History #
The ISABELLA AINSLIE was a schooner made of wood. Unfortunately, specific information regarding its build specifications, such as its dimensions or official number, is not provided in the available information.
On December 28, 1861, the ISABELLA AINSLIE encountered a storm and suffered a loss in the Georgian Bay, Lake Huron. The vessel was located approximately 7 miles north of the Limestone Islands when it partially capsized and was driven ashore on a rocky reef.
Despite the challenging situation, there were no reported casualties among the crew. The captain of the vessel, Captain Whittey, requested that the bay where the boat went ashore be renamed “St. Margaret’s Bay” in honor of his wife, who demonstrated remarkable composure and presence of mind during the incident.
The ISABELLA AINSLIE was carrying lumber at the time of the accident. There was hope that the vessel could be released in the following spring, and efforts were made by the captain and crew to prevent further damage and preserve the ship.
Additional details or the ultimate fate of the ISABELLA AINSLIE beyond the hope of salvage in the spring are not provided in the available information.
