• Vessel Name: Ann Sisson (also known as Sisson, Ann) • Year of Build: 1855 or 1857 • Built at: Pontiac, Quebec • Builder: H. Jenkins or possibly A. P. McDonald from Chats Rapids, Quebec • Vessel Type: Steamship (originally lumber Tug, later modified for passengers) • Hull Materials: Wood • Number of Decks: 1 • Dimensions: • Length: 139 feet (42.4 meters) • Beam: 25 feet (7.6 meters) • Depth: 7 feet (2.1 meters) • Tonnage (Old Measurement): 279 tons • Final Location: Britannia, Ontario, Ottawa River • Coordinates: 45.36041450464546, -75.80976541906657

Vessel Type Description

The Ann Sisson was a wooden Steamship originally built as a lumber Tug in Pontiac, Quebec, reflecting the prominence of the lumber industry in the Ottawa Valley. Constructed between 1855 and 1857, the vessel was later adapted to transport passengers, showcasing its versatile role in regional transport. With a single Deck, a length of 139 feet, and a beam of 25 feet, the Ann Sisson was well-equipped to navigate the Ottawa River, contributing to both industrial transport and passenger service.

History

The Ann Sisson began its career as a dedicated lumber Tug, essential for moving timber along the Ottawa River, a key economic activity in mid-19th-century Canada. With modifications to add passenger accommodations, the vessel expanded its purpose, carrying people as well as goods along the river. By 1860, the Ann Sisson was owned by Brewster & Mulholland of Montreal, Quebec. Strengthened in 1861 to enhance durability, the vessel continued to operate effectively in various roles.

In 1863, the vessel was purchased by the Union Forwarding Company of Ottawa, Ontario, which utilized it extensively for both cargo and passenger transport. A highlight of its service was carrying Prince Albert during his visit to the Ottawa River, cementing the Ann Sisson’s status and historical importance.

Final Disposition

The active service of the Ann Sisson ended in 1871 when it was Abandoned and beached at Britannia, Ontario, along the Ottawa River. Left to deteriorate, the vessel became a fixture of the shoreline, succumbing to the effects of time and weather, and fading into the riverbank landscape.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are currently no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the wreck of the Ann Sisson.

Resources & Links

For further exploration of the history of the Ann Sisson, consider these resources:

• Ottawa Citizen: Articles covering the vessel’s history and ongoing interest in its final location.

• Mike’s Blog: In-depth series exploring the Ann Sisson’s history and the search for its remnants:

• Part 1 • Part 2 • Part 3

Conclusion

The Ann Sisson represents a key chapter in the history of the Ottawa River, embodying the transition from industrial to passenger service on Canadian inland waters. The vessel’s legacy endures in its connection to significant historical events, such as carrying Prince Albert, and its final resting place at Britannia, Ontario, serves as a reminder of the vital role that steamships played in shaping regional commerce and transport. Today, the Ann Sisson is remembered as part of the Ottawa River’s rich maritime heritage.

Keywords: Ann Sisson, Steamship, Pontiac Quebec, Britannia Ontario, Union Forwarding Company, Ottawa River, 19th-century maritime history, wooden shipwreck, Prince Albert