Ellinwood – Sackets Harbor

Sackets Harbor, New York, established in 1801 by Augustus Sacket, quickly became a pivotal shipbuilding center, especially during the War of 1812. The village’s strategic location on Lake Ontario and its deep natural harbor made it an ideal site for naval operations. During the war, Sackets Harbor served as the primary U.S. military and naval base for the upper St. Lawrence River valley and the Great Lakes. The shipyards there were bustling with activity, constructing several significant vessels for the U.S. Navy. Notable ships built include the USS General Pike, USS Madison, and USS Oneida, among others. These shipbuilding efforts were crucial in establishing and maintaining American naval superiority on the Great Lakes during that period.  

While specific records of an individual named Ellinwood as a shipbuilder in Sackets Harbor are not readily available, it’s possible that he was among the many skilled craftsmen contributing to the shipbuilding efforts during that era. The collective work of these shipbuilders played a vital role in the maritime history of the Great Lakes and the defense of the United States during the early 19th century.

Vessels Associated with

• Stephen A. Douglas Was a wooden schooner constructed in 1859 by shipbuilder Ellinwood at Sackett’s Harbor, New York. With a tonnage of 360 tons (old measurement), the vessel was designed for cargo transport across the Great Lakes. Named after the prominent American politician Stephen A. Douglas, the schooner served in the regional trade routes during the mid-19th century

For a more in-depth exploration of Sackets Harbor’s rich history, you might find the following video informative