The CLEVELAND was a river barge with a rich operational history spanning four decades from 1872 to 1912. Built by F. Cantin in Quebec City, this sturdy vessel was an integral part of the maritime industry along the St. Lawrence River, serving a variety of roles over its years of service. Despite its eventual abandonment, the CLEVELAND remains a notable relic of 19th-century Canadian shipbuilding and river transport.
Construction and Early Years #
Constructed in 1872, the CLEVELAND was a sizable barge with a gross tonnage of 328.92 tons and a length of 138.4 feet. It had a substantial carrying capacity of 24,000 bushels, making it an essential vessel for transporting bulk goods along the St. Lawrence River and other connected waterways. The barge was initially rated and valued highly, reflecting its robust construction and utility.
Operational History and Modifications #
Throughout its operational life, the CLEVELAND experienced several repairs, modifications, and fluctuating valuations:
- 1874: The barge was rated 1 out of a possible 3 and valued at $9,000.
- 1878: Maintained the same rating but saw a decrease in value to $6,500.
- 1881: Underwent caulking and significant repairs, essential for maintaining its seaworthiness.
- 1883-1885: The CLEVELAND was rebuilt in Kingston, Ontario, marking a significant overhaul of the vessel.
- 1888: Chartered to the Ogdensburg Coal and Transport Co., highlighting its continued importance in regional trade.
- 1889: Received additional repairs, including the installation of a new forefoot and further caulking.
- 1890: Rated as A2 and valued at $6,000, indicating the barge’s improved condition following its repairs.
- 1892: Rating increased to A2½, with a valuation of $5,200, reflecting a well-maintained and reliable vessel.
- 1897: The rating dropped to B1, and the value decreased to $4,000, signaling the aging of the vessel and the need for more repairs.
Decline and Abandonment #
As the years passed, the CLEVELAND began to show its age. According to the Montreal Transportation Co. Directors’ Reports and minutes from 1902 to 1912, the barge was listed as “on hand but of no value,” indicating its decline in usefulness and market value.
Around 1908, the CLEVELAND was abandoned in the Cataraqui River at Kingston. This marked the end of its service life, and the vessel was left to deteriorate among other sunken vessels in the river. By 1915, the CLEVELAND was officially removed from the maritime register, signaling the final chapter in its long history.
Current Status #
Today, the remains of the CLEVELAND can still be seen at low water in the Cataraqui River. These remnants serve as a testament to the vessel’s long service life and the once-thriving river trade along the St. Lawrence. The wreck, though in ruins, continues to attract the interest of maritime historians and local enthusiasts who recognize the historical significance of these sunken vessels.
Legacy #
The story of the CLEVELAND is one of resilience, adaptation, and eventual decline. It reflects the broader narrative of many working vessels of the era, which were built to serve the needs of industry and commerce but eventually succumbed to the relentless march of time. The CLEVELAND‘s legacy endures through the visible remains in the Cataraqui River and the historical records that document its decades of service.
External Links and References #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Explore more about the history and legacy of vessels like the CLEVELAND that played vital roles in the commerce of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.
- Kingston Historical Society: A resource for further research on the shipbuilding history of Kingston, Ontario, and the vessels that were built or rebuilt in the region.
- Cataraqui River Historical Sites: Information on the wrecks and historical sites in the Cataraqui River, including the CLEVELAND and other sunken vessels.
