Shipwreck Report: Atlas (later Princess)

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

•Vessel Name: Atlas (renamed Princess in 1873)

•Year Built: 1872

•Builder: P. Girard

•Built at: Carillon, Quebec

•Type: Steamboat (Night Steamer / Market Boat)

•Hull Materials: Wood

•Number of Decks: 1

•Dimensions (Post-Rebuild):

•Length: 142 feet (43.3 meters)

•Beam: 22 feet (6.7 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 527 tons

•Engine: 32×96 steam engine by G. Brush, Montreal (salvaged from an earlier vessel, also named Atlas)

•Owner: Ottawa River Navigation Company (final ownership)

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The Atlas was a wooden Steamboat initially designed for nighttime passenger services along the Ottawa River. Its single-Deck structure supported both passenger and cargo operations. In 1899, the vessel underwent significant renovations to modernize its propulsion system and increase capacity. The salvaged 32×96 steam engine reflected the cost-effective practice of reusing valuable components.

HISTORY

Launch and Early Years

The Atlas was launched on May 4, 1872, marking the beginning of its service on the Ottawa River. Initially a night Steamer, it operated between Lachine and Carillon, facilitating overnight transportation for passengers and goods. This service was crucial for commerce and connectivity during a time when river travel was the backbone of regional trade.

Transition to Market Boat

By 1880, the Atlas transitioned into a market boat, adapting to serve the agricultural economy of the Ottawa River region. It carried goods, produce, and livestock between Point Fortune and Lachine, becoming an essential link for farmers and traders.

The vessel also maintained its passenger capacity, accommodating up to 443 individuals by 1886, demonstrating its versatility and importance in supporting local commerce and transportation needs.

Later Years and Rebuild

The Atlas underwent a significant Rebuild in 1899, ensuring it could meet the evolving demands of regional transportation. This included updating its Hull and engine, extending its service life by over a decade. However, the vessel was retired from active service in 1913.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The Atlas met its end in 1914 when a fire damaged it beyond repair. Left Abandoned in a bay near the modern-day Carillon dam, the vessel succumbed to natural deterioration over time. The tragedy marked the conclusion of its four-decade-long service as both a passenger and market Steamboat.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

•No specific Notices to Mariners are related to the Atlas.

•Divers and researchers should exercise caution when exploring areas near the Carillon dam, where the remains may exist.

RESOURCES & LINKS

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes

Visit Site

•Quebec Historical Archives

Visit Site

CONCLUSION

The Atlas, later renamed Princess, exemplifies the adaptability of 19th-century steamboats, evolving from a night Steamer to a market boat over its operational life. Its role in facilitating commerce and transportation highlights the importance of such vessels in the Ottawa River region’s development. The vessel’s fiery demise in 1914 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and service that remains an integral part of Canada’s maritime heritage.

KEYWORDS

Atlas, Princess, Steamboat, Carillon Quebec, Ottawa River Navigation Company, Market Boat, Night Steamer, Wooden Shipwreck, P. Girard, Carillon dam, 19th-century maritime history, G. Brush Engine.