Shotline Diving - The Great Lakes GotoPhilip Becker U74214

Identification & Site Information

Vessel Name: Philip Becker
Type: Tugboat (Screw Propeller Vessel)
Built: 1876, Buffalo, New York
Builder: J. LeRock
Dimensions:
Length: 51 feet (15.5 meters)
Beam (Width): 13.3 feet (4 meters)
Depth: 6.4 feet (2 meters)
Gross Tonnage: 28
Net Tonnage: 19
Engine: 14×16 engine by J. B. Sutton, Buffalo, New York
Registration Number: 74214
Mills Number: 043090
Original Owner: Wm. McRae, Montreal, Quebec
Later Owner: Hickler Bros., Buffalo, New York
Final Resting Place: Lake Ontario, approximately 10 miles off Oswego, New York

Vessel Type Description

The Philip Becker was a small, single-Deck wooden Tugboat designed for towing purposes. Equipped with a screw propeller and a robust 14×16 engine, the Tug played a vital role in assisting larger vessels with navigation and cargo movement across the Great Lakes. Its compact design and wooden Hull made it well-suited for towing in the often turbulent waters of the region.

History

The Philip Becker was constructed in 1876 by J. LeRock in Buffalo, New York. Initially owned by Wm. McRae of Montreal, Quebec, the vessel changed ownership in 1879, becoming part of the Hickler Bros. fleet in Buffalo, New York. Throughout its operational life, the Philip Becker served as a hardworking Tugboat, towing barges and assisting with cargo movement along the Great Lakes.

On November 17, 1879, the Philip Becker met its tragic end during a severe blizzard and gale on Lake Ontario. The vessel Foundered approximately 10 miles off Oswego, New York. Despite transferring the crew to the Barge Gordon for safety, both the Tug and the Barge succumbed to the storm, with the loss of all hands aboard. In total, three lives were lost in the disaster.

Final Disposition

The Philip Becker lies submerged in Lake Ontario near Oswego, New York. No modern discovery of the wreck has been recorded, and the precise location remains unknown. The severe weather during its sinking likely contributed to the vessel’s complete loss, making recovery unlikely.

The Philip Becker remains a poignant symbol of the risks faced by sailors and the harsh conditions on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century.

Located By & Date

The wreck of the Philip Becker has not been located or officially identified. The incident is well-documented in historical records, but no modern sonar surveys or dives have confirmed the vessel’s resting place.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) regarding the wreck of the Philip Becker. However, mariners navigating near Oswego, New York, should remain cautious of the historical shipwreck density in the area.

Resources & Links

Marine Museum of the Great Lakes: Historical archives on Great Lakes vessels.
Mills Listing: Detailed specifications and ownership records of the Philip Becker.
Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive information on Great Lakes shipwrecks and vessels.
David Swayze Shipwreck File: Archival data on lost vessels, including the Philip Becker.
Great Lakes Ships: Historical database of Great Lakes vessels.
Sonar Guy Photo Gallery: Visual documentation of wrecks in Lake Ontario.

Keywords #Philip Becker #Tugboat shipwreck #Lake Ontario shipwreck #Great Lakes maritime history #Hickler Bros. #Oswego shipwreck #Foundered vessel

Analysis

The loss of the Philip Becker reflects the perilous nature of maritime operations on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. Despite its relatively small size, the Tugboat played a crucial role in facilitating trade and transportation. Its demise during the 1879 storm highlights the harsh conditions and the bravery of the crews who faced them daily. The Philip Becker adds to the rich tapestry of Great Lakes maritime history, serving as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who navigated its waters.