IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

Vessel Name: VICTOR Registry: Canadian Built By: Cantin Place of Construction: Quebec City (Levis), Quebec, Canada Year Built: 1873 Length: 104.4 feet (31.82 meters) Gross Tonnage: 200 tons Register Tonnage: 186 tons Capacity: 14,000 bushels

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The VICTOR was a river Barge constructed in 1873 by Cantin in Quebec City, possibly at Levis. The vessel was designed for bulk cargo transport, primarily grain, along the St. Lawrence River and Great Lakes. It had a capacity of 14,000 bushels and was used extensively in the grain trade, reflecting its robust construction typical of river barges of that period.

HISTORY

The VICTOR had an operational history spanning from 1873 to 1895. Initially, it was likely intended for operations on the Richelieu River under the ownership of the Montreal Elevating Co. By 1874, the vessel became part of the St. Lawrence & Chicago Forwarding Co.’s fleet, before eventually being acquired by the Montreal Transportation Co. in 1883.

The Barge underwent several assessments over its years of operation:
1874: Rated 1 and valued at $6,800.

These changes in ratings and valuation reflect the gradual deterioration of the VICTOR as it aged and continued to face the harsh conditions of river and lake transport.

FINAL DISPOSITION

In 1891, the VICTOR was severely damaged by fire, believed to be the result of arson, near the Cotton Mill in Kingston’s inner harbor. The Whig newspaper described the Barge as “rotten” at the time of the incident, underscoring its poor condition. Following the fire, the vessel was broken up, and its registration was officially closed on April 27, 1899, marking the end of its service.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes


• Canadian Heritage Ship Information Database


• Kingston Shipwreck Database

KEYWORDS

VICTOR, River Barge, Montreal, Kingston, Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime History, Canadian Heritage, Arson

ANALYSIS

The VICTOR serves as a representative example of river barges that played a crucial role in the transportation of bulk cargo in the 19th century. Despite being initially well-built and rated highly, the Barge’s decline over time is evident in its decreasing valuation and ratings. The arson incident that ultimately led to its destruction highlights the vulnerabilities faced by aging vessels, particularly in the industrial areas where they were often docked. The VICTOR’s history provides insight into the operational challenges and eventual obsolescence faced by many such vessels during that era.