its durability. Ships built by Humble frequently served in the bustling lumber and iron transport trades, and some met unfortunate ends typical of Great Lakes vessels, often due to collisions, grounding, or fierce gales. Humble’s schooners, while sturdy and well-regarded, still faced the perils common to the era’s wooden ships.

Notable Vessels Built by J. Humble

• Daniel G. Fort (1869): As previously mentioned, this schooner had a storied history on the Great Lakes before wrecking in 1894 near Oswego, NY.

• St. Joseph (date unknown): Another of Humble’s ships, although less documented, served in cargo transport and was representative of the style and function typical of Humble’s shipyard.

James Humble’s work contributed significantly to the era’s maritime industry on the Great Lakes. Although the precise number of vessels built by him is less documented in surviving records, his contributions underscore the broader story of Great Lakes commerce and the risks navigators faced on these waters.

For more in-depth historical records and information on other vessels built by Humble, the following resources may be helpful:

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: This resource hosts detailed databases on Great Lakes vessels and shipbuilders and can offer more insights into J. Humble’s contributions. Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• Dossin Great Lakes Museum: The museum’s collections include documents on Great Lakes shipbuilders and could hold more about J. Humble’s shipbuilding activities and vessels. Dossin Great Lakes Museum

• Great Lakes Vessel Database (Bowling Green State University): Provides data on historical ship records and builders active on the Great Lakes, a valuable source for further details on Humble’s other ships. Great Lakes Vessels Database