Vessel Name: Bay of Quinte Scuttled – Garden Island #
Year of Build: 1852
Built at: Kingston, Ontario
Propulsion: Sidewheel
Tonnage (gross): 283 tons
Length: 152 feet
Beam: 24 feet
Depth: 9 feet
Construction and Ownership
The Bay of Quinte was a sidewheel steamer built in 1852 by G. Thurston at the Kingston Marine Railway, located in Kingston, Ontario. The vessel was initially constructed for O. S. Gildersleeve and operated under the Bay of Quinte Steamboat Company. At 152 feet long with a beam of 24 feet and a depth of 9 feet, the Bay of Quinte was a substantial vessel for its time, designed primarily for the Kingston-Bay of Quinte passenger trade.
The ship’s engine, produced by the Kingston Foundry Co., measured 37½ inches by 144 inches, giving the vessel the power needed to transport passengers and goods efficiently across the waterways. The Bay of Quinte was launched on April 24, 1852.
Operational History
The Bay of Quinte primarily operated as a passenger steamer on the route between Kingston and the Bay of Quinte, a region known for its scenic waters and bustling port activity during the mid-19th century. In addition to regular passenger service, the vessel occasionally filled in as a mail steamer on Lake Ontario, further extending its range and utility.
Notable Events in the Vessel’s History: #
- 1852-1858: Early Service and Wolfe Island Canal
Shortly after its launch, the Bay of Quinte was used on its primary route, but in 1858, it was the first vessel to make a transit of the newly opened Wolfe Island Canal (around June 1, 1858). However, it quickly became apparent that the ship was too large for regular service in the canal, limiting its operations there. - 1865: Shaft Issues
In the summer of 1865, the Bay of Quinte was laid up for several weeks due to a broken shaft, which interrupted its services. Mechanical failures like this were common for steam-powered vessels of the era and required significant downtime for repairs. - 1868: Structural Upgrades
In 1868, the ship underwent a major renovation. The main deck was replaced, and the saloon was enlarged to better accommodate passengers. These upgrades helped extend the vessel’s service life and improve passenger comfort on long voyages. - 1871: Conversion to a Towboat
In 1871, the vessel was sold to Calvin & Breck, a prominent Kingston firm, and converted into a towboat. This marked a shift in the vessel’s role from passenger transport to assisting other ships in towing cargo along the busy waters of Lake Ontario.
Final Disposition: Broken Up in 1885
After several decades of service, the Bay of Quinte was retired and likely scuttled in 1885. The vessel’s long operational life, which saw it transition from a passenger steamer to a towboat, reflects the evolving needs of maritime transport in the region. Steamers like the Bay of Quinte played a vital role in both passenger service and commercial trade, particularly in bustling waterways such as the Bay of Quinte and Lake Ontario.
Historical Significance
The Bay of Quinte is notable for its role in 19th-century Canadian maritime history. As one of the prominent steamers of its time, it contributed to the economic development of the Kingston area and the broader Lake Ontario region. The ship’s conversion from a passenger vessel to a towboat in 1871 highlights the adaptability of vessels from this era, as they often shifted roles to meet the changing demands of industry and transportation.
The ship’s early transit through the Wolfe Island Canal is another significant milestone, showcasing the vessel’s importance in early efforts to connect key waterways for trade and travel.
Summary of Key Events: #
- 1852: Built in Kingston, Ontario, and launched for passenger service between Kingston and the Bay of Quinte.
- 1858: First vessel to transit the Wolfe Island Canal, though too large for regular service.
- 1865: Laid up due to a broken shaft during the summer.
- 1868: Upgraded with a new main deck and expanded saloon to enhance passenger service.
- 1871: Converted into a towboat after being sold to Calvin & Breck.
- 1885: Retired and likely scuttled after decades of service.
The Bay of Quinte stands as a reminder of the critical role that steam-powered vessels played in connecting communities and facilitating commerce across the Great Lakes during the 19th century.
