Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Name: Sir Charles Metcalf

•Vessel Type: Wooden Schooner

•Year Built: 1851

•Shipyard: H. Metcalf, Milford, Ontario

•Dimensions: Not specified (original tonnage: 150 tons; reduced to 126 tons by 1860)

•Location: Near Main Duck Island, Lake Ontario

•Coordinates: Not specified

•Final Voyage: October 11, 1861

•Cargo: 194 tons of coal

•Site Status: Wreck location and condition not well-documented

Vessel Type Description

The Sir Charles Metcalf was a wooden-hulled, two-masted Schooner constructed in 1851. Designed for the robust demands of 19th-century maritime commerce, the vessel played a vital role in transporting goods across Lake Ontario. Schooners of this era were instrumental in the movement of bulk cargoes such as coal, lumber, and grain, serving as the lifeblood of trade between growing port towns and cities.

History

Construction and Early Service

Built in Milford, Ontario, the Sir Charles Metcalf was a product of the burgeoning shipbuilding industry along the Great Lakes. Its wooden Hull and masts were tailored for durability and efficiency, enabling the vessel to withstand the unpredictable conditions of Lake Ontario. Initially registered at 150 tons, the Schooner exemplified the workhorse design of its time.

The Schooner was originally registered in Milford, Ontario, where it served as a critical link in the transportation network that connected Canadian and American shores. Its sturdy construction and reliable performance earned it a place among the many ships that kept the wheels of trade turning during the mid-19th century.

Ownership and Modifications

By 1860, the vessel had come under the ownership of J. Doyle of Kingston, Ontario. During this period, the Schooner’s tonnage was reduced from 150 to 126 tons, likely due to structural modifications to optimize its performance or adapt to changing cargo demands. Such changes were common for vessels seeking to extend their service life or enhance their versatility.

Final Voyage and Tragic End

On October 11, 1861, the Sir Charles Metcalf embarked on its final voyage, carrying 194 tons of coal. The Schooner set out to navigate the familiar but often perilous waters of Lake Ontario, with its course taking it near Main Duck Island. At some point during this journey, disaster struck.

The Schooner Foundered under circumstances that remain unclear to this day. Whether it succumbed to a sudden storm, a structural failure, or another unforeseen hazard is unknown. The wreck was a significant loss, both for its owners and for the trade network it served.

Legacy and Final Disposition

The wreck of the Sir Charles Metcalf lies near Main Duck Island, shrouded in mystery and undisturbed by modern exploration. While its exact location has not been extensively documented, the Schooner is remembered as part of the rich maritime history of Lake Ontario. Its story stands as a testament to the resilience and vulnerability of 19th-century Great Lakes shipping.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or navigational advisories concerning the Sir Charles Metcalf wreck site. Mariners and divers interested in exploring the area are encouraged to consult local resources for the latest conditions and advisories.

Located By & Date

The Sir Charles Metcalf wreck has not been definitively located, and no formal exploration of the site has been reported. Historical records provide the primary source of information about the Schooner and its demise.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Repository of historical records and shipwreck accounts.

•Prince Edward County Maritime Archives: Historical documents related to maritime activities in the Lake Ontario region.

Keywords

•Sir Charles Metcalf

•Wooden Schooner

•Lake Ontario Shipwreck

•Main Duck Island

•Milford Ontario

•19th-Century Maritime History

•Coal Transport

•Schooner Wreck

Conclusion

The Sir Charles Metcalf reflects the challenges and triumphs of the maritime trade that flourished on Lake Ontario in the 19th century. Despite its robust construction and pivotal role in the region’s economy, the Schooner was ultimately claimed by the same waters that sustained its operations. Its loss near Main Duck Island underscores the inherent risks of lake navigation during this period and serves as a historical touchstone for the legacy of Great Lakes shipping.