Steamer Canadian (1853–1868) – Comprehensive Historical Overview

Identification & Vessel Information

• Name: Canadian (also known as Canadian Lily)
• Vessel Type: Sidewheel Steamer
• Year Built: 1853
• Builder: H. & S. Jenkins, Chatham, Ontario
• Owner(s): Initially owned by W. & W. Eberts, later owned by multiple parties, including John Pridgeon of Detroit.
• Home Ports: Chatham, Goderich, Detroit, and later Owen Sound
• Registry Details: Registered under the British Register of Shipping for Inland Waters.  390 tons at launch; later increased to 339 tons following modifications.
• Specifications  Length: 162 feet (49.4 m)  Beam: 47 feet (14.3 m) (including Paddlewheel guards)  Depth: 15.08 feet (4.6 m)
• Propulsion:  single-cylinder walking-beam steam engine, powered by a Wood-Fired Boiler.  Engine capacity: 70 cubic feet.
• Boiler: Built by John Dunham of Detroit, 11 feet in diameter and 30 feet long.
• Decks: Two (added upper cabins in 1854).
• Hull Structure: Carvel Planked; Stern was round with no masts.

Operational History

Launch and Early Career (1853–1855):

Launched at Chatham, Ontario, in 1853, the Canadian was designed to replace the Steamer Ploughboy on the route between Chatham and Detroit. Initially named Canadian Lily, her maiden voyage was delayed by ice in Lake St. Clair. Recognized as one of the fastest and most reliable steamers on the western Great Lakes, capable of making the trip between Detroit and Chatham in just 3.5 hours. In 1854, the vessel received an upper Deck with additional staterooms, improving passenger accommodations.

Accidents and Competition (1855–1860):

• In 1855, the Canadian was caught in a fierce gale off Goderich, Ontario, where Captain Peer’s innovative use of an anchor off the Stern helped stabilize the vessel and bring her safely to port.
• Fierce competition from other Steamer operators, such as E.B. Ward’s Forester and Huron, led to fare wars and public disputes, including claims that the Canadian’s boiler was unsafe. The Eberts brothers, along with the boilermaker, defended the vessel in the press.

Route Changes and Notable Events:

By 1856, Captain W.H. Smith became part-owner and shifted the Canadian’s operations to Georgian Bay, connecting ports like Owen Sound, Collingwood, and Goderich.

In 1859, the Canadian rescued passengers from the Steamer Ploughboy, which had become disabled near Lonely Island in Georgian Bay.

Conversion to Towing Tug (1861–1863):

 In 1861, the Canadian was sold to John Pridgeon of Detroit for $12,000 and converted into a Towboat for use on Lake St. Clair and in Saginaw Bay.  Continued to face minor incidents, including collisions and mechanical failures:

• June 1861: Struck a sunken scow on the Thames River.
• July 1862: Broke machinery in Saginaw Bay.
• October 1862: Collided with the Steamer Forester in the Detroit River, resulting in $1,300 in damages.

Later Career and Retirement (1863–1868):

In 1863, the Canadian operated on the Goderich-Saginaw route, where it transported lumber and salt, maintaining a reputation for speed and reliability. The Steamer was sold to the Buffalo & Lake Huron Railway Company in mid-1863 for $16,000. In 1864, the Canadian was placed on the Southampton-Goderich-Sarnia route, providing critical mail, freight, and passenger services to growing communities on the Saugeen Coast.

Final Years and Disposition

By 1865, the vessel was largely retired from active service. Attempts to Rebuild and convert her into a more powerful lake boat were planned but never realized. Official records suggest the Canadian was dismantled between 1868 and 1869, with parts of her Hull possibly left in Lake Huron, south of Goderich.

Historical Significance

Economic Impact: The Canadian was a key player in connecting Ontario ports to major trade hubs, facilitating economic growth in Chatham, Goderich, Owen Sound, and beyond.

Technological Advancements: The vessel showcased innovations in steam propulsion and design for her time, including her walking-beam engine and down-return boiler.

Cultural Legacy: The Canadian was a community lifeline, remembered fondly for her service to the people of the Great Lakes region, particularly during her time on the Saugeen Coast.

Notable Incidents

• 1. Fire and Gale of 1855: Demonstrated the crew’s skill and the vessel’s resilience under adverse conditions.
• 2. Rescue of the Ploughboy (1859): Cemented the Canadian’s reputation as a dependable and capable vessel.
• 3. Fare Wars with Competitors: Illustrated the competitive and occasionally ruthless nature of Great Lakes shipping during the mid-19th century.

Primary Sources

• Chatham Weekly Planet: Regular reports on the vessel’s operations, accidents, and changes in ownership.
• Goderich Signal: Detailed accounts of the Canadian’s service in Georgian Bay and the Saugeen Coast.
• Detroit Free Press & Buffalo Commercial Advertiser: Reports on maritime accidents and disputes involving the Canadian.
• Shipping Registers: Official Canadian shipping registries and casualty lists provide technical details and ownership history.
• Wikipedia contributors. (2025, January 17). Chatham-Kent. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 12:33, January 24, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chatham-Kent&oldid=1270024112