History #
The ARCTIC, originally built as a bark on the hull of the steamer WELLAND in 1858 by Arch Muir in Port Dalhousie, had a rich history. It measured 130 feet in length, 21 feet in beam, and had a depth of 8 feet, weighing 265 tons. The vessel underwent various rebuilds and major repairs in 1870, 1881, and 1890, transitioning from a bark to a schooner in 1860.
Tragedy struck the ARCTIC on July 9, 1896, when it encountered a fierce storm while en route from Providence Bay, Ontario, to Buffalo. Carrying a cargo of cedar posts, the vessel dropped anchor and the crew worked tirelessly to operate the pumps, hoping to keep the ship afloat. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, the vessel eventually sank. During the ordeal, two crew members lost their lives while attempting to reach shore in the schooner’s small yawl. The remaining crew members were later rescued by a lifesaving crew from Buffalo. It is worth noting that there is no record indicating whether the ARCTIC was considered a total loss or if any recovery efforts were made.
The ship had a connection to St. Catharines and was owned and sailed by Captain Sidley. Although the specific details of its recovery or fate as a total loss are unknown, the ARCTIC’s history reveals its resilience and adaptability through multiple rebuilds and repairs over the years.
