IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION:
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: The AVON was a wooden propeller vessel built for bulk freight transport, commonly carrying grain, flour, and other cargoes across the Great Lakes. It was designed to navigate the extensive network of lakes, rivers, and canals between Montreal, Kingston, Toronto, and the upper lakes, making it a crucial part of the region’s commerce.
HISTORY: The AVON was constructed in 1857 in Kingston, Ontario, by Thurston, and was originally owned by Hooker, Pudnam & Co., a company engaged in freighting across the Great Lakes. The vessel was well-suited for carrying large cargoes, with a capacity exceeding 3,500 barrels. It played a vital role in the transportation of goods, particularly grain and flour, between major ports in Canada and the United States.
In 1857, the AVON received an engine salvaged from the burned propeller TINTO, and it was launched as a new propeller from the Marine Railway Shipyard in Kingston. This engine upgrade contributed to its robust performance during its service life.
On October 14, 1869, the AVON encountered a severe storm while navigating near Presque Isle, Michigan, in Lake Huron. The gale caused the vessel to spring a leak, forcing the crew to beach the AVON near 40-Mile Point to prevent it from sinking. Despite these efforts, the damage was severe, and the vessel required external assistance.
The wrecking tug MAGNET was dispatched to aid the AVON and managed to raise the vessel on October 22, 1869. The AVON was then towed toward Presque Isle, but further misfortune struck on October 23 when a steam pump failed, causing the vessel to begin sinking again. After being raised for a second time on October 28, the AVON faced more adverse weather, leading to it being beached for a third time.
Despite multiple salvage attempts, the AVON was ultimately abandoned and succumbed to the relentless storms of Lake Huron. The vessel broke apart, and its wreckage was scattered, eventually disappearing entirely. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties associated with the loss of the AVON.
FINAL DISPOSITION: The AVON was abandoned after repeated salvage efforts failed. The vessel broke apart and was scattered by subsequent storms, leading to its complete destruction and disappearance.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the wreck site of the AVON. The site is of historical significance, and any exploration should be conducted with care to preserve what remains of the vessel.
LOCATED BY & DATE: The exact location of the AVON’s wreckage has been lost over time due to the vessel breaking up and scattering. The last known efforts to save the AVON were recorded in October 1869.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
- Great Lakes Ships
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Bowling Green State University
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- The Marsh Collection
KEYWORDS: AVON, Lake Huron shipwreck, Presque Isle, 19th-century shipping, wooden propeller vessel, Great Lakes maritime history, Hooker Pudnam & Co.
CONCLUSION: The AVON’s tragic end highlights the perils faced by vessels navigating the often treacherous waters of the Great Lakes. Despite the crew’s valiant efforts and repeated salvage attempts, the vessel was ultimately claimed by the stormy waters of Lake Huron. The AVON’s story serves as a reminder of the challenges encountered by early mariners and the unforgiving nature of the Great Lakes. Today, the memory of the AVON and its contribution to the region’s commerce remains an important part of maritime history.
