Identification & Site Information:

• Name: Alert (formerly Chippewa)

• Registration Number(s): Not specified

• Builder: William Ross & Sons, Port Robinson, Welland Canal

• Date Built: 1886

• Measurements:

• Length: 58.4 ft (17.8 m)

• Tonnage: 47 gross tons, 32 net tons

• Machinery: 28 rated horsepower, reused from another vessel

• Valuation:

• 1890: $6,000

• 1917-1918: $7,500

• 1919: $6,562.50

• 1920: $5,906.25

• Owner(s):

• Original: Welland Canal Tug Co.

• Later: Montreal Transportation Co.

• Final: E.O. Leahey (Niagara Falls, Ontario)

• Final Disposition: Sunk in 1926, removed from registry in 1937

Vessel Type:

Wooden Canal Tug

Description:

The Alert began its service as the Chippewa in 1886. Built for operations within the Welland Canal and Lake Erie, it was a robust wooden canal Tug known for its versatility and durability. Its machinery, adapted from an older vessel, powered the Tug through numerous years of service.

History:

The vessel was constructed by William Ross & Sons and initially owned by the Welland Canal Tug Co., a firm associated with F.W. Carter’s family. By 1895, it had been renamed Alert, continuing its critical role in assisting canal navigation and lake transportation.

The Montreal Transportation Co. acquired the Alert and resold it in 1921 as part of a package deal with two other tugs. It was purchased by the Harrigan Tug Line and subsequently by E.O. Leahey, marking its transition to private ownership.

The Tug’s history reflects fluctuating valuations based on market conditions and its utility. Despite these fluctuations, it remained a vital asset for regional transportation.

Final Disposition:

In 1926, the Alert sank near Chippewa, Ontario, in the Niagara River. The reasons behind the sinking remain unclear, but the incident marked the end of its operational life. The vessel was formally removed from the shipping registry on December 31, 1937.

Located By & Date Found:

Nil returns found in documents for recovery or archaeological interest.

NOTMARs & Advisories:

No navigational hazards or advisories recorded for the site of the sinking.

Resources & Links:

1. Maritime History of the Great Lakes

2. Save Ontario Shipwrecks

Conclusion:

The Alert (formerly Chippewa) was emblematic of the working vessels that powered Canada’s inland waterways. Its operational history on the Welland Canal and Lake Erie underscores its importance to regional trade and transportation.

Keywords:

• Tugboat

• Welland Canal

• Niagara River

• Maritime History

Glossary:

• Tonnage: A measurement of the cargo-carrying capacity of a ship.

• Welland Canal: A key shipping route connecting Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.