Graham & Co. of St. Catharines

Graham & Co. was a business entity based in St. Catharines, Ontario, which operated the steamer ARGYLE after acquiring it from its original owner, W. Ellis of Dundas, Ontario. The company exemplifies the entrepreneurial ventures that emerged in the 19th century to capitalize on the burgeoning transportation and shipping industries in the Great Lakes region.

St. Catharines: A Hub for Trade and Maritime Activity

During the mid-to-late 19th century, St. Catharines was a growing urban centre in southern Ontario. Its proximity to the Welland Canalpositioned the city as a vital hub for trade, connecting Lake Ontario to Lake Erie and facilitating the movement of goods and passengers.

• Economic Context: Businesses like Graham & Co. thrived by leveraging the strategic location of St. Catharines along these essential transportation routes.

• Maritime Connections: Companies invested in vessels like the ARGYLE to ensure their participation in the region’s expanding network of commerce and travel.

Ownership of the Steamer ARGYLE

Graham & Co.‘s ownership of the ARGYLE reflects its involvement in the maritime sector, likely catering to passenger transport and cargo shipping needs across Lake Erie and connected waterways. The steamer’s dimensions (94 feet in length) and steam-powered paddlewheel design made it ideal for navigating the relatively shallow and confined waters of the Great Lakes and regional canals.

The ARGYLE Incident Under Graham & Co.

In August 1877, while under the ownership of Graham & Co., the ARGYLE suffered a major accident near Port Rowan, Ontario, on Lake Erie:

1. Collision with a Dock:

The steamer struck a dock, resulting in a 6×6 foot hole in its hull and leaving it in a sinking condition.

2. Challenges in Salvage Efforts:

• The incident was complicated by Canadian legal restrictions that prohibited the use of U.S. wrecking equipment in Canadian waters.

• Despite these challenges, a representative from the insurance company managed to temporarily seal the hull and prevent further sinking by manually bailing out water.

3. Passenger Rescue:

The propeller DOMINION rescued the ARGYLE’s passengers, ensuring there were no casualties in the incident.

Legacy

Although the ultimate fate of Graham & Co. is unclear, its ownership of the ARGYLE underscores the importance of regional operators in supporting transportation and commerce across the Great Lakes. St. Catharines-based enterprises like Graham & Co. played a vital role in the economic growth of Ontario by connecting towns and cities through reliable maritime services. The company’s association with the ARGYLE links it to one of the many stories of resilience and innovation in Great Lakes maritime history.