Joel Norton, Richmond, Ohio

Joel Norton, a shipbuilder based in Richmond, Ohio, was the constructor of the Calvin Snell, a wooden schooner built in the mid-19th century. Norton’s shipyard in Richmond contributed to the Great Lakes maritime industry during a period of significant growth in regional trade and transportation. Known for crafting sturdy, utilitarian vessels, Norton’s work reflected the practical needs of shipowners who relied on durable designs to navigate the challenging conditions of the Great Lakes.

The Calvin Snell was one of several vessels produced in Norton’s yard and showcased his ability to create reliable schooners suited for bulk cargo like stone and grain. Though much of Norton’s shipbuilding history remains undocumented, his contribution through vessels like the Calvin Snell places him among the skilled shipwrights supporting the Great Lakes economy in the 19th century.