History
In a devastating incident on August 25, 1903, the Standard Oil Company’s propeller, the Clayton, met a fiery end that left a trail of destruction in its wake. The vessel carried within its hull tanks holding a substantial 1700 gallons of oil. Tragedy struck when the tanks burst open, resulting in a violent explosion that scattered the oil in all directions. The oil ignited upon contact with flames or sparks, causing a vast area of the river’s surface to become an inferno.
Despite the efforts of those on the scene, the blaze quickly engulfed the propeller Clayton, leaving little chance of salvation for the vessel. The fire raged uncontrollably, and even the surrounding docks faced imminent peril. Heroic efforts were undertaken to protect the docks from the encroaching flames, but the situation proved incredibly challenging.
Ultimately, the fire claimed the entirety of the propeller Clayton, reducing it to ashes and ending its career on a tragic note. This catastrophic event underscored the immense dangers posed by the volatile combination of oil and fire on the waters.
The Steamer Myrtle: A Similar Tragedy
Around the same time, another vessel met a similarly tragic fate due to fire. On a fateful day near Clayton, Ontario, the steamer Myrtle suffered a disastrous incident. A lantern exploded onboard, casting burning oil across the vessel. The flames rapidly consumed the steamer, reducing it to a charred shell.
The loss incurred from the destruction of the steamer Myrtle amounted to a significant $7,000. Insurance coverage was available, but only to the extent of $1,200. This unfortunate event served as a somber reminder of the vulnerability of vessels to the ravages of fire and the challenges of containing such destructive elements in a maritime environment.
These two incidents, occurring in close succession, highlighted the inherent risks associated with vessels carrying inflammable materials. The tales of the propeller Clayton and the steamer Myrtle stand as poignant reminders of the precarious nature of maritime endeavors and the unpredictable threats that can transform tranquil waters into scenes of devastation.
