Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: Julia

• Type: Schooner

• Year Built: 1875

• Builder: Not specified in the available records

• Dimensions:

• Length: 89 feet (27.1 meters)

• Beam: 19.8 feet (6.0 meters)

• Depth: 7.9 feet (2.4 meters)

• Tonnage:

• Gross Tonnage: 115 tons

• Net Tonnage: 108 tons

• Cargo Capacity: Capable of transporting grain and lumber.

• Location: Quebec Head, Wolfe Island, St. Lawrence River

• Coordinates: N44° 13.59.2’, W76° 12.08.9’

• Depth: 10 feet (3 meters)

Vessel Type Description

The Julia was a wooden Schooner designed for the transportation of bulk goods, such as grain and lumber, across the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. Its clipper-style design provided speed and efficiency, making it well-suited for the grain trade during the 19th century. It featured a single Deck and was robustly constructed for the challenging conditions of the region.

History

Initial Registration and Ownership

The Julia was registered in Kingston, Ontario, in 1875 under Canada No. 72559. Initially owned by T. Hartnett, it later came under the ownership of Timothy Hartnett. The Schooner became well-known for its grain trade operations, carrying commodities such as barley from ports like Gananoque to Oswego, New York.

Notable Incidents

• October 25, 1883: While attempting to enter Oswego Harbor, the Julia struck the middle pier and sank in 45 feet of water, submerging a cargo of 7,500 bushels of barley. At the time, the vessel was valued at $4,500 and insured for $3,500, with the cargo insured at 70 cents per bushel. Mariners criticized the decision to navigate into the harbor at night, as it was widely considered safe only during daylight.

• November 23, 1884: Ran aground in Consecon, Lake Ontario, but was successfully refloated and returned to service.

• November 25, 1887: Sank again during a storm near Oswego, underscoring the challenges faced by schooners in unpredictable weather.

• February 25, 1895: Destroyed by fire on Wolfe Island, marking the end of its operational life.

Final Disposition

The Julia was severely damaged in multiple incidents throughout its service, culminating in its destruction by fire on Wolfe Island in 1895. While much of the wreck has been destroyed or scattered, the remains of the vessel lie in Little Sodus Bay at a shallow depth of 10 feet, making it accessible for exploration.

Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the wreck site near Quebec Head. Mariners navigating the area are advised to be cautious of shallow waters and debris.

Located By & Date

The exact date and individuals responsible for identifying the wreck near Quebec Head are not documented. The site is known among maritime historians and divers, though it has not been extensively explored.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The Julia’s wreck lies in shallow water (10 feet), making it accessible to divers and snorkelers. The vessel was significantly damaged by fire, and much of the remaining structure consists of scattered fragments of the Hull. Divers may still encounter remnants of the Schooner and its cargo.

Resources & Links

1. Great Lakes Ships Database: Repository of information on vessels like the Julia.

2. David Swayze Shipwreck File: Detailed historical records on Great Lakes shipwrecks.

3. Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Database covering the region’s rich maritime history.

4. Historical Newspaper Archives:

• Kingston Whig-Standard, October 25, 1883

• Port Huron Daily Times, October 26, 1883

5. Save Ontario Shipwrecks: Advocates for preservation and exploration of wrecks.

6. NOAA Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Insights into Lake Huron and other Great Lakes shipwrecks.

Analysis

The Julia’s story reflects the perilous conditions faced by schooners operating on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. Despite its strong design and reputation as a reliable vessel, the Julia succumbed to the unpredictable weather, navigation challenges, and human error. Its frequent mishaps, including the failed nighttime harbor entry at Oswego, highlight the risks inherent to maritime trade during the late 19th century. The wreck’s remains provide a glimpse into this era of Great Lakes commerce, serving as a poignant reminder of the bravery and determination of those who sailed these waters.

Keywords

#Julia #Schooner #WolfeIsland #StLawrenceRiver #GrainTransport #GreatLakesShipwreck #KingstonOntario #OswegoHarbor #19thCenturyMaritimeHistory #GreatLakesSchooners