Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: H.R. Preston
• Type: Canal Boat (Quarter Deck Boat)
• Builder: H.C. Le Roy, Oneida Lake, New York
• Year Built: October 1877
• Dimensions: Not documented
• Final Location: Approximately 1 mile offshore from Oswego, New York, Lake Ontario
• Depth: Exact depth unknown; likely shallow to moderate depth based on location and sinking circumstances
• Date of Loss: July 23, 1878
• Cargo: 240 to 250 tons of ashes
• Insurance: Boat insured for $1,000 for lake navigation and $2,000 for canal navigation Cargo insured for $600

Vessel Type Description

The H.R. Preston was a quarter Deck canal boat, designed for efficient transportation of bulk goods such as ashes, lumber, or grain along the canals and lakes. This type of vessel featured a covered bin to protect cargo from the elements, though its canvas covering proved vulnerable in the rough seas that contributed to the vessel’s sinking.

History

Purpose and Early Service

The H.R. Preston was built by H.C. Le Roy in Oneida Lake, New York, in 1877, reflecting the growing demand for versatile and durable canal boats to serve both the canal systems and the Great Lakes. The vessel was utilized for transporting goods between ports in the northeastern United States and Canada, making it an integral part of the region’s trade infrastructure.

The Final Voyage

On July 23, 1878, the H.R. Preston was part of a tow led by the Tug Alanson Sumner, en route to Canada to load ashes. Along with three other canal boats—Rising Star, Morning Star, and Evening Star—the Preston joined the tow near Picton. All four vessels faced challenging conditions as they navigated Lake Ontario.

Approximately 15 miles offshore from Oswego, the Preston broke free from its tow due to rough seas. The Tug Sumner managed to regain control of the vessel after an hour, but by the time the Preston was about a mile from shore, its canvas bin cover was torn away by the waves, causing the cargo hold to fill with water rapidly.

Recognizing the imminent danger, Captain Dobbie ordered the towing line to be cut, and the Preston sank bow-first. For several minutes, the Stern remained tilted out of the water before fully submerging.

Rescue Operations

The Preston’s two crew members, John Tully and John Watson, managed to construct a makeshift raft from tied boards and used a pike pole for buoyancy. The Tug Sumner sounded its whistle and raised its flag for assistance. Nearby vessels, including the Tug Morey (Captain Pappa) and the Tug William Avery (Captain Albert Thompson), responded to the distress signals. They were joined by Captain Blackburnand a Life Saving Service member in a small boat.

Thanks to the coordinated rescue efforts, both Tully and Watson were saved, despite the dangerous conditions.

Final Disposition

The H.R. Preston was a Total Loss, with its cargo of ashes and the vessel itself sinking off Oswego. Its cargo was consigned to James A. Bill of Lyme, Connecticut, and had been purchased by Charles O’Hara. While the ship and cargo were insured, the incident underscored the risks of transporting goods across Lake Ontario during adverse weather.

Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the wreck of the H.R. Preston. However, mariners navigating the waters near Oswego should remain cautious, as the area has a history of shipwrecks due to storms and rough seas.

Located By & Date

•Located by: The wreck of the H.R. Preston has not been definitively located or documented as an active dive site.

•Date of Discovery: Not applicable.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The exact condition of the H.R. Preston remains unknown. If the wreck persists, it is likely buried under sediment or fragmented due to over a century of exposure to underwater conditions in Lake Ontario.

Resources & Links

• Great Lakes Ships Database: Great Lakes Ships
• David Swayze Shipwreck File: David Swayze Shipwrecks
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Maritime History of the Great Lakes

Conclusion

The story of the H.R. Preston is a reminder of the inherent risks of navigating the Great Lakes, especially for vulnerable vessels like canal boats. Despite the loss of the vessel, the successful rescue of the crew highlights the bravery and effectiveness of 19th-century maritime rescue efforts. The sinking of the Preston contributes to the rich history of shipwrecks and maritime challenges in the Oswego area.

Keywords

H.R. Preston, canal boat, Oswego shipwreck, Great Lakes storm, maritime rescue, Alanson Sumner, Lake Ontario shipwrecks.