IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Eagle was a Durham Boat, a type of flat-bottomed cargo vessel commonly used during the 18th and 19th centuries. Durham Boats were known for their durability and large carrying capacity, making them ideal for transporting goods on rivers and lakes. These vessels typically had long, narrow hulls with a shallow draft, allowing them to navigate through shallow waters and even be poled upstream when necessary.
The Eagle, built in 1817, was a substantial example of this vessel type, measuring 76.3 feet in length and 12 feet in width. It was capable of carrying up to 42 tons of cargo, which made it a valuable asset for trade and transport in the Great Lakes region.
HISTORY #
The Eagle was built in 1817 at Black Rock, New York, a strategic location near Buffalo that served as a hub for trade and transport on the Great Lakes. The vessel was owned by William Davison, James Sloan, and John H. Davison, who were prominent figures in Buffalo’s early maritime commerce.
Durham Boats like the Eagle were essential for transporting goods such as timber, barrels of produce, and other materials across the Great Lakes and along major rivers. They played a crucial role in the economic development of the region during the early 19th century.
In October 1828, the Eagle met its demise near Fox Island, Cape Vincent, in Lake Ontario. The exact cause of the sinking is not recorded, but it marked the end of the vessel’s service. The Eagle became a permanent fixture on the lakebed, a relic of the era of Durham Boats.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The Eagle sank in October 1828 near Fox Island, Cape Vincent, New York. The reasons for the sinking are not well-documented, but the vessel’s fate serves as a reminder of the perils of navigating the unpredictable waters of Lake Ontario during that period. The wreck likely rests in shallow waters, typical of the area, though the exact depth is not specified.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SITE #
The sinking of the Eagle is significant as it represents the challenges faced by vessels operating on Lake Ontario during the early 19th century. The Eagle was part of the broader story of Durham Boats, which were instrumental in the economic development of the Great Lakes region. The wreck is a valuable piece of maritime history, illustrating the types of vessels that were once common on these waters and the risks they faced.
FUTURE EXPLORATION AND PRESERVATION #
Given the historical significance of the Eagle, further exploration of the site could provide valuable insights into the construction and operation of Durham Boats. Preservation efforts should focus on documenting the wreck and protecting it from unauthorized disturbances. The site could also serve as an educational resource for understanding the maritime history of Lake Ontario and the role of Durham Boats in the region’s development.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: A comprehensive resource for information on shipwrecks and maritime incidents on Lake Ontario.
- Great Lakes Shipwreck Preservation Society: An organization dedicated to the preservation and exploration of shipwrecks in the Great Lakes.
- Shipwreck Stories: A platform for sharing narratives and updates on shipwreck discoveries, including historic vessels like the Eagle.
