Identification & Site Information

•Name: Geraldine Battle

•Other Names: Puritan (1893), Sandy Hook (150630), Sandy Hook (126094)

•Type: Wooden Propeller Passenger Steamer (later converted to Bulk Barge)

•Built: 1893 by R. Mills & Company, Buffalo, New York

•Dimensions:

•Length: 136 feet (41.5 meters)

•Beam: 32 feet (9.75 meters)

•Depth: 10 feet (3.05 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 409 tons

•Net Tonnage: 345 tons

•Engine: Two 600-horsepower steeple compound engines by Sutton Brothers

•Boilers: Two 7’6” x 12’6” firebox boilers

•Owner: Canadian Sand & Gravel Co., Thorold, Ontario

•Final Registry Number: Canadian Vessel No. 126094

Vessel Type Description:

The Geraldine Battle was originally launched as a wooden propeller passenger Steamer, reflecting the era’s need for vessels that could efficiently transport passengers and cargo across the Great Lakes. Over its lifetime, it underwent several conversions:

•Transitioned into a sand boat in 1902 for utilitarian purposes.

•Converted again in 1906 into a bulk Barge, focusing on gravel transportation for the construction and infrastructure demands of Ontario.

Its robust construction and powerful machinery made it adaptable to various roles, showcasing the ingenuity of shipbuilders and operators during this period.

History:

1.Passenger Steamer Phase (1893–1902):

•Launched as the Puritan in Buffalo, New York, the vessel initially served as a passenger Steamer, providing reliable service across the Great Lakes.

2.Sand Boat Conversion (1902–1906):

•Renamed Sandy Hook, it transitioned into a sand boat.

•Suffered two fires during this phase:

•1901: Fire broke out while moored in Buffalo.

•1905: A second fire occurred during winter quarters on the Erie Canal.

3.Bulk Barge Conversion (1906–1916):

•Owned by James Battle by 1906, the vessel was repurposed into a Barge. Its engine was removed and installed in the J. Kelderhouse, another vessel.

•Renamed Geraldine Battle in 1908, under the Canadian Sand & Gravel Co.

•Played a critical role in transporting gravel, essential for Ontario’s growing infrastructure.

4.Final Incident:

•On October 21, 1916, while unloading gravel in Thorold, Ontario, the vessel caught fire and was completely destroyed.

•The cause of the fire remains unknown, though no loss of life was reported.

Final Disposition:

The Geraldine Battle was entirely consumed by fire, leaving no physical remnants. Its destruction marked the end of a 23-year history characterized by adaptation and resilience.

NOTMARs & Advisories:

There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to this wreck, as the vessel was completely destroyed and poses no hazard to navigation.

Located By & Date:

•Destroyed: October 21, 1916, while unloading gravel in Thorold, Ontario.

Current Condition & Accessibility:

•Condition: No remains exist; the vessel was entirely destroyed by fire.

•Accessibility: No site to explore due to the vessel’s complete loss.

Resources & Links:

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes

•David Swayze Shipwreck File

•Great Lakes Ships Database

Conclusion:

The Geraldine Battle serves as a prime example of the versatility and challenges faced by vessels on the Great Lakes. Over its 23 years, it transitioned from a passenger Steamer to a sand boat, and finally to a bulk Barge, fulfilling evolving industrial and transportation needs. Despite enduring multiple fires and significant modifications, the vessel remained in service until its destruction in 1916. Its story highlights the ingenuity and resilience of Great Lakes shipping during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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