Shipwreck Report: Propeller Clayton

Identification & Site Information

• Name: Clayton
• Type: Propeller-driven Steamer
• Construction: Wooden Hull
• Location of Incident: Near Clayton, New York
• Date of Incident: Mid-19th century (exact date unspecified)
• Condition: Total Loss due to fire
• Estimated Loss: $7,000
• Insurance Coverage: $1,200
• Accessibility: Wreckage likely destroyed; site presumed inaccessible

Vessel Type Description

The Clayton was a wooden-hulled, propeller-driven Steamer, representative of mid-19th-century advancements in maritime technology. Propeller steamers offered improved maneuverability and efficiency over traditional Paddlewheel designs, making them popular for both passenger and freight services on the Great Lakes.

History

The propeller-driven Steamer Clayton met a tragic end near Clayton, New York, when a fire broke out onboard. The exact cause of the fire is not detailed in available records, but such incidents were not uncommon due to the use of open flames and the flammable materials prevalent in ship construction at the time. The fire resulted in the Total Loss of the vessel, valued at $7,000, with insurance covering only $1,200. This incident underscores the vulnerabilities of wooden steamers to onboard fires and the financial risks faced by shipowners.

Final Disposition

The Clayton was completely destroyed by the fire, leaving no substantial wreckage. The exact location near Clayton, New York, remains unspecified, and any remnants have likely deteriorated or been reclaimed by the environment over time.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the Clayton. The absence of significant wreckage suggests the site does not pose any modern navigational hazards.

Located By & Date

The incident was reported in contemporary accounts shortly after the event. However, no formal documentation or precise location of the wreck site has been established.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Given the total destruction by fire and the passage of time, it is unlikely that any identifiable remains of the Clayton exist today. The site is presumed inaccessible and holds little for maritime archaeologists or divers.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Great Lakes Ships Database

Keywords

Propeller Steamer Clayton, Clayton New York, 19th-century shipwreck, Great Lakes maritime history, vessel fire, wooden Steamer, maritime insurance, shipbuilding in Clayton.

Location Overview: Clayton, New York

Geographical Context

Clayton is a town located in Jefferson County, New York, situated on the southern bank of the St. Lawrence River, near the Thousand Islands region. Its strategic position along this major waterway has historically made it a hub for maritime activities, including shipbuilding, transportation, and trade.

Maritime Significance

In the 19th century, Clayton emerged as a prominent shipbuilding center. Firms like Smith & Merick were instrumental in constructing numerous vessels, including steamers for the Ontario and St. Lawrence Steamboat Company’s lines. The town’s proximity to the St. Lawrence River facilitated the launch and operation of these vessels, contributing significantly to the region’s maritime economy.

Historical Incidents