LE BLANC HENRI

Type: Frigate (French Navy)

Lengths: Unknown

Depths: Likely shallow due to grounding

Location: Off Wolfe Island, Lake Ontario

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Name: Le Blanc Henri

• Construction: Wooden frigate of the French Navy

• Date Built: Unknown

HISTORY

• Purpose: The frigate was part of the French Navy, tasked with transporting a valuable cargo of silver and gold.

• Cargo Value: Estimated at $100,000, a significant sum at the time, highlighting the ship’s importance.

FINAL DISPOSITION

• Date of Incident: June 17, 1764

• Incident: The frigate ran aground on a spit off Wolfe Island, Lake Ontario.

• Outcome:

• The ship was completely wrecked.

• Its loss marked a major financial and operational setback for the French Navy during this period.

NOTES

The loss of the Le Blanc Henri underscores the hazards of navigating Lake Ontario’s waters in the 18th century. The exact location of the wreck remains a mystery, making it a potentially valuable site for archaeological exploration. The story of its precious cargo adds intrigue to its historical significance.

REFERENCES & LINKS

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• Great Lakes Historical Shipwreck Archives

• Further research into French Navy records may yield additional details about this frigate.

This structured format ensures that the incident is documented with clarity, retaining its historical and archaeological interest.