A Tragic Tale of Loss and Redemption #
The history of maritime travel is riddled with stories of triumph and tragedy, showcasing the unforgiving power of the sea. One such tale is that of the Jesse H. Breck, a three-masted schooner that met a devastating fate on Lake Ontario in 1890. From its construction to its sinking and subsequent resurrection as the H.M. Stanley, this article delves into the captivating history of the vessel, shedding light on the lives lost and the resilience of those involved.
A Promising Beginning:
The Jesse H. Breck was built in 1873 by Andrews & Son in Port Dalhousie, Ontario, for the ownership of Breck & Booth, based in Kingston. Constructed with sturdy wood and measuring 342 feet in length, 24 feet in width, and 12 feet in depth, the schooner was an impressive sight to behold. With a gross tonnage of 376 and net tonnage of 364, the Jesse H. Breck was a formidable vessel, ready to navigate the vast waters of Lake Ontario.
The Fateful Journey:
On May 17, 1890, tragedy struck as the Jesse H. Breck embarked on a journey from Toledo, Ohio, to Garden Island, Ontario. Laden with oak lumber, the schooner battled not only leaks but also treacherous winds for hours. The relentless storm ultimately caused the vessel to capsize and sink near Nine-Mile Point, within sight of the family home of Captain Thomas Mackie, the skipper. Tragically, all eight individuals aboard, including Captain Mackie’s three sons and daughter, lost their lives.
Devastation and Salvage Efforts:
The sinking of the Jesse H. Breck sent shockwaves through the maritime community, as it was known as a strong and substantial ship. The news of the loss deeply affected the families and friends of the crew members. Efforts were quickly launched to recover the vessel and salvage its cargo. On June 1-2, the schooner was successfully raised and towed to Garden Island, but it sank again just 100 yards from the shore.
Rebirth as the H.M. Stanley:
Despite the tragic events, the Jesse H. Breck’s story did not end with its sinking. In 1892, the schooner was extensively rebuilt and relaunched under the new name H.M. Stanley. The vessel, measuring 132.3 feet in length, 25.6 feet in width, and 11.7 feet in depth, found new life under the ownership of George W. Morden from Oakville, Ontario. With a tonnage of 305, the H.M. Stanley continued to sail the waters, defying the odds and serving as a symbol of resilience and renewal.
The history of the Jesse H. Breck, later known as the H.M. Stanley, is one that embodies both tragedy and redemption. The devastating loss of life and the sinking of the schooner serve as a somber reminder of the perils faced by sailors in the face of unforgiving storms. However, the vessel’s eventual resurrection and continued journeys as the H.M. Stanley speak to the indomitable spirit of those involved in the maritime industry. The story of the Jesse H. Breck serves as a testament to the courage, determination, and unwavering resolve that define the human connection to the sea.
