Identification & Site Information

•Name: Fair American

•Type: Wooden Schooner

•Built: 1804 in Oswego, New York

•Dimensions:

•Length: 64 feet (19.5 metres)

•Tonnage: 83 tons

•Official Number/Other Names: None recorded

•Final Location: Off the mouth of Salmon River, Lake Ontario

•Date of Loss: October 1818

•Value at Time of Loss: $1,000

Vessel Type Description

The Fair American was a wooden Schooner, typical of early 19th-century shipbuilding in the Great Lakes region. With its modest size and tonnage, it was suitable for regional commercial shipping and versatile enough for military service when required. Schooners of this era were often used for transporting goods such as timber, grain, or supplies across Lake Ontario.

History

Construction and Early Years

Built in 1804 in Oswego, New York, the Fair American was among the early schooners navigating the Great Lakes. Schooners like the Fair American were essential for regional commerce, moving goods and passengers across Lake Ontario and beyond.

Service During the War of 1812

During the War of 1812, the Fair American was acquired by the United States government and outfitted with two guns, becoming part of Perry’s Fleet. Armed schooners like the Fair American played a critical role in patrolling the lakes and engaging enemy vessels. Following the war, around 1814, the vessel returned to civilian service.

Final Voyage and Loss

In October 1818, the Fair American was lost off the mouth of Salmon River in Lake Ontario. While specific details about the cause of the wreck, the cargo, and potential loss of life remain unknown, it is believed the Schooner succumbed to a storm. Such incidents were common, as the Great Lakes’ unpredictable weather posed significant risks to vessels of this era.

Final Disposition

The Fair American was declared a Total Loss after the wreck near Salmon River. No details of salvage or remnants have been recorded, and the vessel likely deteriorated over time in the lake’s waters.

Legacy and Historical Significance

The Fair American is notable for its dual role in both commerce and military operations. As part of Perry’s Fleet during the War of 1812, it contributed to the United States’ efforts to secure control of the Great Lakes. Its subsequent return to commercial service underscores the adaptability of vessels during this period. The Schooner’s loss near Salmon River reflects the inherent dangers of Great Lakes navigation during the early 19th century.

Resources & Links

•War of 1812 Naval Records: Documentation of vessels in Perry’s Fleet.

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Historical records and details on early Great Lakes shipping.

•Local Historical Archives: Resources on Oswego shipbuilding and Lake Ontario shipwrecks.

Conclusion

The Fair American serves as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted roles schooners played in early Great Lakes history. From its construction in Oswego to its wartime service and eventual loss, the Schooner exemplifies the challenges and transitions of maritime life in the early 19th century. Though no physical remnants are known to exist, its story remains a testament to the resilience and risks faced by those who sailed the Great Lakes.

Keywords

•#FairAmerican

•#WoodenSchooner

•#WarOf1812

•#PerrysFleet

•#LakeOntario

•#OswegoShipbuilding

•#GreatLakesMaritimeHistory

•#SalmonRiver

•#Early19thCenturyShipping

•#ShipwreckHistory