Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Name: FARRINGTON

•Type: Wooden-Hulled Propeller Vessel

•Official Number: 85554

•Year Built: Not specified

•Built At: Clayton, New York

•Construction Material: Wood

•Dimensions:

•Length: 45 feet (13.7 meters)

•Beam (Width): 8 feet (2.4 meters)

•Depth: 3 feet (0.9 meters)

•Tonnage:

•Gross Tonnage: 9.96 tons

•Net Tonnage: 6.8 tons

•Propulsion: Single screw propeller

•Location: Near Clayton, New York, in the St. Lawrence River

•Final Disposition: Sunk during reconstruction in May 1887

Vessel Type Description

The FARRINGTON was a small, wooden-hulled propeller vessel designed for navigation in the St. Lawrence River. With its modest dimensions and light tonnage, the vessel likely served local trade, transport, or personal use. The single-screw propeller provided reliable propulsion for short-distance operations, making it well-suited for the waterways around Clayton, New York.

History

Early Operations

The FARRINGTON began its service in the Clayton, NY, area, navigating the intricate waterways of the St. Lawrence River. Its small size and wooden construction made it ideal for local use, likely involved in passenger transport or light cargo operations.

First Tragedy – August 1881

In August 1881, the FARRINGTON experienced a catastrophic incident near Clayton, New York. The vessel sank, resulting in the tragic loss of five lives. Despite the severity of this event, the ship was salvaged and re-registered in Clayton, indicating it was deemed seaworthy after repairs.

Final Fate – May 1887

The FARRINGTON’s maritime journey came to an unfortunate end in May 1887. While undergoing reconstruction on a marine railway, the vessel slid from its position and sank into the St. Lawrence River near Clayton, NY. This incident ended the vessel’s service, leaving its remains in the river. The sinking during reconstruction underscores the challenges of maintaining aging wooden vessels during this period.

Final Disposition

•Date of Final Loss: May 1887

•Cause of Loss: Sank during reconstruction, sliding from a marine railway.

•Location: St. Lawrence River, near Clayton, NY.

Current Condition & Accessibility

No detailed records or surveys document the current condition of the FARRINGTON’s wreck. Given its small size and the wooden construction, it is likely that the remains have significantly deteriorated over time or have become buried under sediment in the St. Lawrence River. Without a confirmed wreck site, accessibility and exploration remain speculative.

Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the FARRINGTON wreck site. Mariners in the Clayton area should generally be aware of the numerous historical shipwrecks and obstructions in the St. Lawrence River.

Resources & Links

1.Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Provides records and narratives of ships operating in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River regions.

2.David Swayze Shipwreck File: Offers detailed records of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River shipwrecks.

3.Local Historical Archives: Historical societies in Clayton, NY, may have additional information or documentation related to the FARRINGTON.

Conclusion

The FARRINGTON’s history reflects the hazards faced by small wooden vessels operating in the St. Lawrence River during the late 19th century. Its multiple tragedies, including the loss of lives in 1881 and its final sinking in 1887 during reconstruction, highlight the challenges of maintaining and operating wooden vessels in a dynamic and often unforgiving environment. The vessel’s story remains a poignant chapter in the maritime history of Clayton, NY, and the St. Lawrence River.

Tags

#FARRINGTON #StLawrenceRiver #ClaytonNY #WoodenPropellerVessel #Shipwreck #MaritimeHistory #ReconstructionIncident