Cape Vincent

### **Category: Cape Vincent, New York** #### **Overview** **Cape Vincent, New York**, is a historic waterfront town located at the **confluence of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario**, directly across from **Wolfe Island, Ontario**. Known for its **maritime history, lighthouses, ferry service, and fishing**, Cape Vincent serves as a key gateway between the **United States and Canada** and is an important part of the **Thousand Islands region**. #### **Geography & Location** - **Northernmost point of Jefferson County, New York**. - Sits at the **outlet of Lake Ontario**, where the **St. Lawrence River begins**. - Faces **Wolfe Island, Ontario**, with ferry service connecting the two. - Strategically located along the **St. Lawrence Seaway**, making it a significant point for maritime traffic. #### **Maritime & Shipping History** - **Early Trade & Navigation**: Cape Vincent was a crucial location for **fur trading, shipping, and fishing** in the early 19th century. - **Shipwrecks & Naval History**: The area saw significant naval activity during the **War of 1812** and has several **wrecks and historic sites** nearby. - **St. Lawrence Seaway**: Large freighters regularly pass Cape Vincent on their way to and from the Great Lakes. - **Lighthouse History**: - **Tibbets Point Lighthouse (1827)** – One of the most famous landmarks, guiding ships into the St. Lawrence River. - The lighthouse is still operational and serves as a **popular tourist attraction**. #### **Diving & Shipwrecks** - The waters off Cape Vincent and Wolfe Island contain **numerous historic shipwrecks**. - Notable wrecks in the area include: - **Maggie L. (Schooner, 1890)** – Sank near Wolfe Island. - **David W. Mills (1907)** – A wooden freighter lost in a storm near the Oswego. - **A.E. Vickery (1889)** – One of the most popular dive sites in the **Thousand Islands**. #### **Tourism & Attractions** - **Tibbets Point Lighthouse & Visitor Center** – Offers **scenic views** of the St. Lawrence River. - **Cape Vincent-Wolfe Island Ferry** – A key **border crossing**, connecting New York to Ontario. - **Boating & Fishing** – The area is famous for **muskie, bass, and northern pike fishing**. - **Thousand Islands Wine Trail** – Features local wineries and tasting tours. - **French Festival (Annual Event)** – Celebrates Cape Vincent’s early **French heritage** with parades, music, and fireworks. #### **Environmental & Navigational Challenges** - **Strong Currents**: The transition between Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River creates **challenging navigation conditions**. - **Winter Conditions**: The **ferry closes during winter**, and ice affects local boating. - **Seaway Traffic**: Large commercial vessels create **wake hazards** for smaller boats. ### **Why It Matters** Cape Vincent is **a key link between the United States and Canada**, offering **rich maritime history, shipwreck sites, and beautiful waterfront scenery**. Whether for **diving, fishing, or historical exploration**, the town remains an **essential stop along the St. Lawrence River**.