Identification & Site Information

•Name: Iceberg

•Type: Brig (two-masted sailing vessel)

•Built: 1856, Kingston, Ontario

•Builder/Owner: Dr. John Rae, Hamilton, Ontario

•Dimensions: Single Deck, two masts, wooden Hull

•Final Resting Place: Near Oswego, New York, Lake Ontario

Vessel Type Description

The Iceberg was a Brig, a versatile two-masted sailing vessel widely used in the mid-19th century. Known for their balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability, brigs were the backbone of many maritime enterprises. The Iceberg was uniquely constructed for Arctic exploration, designed with a heavily reinforced wooden Hull to endure icy conditions. Its robust build and purposeful design reflected its intended role in one of the most challenging environments on Earth.

History

Constructed in 1856 in Kingston, Ontario, the Iceberg was commissioned by Dr. John Rae of Hamilton, Ontario. Dr. Rae, a prominent Arctic explorer, envisioned the vessel as a crucial tool in his quest to unravel the mystery of Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated Arctic expedition.

The Iceberg‘s sturdy wooden Hull and compact yet resilient design embodied the requirements for polar service. However, the ship’s destiny diverged from its intended mission. Despite being built with Arctic exploration in mind, the vessel primarily transported cargo on the Great Lakes during its brief service.

Tragically, the Iceberg was lost before it could embark on its Arctic mission. On August 17, 1857, the vessel Foundered near Oswego, New York, while en route from Cleveland, Ohio, to Kingston, Ontario, laden with coal. The exact circumstances remain unclear, but the unpredictable and often violent weather of Lake Ontario likely contributed to the disaster. The entire crew perished, marking a somber end to the Iceberg’s ambitious vision.

Final Disposition

The Iceberg rests near Oswego, New York, in Lake Ontario. The wreck has not been definitively located or identified, leaving its exact position a mystery. Given the time since its sinking and the violent conditions of the lake, the wreckage is likely heavily deteriorated or buried beneath sediment.

Located By & Date

No modern discovery of the Iceberg’s remains has been documented. Its wreck has not been identified through sonar surveys or diver investigations, keeping its location speculative.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the Iceberg. However, given the numerous shipwrecks near Oswego, caution is advised for navigation in the area.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive historical data on Great Lakes vessels.

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Database of Great Lakes shipwrecks, including historical records on the Iceberg.

•Great Lakes Ships Database: Detailed accounts of shipwrecks and vessel histories.

Conclusion

The Iceberg represents an untold chapter in both Arctic exploration and Great Lakes maritime history. Built with a daring mission in mind, it never reached the icy waters it was designed for. Instead, it met a tragic end on Lake Ontario, where it remains a poignant symbol of the unpredictable and often unforgiving nature of Great Lakes navigation. The vessel’s story continues to evoke the spirit of exploration and the challenges faced by mariners in the 19th century.

Keywords

•Iceberg

•Brig shipwreck

•Lake Ontario wreck

•Arctic exploration vessel

•Great Lakes maritime history

•Oswego shipwreck

•Dr. John Rae