Aurora: A Historical Overview

• Vessel Name: Aurora
• Year of Build: 1866
• Built At: Levis, Quebec
• Type: Sidewheel Steamboat (Tug)
• Hull Materials: Wood
• Number of Decks: 1
• Length: 108 feet (32.9 meters)
• Gross Tonnage: 125 tons
• Official Number: 53887

Vessel Type Description

The Aurora was a wooden sidewheel Steamboat designed primarily for Tug operations. With its modest size and robust design, it assisted larger vessels, enabling navigation in rivers and canals where conditions were challenging. The sidewheel propulsion system, a hallmark of 19th-century steam vessels, made it particularly adept at maneuverability and towing.

History

Built in 1866 at Levis, Quebec, the Aurora began its service as a critical player in the region’s maritime industry. Initially owned by Captain Filgate by 1868, it changed ownership multiple times, reflecting its utility and demand.

• 1868: Owned by Captain Filgate.
• 1871: Sold to J. Stephenson of the Beauharnois Navigation Company.
• 1877: Transferred to J. Blondin, operating out of Lachine, Quebec.

The Aurora operated as a Tugboat, facilitating the movement of larger vessels, including those carrying goods and passengers. It was a vital asset for the growing commerce in Quebec, supporting both local and regional trade.

Final Disposition

On July 5, 1885, the Aurora was destroyed in a fire at Carillon, Quebec. The vessel was completely consumed, and no salvage was reported. The cause of the fire remains unknown, with limited historical documentation surrounding the incident. Its loss marked the end of an 18-year service period, a significant duration for vessels of its kind during the era.

NOTMARs & Advisories

No active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with the Aurora, given its destruction predates contemporary navigational records.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Visit Here
• Quebec Historical Archives: Research repository for 19th-century vessels.
• Great Lakes Ships: Historical database of regional vessels.

Conclusion

The Aurora exemplified the essential role of tugboats in 19th-century maritime operations. It supported vital trade routes along Quebec’s waterways, fostering economic growth and facilitating navigation for larger ships. Despite its destruction by fire in 1885, the Aurora’slegacy highlights the importance and risks of its operations. Its service is a poignant reminder of the maritime industry’s evolution during a transformative period in Canadian history.

Keywords: Aurora, Sidewheel Steamboat, Tugboat, Levis Quebec, Carillon Quebec, 19th-century maritime history, Captain Filgate, Beauharnois Navigation Company, J. Blondin.