• Vessel Name: AMERICAN
• Vessel Type: Wooden Schooner
• Year Built: 1870
• Builder: Asa Wilcox, Three Mile Bay, New York
• Dimensions: 137 feet (42 meters) length, 26 feet (8 meters) beam, 10 feet (3 meters) depth
• Gross Tonnage: 283 tons
• Net Tonnage: 269 tons
• Final Location: Near Stony Point, Lake Ontario
• Coordinates: 43.83493, -76.43574

Vessel Type Description

The AMERICAN was a typical wooden Schooner of the 19th century, designed for bulk cargo transport on the Great Lakes. Built by Asa Wilcox in Three Mile Bay, New York, in 1870, this type of vessel was crucial in supporting the industrial demands of the era, frequently carrying coal, timber, and other essential commodities. Schooners like the AMERICAN were known for their durability and sailing capability, able to navigate the challenging conditions of the Great Lakes with large sails and a robust wooden Hull.

History

Following its construction, the AMERICAN initially served under the ownership of A. Wilcox of Three Mile Bay. The Schooner transported goods across Lake Ontario, providing a reliable means of moving bulk cargo. Ownership changed several times throughout its career: by 1879, it was operated by Becker & Putnam of Clayton, New York, and by 1894, T. Donavan of Oswego, New York, had taken over ownership.

The AMERICAN primarily hauled coal, a critical fuel source during that period, reflecting its role in the energy supply chain of the industrial economy. At an unspecified time, while en route to Prescott, Ontario, under tow by the Tug PROTOR, the Schooner met its unfortunate end near Stony Point. The precise details of the sinking remain undocumented, but it resulted in the vessel’s loss.

Final Disposition

On October 1, 1894, while transporting a cargo of coal from Oswego, the AMERICAN Foundered between Oswego and Stony Point. The cause of the sinking is unknown; however, all crew members escaped safely. Today, the remains of the Schooner rest at the coordinates 43.83493, -76.43574, near Stony Point in Lake Ontario.

Significance of the Site

The wreck of the AMERICAN represents the historical importance of schooners in regional commerce on the Great Lakes, symbolizing the peak and decline of sailing cargo vessels as steam power began to dominate. The final cargo of coal reinforces the Schooner’s role in supporting the industrial growth of the time. The site near Stony Point is valuable for historical studies, providing insights into the construction and operation of late 19th-century schooners.

Future Exploration and Preservation

The wreck of the AMERICAN is a significant underwater archaeological site with potential for exploration to learn more about the ship’s construction, cargo, and the circumstances surrounding its loss. Preservation efforts are essential to protect the site from disturbances, ensuring it remains a resource for historical education and research.

Resources & Links

For further research and historical context on the AMERICAN and similar vessels, consult the following resources:

• Great Lakes Ships – C. Patrick Labadie Collection
• Donald V. Baut – C. Patrick Labadie Collection: Additional detailed records and stories about the AMERICAN.
• Board of Lake Underwriters Marine Directory: Information on ship registrations and historical ownership changes.
• Inland Lloyds Marine Directory: A valuable directory for tracing vessel histories on the Great Lakes.
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Newspaper clippings and records documenting Great Lakes vessels.
• Steamship Era in the Muskokas by Richard Tatley: Offers contextual maritime history from the period.
• David Swayze Shipwreck File: A comprehensive database of shipwrecks, including the AMERICAN.
• www.sonarguy.com – located and modelled the American

3D Model by www.sonarguy.com

The American by Capt. Tim Caza on Sketchfab

Conclusion

The AMERICAN’s history encapsulates the vital role of schooners in the Great Lakes’ economic development, underscoring the importance of coal transportation and bulk goods movement in the region’s industrial expansion. Now a submerged monument at Stony Point, the AMERICAN remains a testament to the robust yet vulnerable nature of wooden schooners that braved the waters of Lake Ontario in the 19th century.

Keywords: American Schooner, Lake Ontario shipwreck, Stony Point wreck, Great Lakes maritime history, 19th-century schooners