Shipwreck Report: Almira

Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: Almira
• Official Number: Not documented
• Type: Wooden Barge
• Tonnage: 106 tonnage (Old Style)
• Length: 85 feet (26 meters)
• Beam: 20 feet (6.1 meters)
• Depth: 6 feet (1.8 meters)
• Construction: Wooden Hull, two masts
• Year Built: 1849
• Builder: Initially recorded as built in Kingston, Ontario; some records suggest L. Shickluna, St. Catharines, in 1847
• Owners:
  • William Gorrie (Toronto, Ontario)
  • William Pigeon (Toronto, Ontario)
• Home Ports: Toronto, Ontario; Amherst Island, Ontario; Milford, Canada West (now Ontario)
• Location of Wreck: East Pier, Rochester Harbor, Lake Ontario, USA
• Date of Wreck: August 8, 1866

Vessel Type Description

The Almira was a wooden Barge designed for transporting bulk goods such as stave bolts across the Great Lakes. Measuring 85 feet in length with a beam of 20 feet and a depth of 6 feet, the vessel was practical and robust for mid-19th-century maritime trade. Built with two masts, the Almira was an example of the durable, utilitarian design of its time, catering to the growing economic demands of Great Lakes commerce.

History

The Almira had a storied career, with ownership changes reflecting its integral role in trade. Initially launched in Kingston, Ontario, in 1849 (or 1847, per some records), it was Rebuilt in 1851 on Amherst Island by William Gorrie of Toronto. By 1857, William Pigeon of Toronto had taken ownership. The Barge served the bustling trade routes of the Great Lakes, moving goods between Canadian and American ports, including Toronto, Amherst Island, and Milford.

Final Voyage and Heroic Rescue

On August 8, 1866, a fierce northeast storm swept over Lake Ontario as the Almira carried stave bolts bound for Milford, Canada West. Battling the severe weather, the vessel struck the submerged East Pier at the mouth of Rochester Harbor. The collision breached the Hull, flooding the Barge rapidly.

As the Almira sank, the crew climbed into the rigging, desperately clinging to life in the storm’s chaos. Their plight caught the attention of Captain J.H. Ledyard of the Steamer Flour City. Displaying remarkable courage, Captain Ledyard organized a rescue mission, deploying a Government lifeboat into the tumultuous waters.

With a team of volunteers, the rescue party reached the wreck and successfully saved the stranded crew members from the rigging. This daring operation ensured the survival of all aboard the Almira, marking a heroic moment in Great Lakes maritime history.

Final Disposition

The Almira was declared a Total Loss following the collision. Laden with stave bolts, the Barge sank in Rochester Harbor and was considered beyond salvage. The incident underscores the dangers of submerged structures, stormy conditions, and the challenges of navigating busy harbor approaches.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the wreck of the Almira. The event serves as a historical cautionary tale about submerged hazards and severe weather on Lake Ontario.

Located By & Date

The exact location of the Almira’s wreck has not been formally documented or identified through modern underwater surveys. The site remains undetermined.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The condition of the Almira is unknown. If remnants exist, they are likely in an advanced state of deterioration due to the harbor environment and over 150 years of exposure.

Resources & Links

For further information about the Almira and its final voyage, consult the following references:

• Board of Lake Underwriters Marine Directory
• Rochester Union & Advertiser, August 9, 1866
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Great Lakes Ships Database (C. Patrick Labadie Collection)
• Record of Canadian Shipping by Edward William Wallace

Conclusion

The Almira’s tragic loss near Rochester Harbor in 1866 highlights the perils of Great Lakes navigation in the mid-19th century. Despite its destruction, the heroic rescue led by Captain J.H. Ledyard remains a defining moment, showcasing the bravery and solidarity of those who sailed these waters. The vessel’s story is a testament to the resilience of the maritime community and its role in shaping the history of commerce on the Great Lakes.

Tags#AlmiraShipwreck | #LakeOntarioShipwrecks | #GreatLakesMaritimeHistory | #19thCenturyShipping | #RochesterHarbor | #HeroicRescue | #WoodenBarge