A.M. Robertson – Shipbuilder in Hamilton, Ontario

A.M. Robertson was a notable shipbuilder based in Hamilton, Ontario, during the mid-19th century, a period of significant growth in maritime trade and transportation on the Great Lakes. Operating at a time when wooden vessels dominated shipping and passenger transport, Robertson contributed to the robust shipbuilding industry that supported the economic development of Ontario and the broader Great Lakes region.

Significant Contribution: Builder of the Steamer ARGYLE

• In 1864, A.M. Robertson built the steamer ARGYLE, a wooden paddle steamer designed for passenger and cargo transport. With dimensions of 94 feet in length, 14 feet in beam, and 7 feet in depth, the ARGYLE was well-suited for operations on Lake Erieand nearby waters.

• The ARGYLE’s construction was part of a growing demand for vessels to facilitate commerce and connectivity between communities around the Great Lakes.

Context: Shipbuilding in Hamilton, Ontario

Hamilton was a burgeoning hub for shipbuilding during the 19th century due to its strategic location on Lake Ontario. Shipbuilders like A.M. Robertson leveraged the city’s access to raw materials (particularly timber from surrounding areas) and its expanding transportation networks to produce vessels that served the Great Lakes’ commercial and transportation needs.

• Era: Robertson’s active period coincided with advancements in shipbuilding techniques, including the transition from sail to steam-powered vessels.

• Materials: Wood remained the primary material for ship construction during this time, with Hamilton’s shipyards producing robust designs capable of handling the demands of the region’s waterways.

Legacy of A.M. Robertson

Although limited historical records are available about Robertson’s broader portfolio of work, his contributions, exemplified by the construction of the ARGYLE, reflect the importance of regional shipbuilders in shaping the Great Lakes’ maritime landscape. His craftsmanship supported the transportation needs of communities and businesses, leaving a lasting mark on Ontario’s maritime history.