Identification & Site Information

•Name: Laura E. Calvin

•Also Known As: Commerce, Eclipse

•Type: Bark (rigged as a Schooner with three masts)

•Tonnage: 311 tons

•Dimensions:

•Length: 130.4 feet (39.74 meters)

•Beam: 20.7 feet (6.31 meters)

•Depth: 9.4 feet (2.87 meters)

•Year Built: 1843 (originally as Commerce)

•Rebuilt: 1863, renamed Laura E. Calvin

•Builder: H. Roney, Garden Island, Ontario

•Original Owners: Calvin & Breck

•Registered At: Kingston, Ontario

•Home Port: Garden Island, Ontario

•Final Location: Near Broderick’s Point, Lake Ontario

•Final Disposition: Sank due to a severe leak on July 5, 1869

•Final Cargo: 12 tons of stone ballast

Vessel Type Description

The Laura E. Calvin was originally launched as Commerce in 1843 and became renowned as Eclipse after a remarkable trial voyage. Rebuilt as a Bark in 1863, the Laura E. Calvin served as a multi-purpose Great Lakes vessel, primarily for transporting goods. Its carvel Hull and square Stern design, coupled with three Schooner-rigged masts, made it a versatile ship for both speed and durability in the challenging conditions of the Great Lakes.

History

Early Years as Commerce and Eclipse

The vessel began its life as Commerce, serving as a fast and reliable ship on Lake Ontario. After its rebuilding and renaming to Eclipse, the ship gained fame during a trial voyage by outpacing the Steamer Lady of the Lake on the Hamilton-Toronto route. Its reputation for speed contributed to its rebranding as a competitive and efficient cargo vessel.

Rebuild and New Role as Laura E. Calvin

In 1863, the vessel was reconstructed at Garden Island, Ontario, and renamed Laura E. Calvin. The Rebuild enhanced its structural integrity and adaptability for commercial trade. Valued at $12,000 and classified as A2, the Laura E. Calvin became a mainstay of the Great Lakes’ bustling maritime network.

Final Voyage and Tragic End

On July 3, 1869, the Laura E. Calvin departed Kingston, Ontario, bound for Chicago with 12 tons of stone ballast. Early on July 4, the crew discovered a severe leak, leading to relentless efforts to pump water and steer the ship to safety. Despite these efforts, the vessel sank rapidly near Broderick’s Point, approximately 60 miles from Niagara. All crew members were rescued by the Schooner John Martin after responding to their distress signal. The sinking occurred with all sails set, a stark testament to the urgency and tragedy of the event.

Final Disposition

•Date Sunk: July 5, 1869

•Location: Near Broderick’s Point, Lake Ontario, approximately 60 miles from Niagara, between three and twelve miles offshore.

•Wreck Status: The exact location and condition of the wreck remain undocumented, and it has not been definitively located or explored.

NOTMARs & Advisories

•Current Status: No Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with the Laura E. Calvin wreck site.

•Navigation Hazards: The location is not marked on navigational charts and poses no known navigational risks.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The remains of the Laura E. Calvin are presumed to lie at the bothttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpg of Lake Ontario near Broderick’s Point. However, its exact location and condition remain unknown. Without documentation or exploration, the site is inaccessible to divers and researchers.

Resources & Links

•Marine Disasters on the Western Lakes during 1869: Comprehensive account by Captain J.W. Hall.

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Detailed historical records of the Laura E. Calvin and similar vessels.

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Extensive historical database on Great Lakes vessels.

•Great Lakes Ships: Provides additional context on vessels like the Laura E. Calvin.

Conclusion

The Laura E. Calvin’s transition from Commerce to Eclipse and finally to Laura E. Calvin illustrates the evolving demands of maritime commerce on the Great Lakes. Its final voyage and sinking highlight the risks and unpredictability faced by mariners. Despite its loss, the Laura E. Calvin remains a symbol of the ingenuity and determination of Great Lakes shipping during the 19th century.

Keywords & Tags

•#LauraECalvin

•#LakeOntarioShipwreck

•#GreatLakesMaritimeHistory

•#CommerceEclipse

•#BrodericksPointWreck

•#SchoonerBarkHistory

Let me know if further details or specific resources are needed!