Identification & Site Information

Vessel Type Description

The CHIEF JUSTICE ROBINSON was a two-masted wooden Schooner built with a carvel Hull, a standing bowsprit, and a square Stern. Schooners like the CHIEF JUSTICE ROBINSON were commonly used in the Great Lakes for transporting goods and commodities, thanks to their maneuverability and capacity. The vessel was rigged traditionally for its time, designed to handle the unpredictable weather of the Great Lakes.

History

Built in 1841 by Louis Shickluna in St. Catharines, Ontario, the CHIEF JUSTICE ROBINSON was a sturdy vessel operating primarily in the Great Lakes. The Schooner was owned by Land & Routh of Hamilton, Ontario, and served a critical role in regional trade.

On December 1, 1848, while on a voyage from Hamilton to Kingston, the CHIEF JUSTICE ROBINSON encountered a severe gale near Presque Isle, Lake Ontario. The storm was fierce, and despite efforts to seek shelter, the Schooner was wrecked. The vessel’s master at the time was Captain A. McBride.

The incident resulted in the Total Loss of the vessel, with damages estimated at $3,500. Fortunately, there was no loss of life. The cargo, consisting of 1250 barrels of flour, was salvaged but sustained significant damage.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the CHIEF JUSTICE ROBINSON serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by sailors navigating the Great Lakes during the 19th century. The severe storms and unpredictable waters posed constant threats to vessels like the CHIEF JUSTICE ROBINSON.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The exact location of the wreck remains near Presque Isle, Lake Ontario. The current condition of the wreck is unknown, and it has not been extensively documented or explored in recent years.

Resources & Links

• Great Lakes Ships
• David Swayze Shipwreck File
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Gerald C Metzer Great Lakes Vessel Dbase

CHIEF JUSTICE ROBINSON, Schooner, Great Lakes shipwrecks, Lake Ontario, Presque Isle, 1848 gale, Louis Shickluna, Hamilton Ontario, maritime history.