Identification & Site Information:

•Name: London

•Type: Fore-and-aft Schooner (originally a propeller vessel before Conversion)

•Year Built: Rebuilt in 1848, Cobourg, Ontario (original build date unknown)

•Tonnage: 63 tons

•Ownership: Sutherland & Co., Port Hope, Ontario

•Classification: Class AE (second class)

•Lost: October 27, 1858, near Big Sodus, Lake Ontario

Vessel Type Description:

The London was a fore-and-aft Schooner, a versatile and widely used cargo vessel in the mid-19th century. Initially built as a propeller-driven vessel, the London was Rebuilt and reclassified as a Schooner in 1848 at Cobourg. With a tonnage of 63, the vessel was suited for the transport of bulk cargo, especially lumber, which was a key trade good in the region.

History:

The London was built in Cobourg, Ontario, in 1843 and primarily served the bustling lumber trade on Lake Ontario. Owned by Sutherland & Co. of Port Hope, the vessel was frequently employed in transporting timber between Ontario ports and nearby American harbours.

On October 27, 1858, while en route to Big Sodus, the London encountered harsh weather conditions. Under the command of Captain Griggs, the Schooner ran aground on the pier at Big Sodus. Salvage efforts by the wrecking Tug A.S. PAGE were unsuccessful, and the vessel was declared a Total Loss. However, the lumber cargo was salvaged successfully, mitigating financial losses.

Final Disposition:

The wreck of the London was left stranded near the Big Sodus pier in Lake Ontario, marking the end of its service. Attempts to refloat the vessel proved futile due to extensive damage and challenging weather conditions.

Located By & Date:

The exact coordinates of the wreck have not been documented, but it is reported to be near the pier at Big Sodus, Lake Ontario.

NOTMARs & Advisories:

Navigational hazards and adverse weather conditions, particularly near the pier at Big Sodus, were significant contributors to the wreck of the London. Mariners should exercise caution in this region during rough weather.

Resources & Links:

•Buffalo Commercial Advertiser (Jan 15, 1859): Casualty report on the loss of the London.

•Oswego Times (Oct 22, 1858): Reports on the deployment of the wrecking Tug A.S. PAGE.

•Register of British Shipping (1854): Official classification and specifications of the vessel.

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Further details on the wreck and other historical vessels.

Conclusion:

The London, a Rebuilt fore-and-aft Schooner, served as a vital part of the Lake Ontario lumber trade until its loss in 1858 near Big Sodus. Although salvage crews recovered its cargo, the vessel itself was declared irrecoverable. Its wreck remains a part of the rich Maritime History of the Great Lakes.