C.D. 110

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Other Names

RAPIDS QUEEN
COLUMBIAN
BROCKVILLE

The Propeller RAPIDS QUEEN, a vessel with a rich history, sailed the waters of North America throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries. Originally named COLUMBIAN, this steel-hulled propeller was built in 1892 in Chester, Pennsylvania. Throughout its existence, it underwent several rebuilds, ownership changes, and name alterations, making it a fascinating character in maritime history.

COLUMBIAN was officially launched in 1892 with a gross tonnage of 944 tons and dimensions of 175 feet in length, 33.5 feet in breadth, and 9 feet in depth. Its engines, measuring 12.5″, 19″, and 30″ by 15″, were capable of producing 96 horsepower. This vessel, sheathed in rock elm for protection during rapids navigation, initially served under the ownership of the Joy Line (Morgan Iron Works), based in New York City, New York.

One of the notable aspects of COLUMBIAN’s history was its navigation through the challenging Cedar Rapids on the St. Lawrence River in August 1892. This perilous journey demonstrated the vessel’s capabilities and marked the beginning of its association with rapids navigation.

In 1901, COLUMBIAN underwent its first significant rebuild, which was carried out in Sorel, Quebec, Canada. After the reconstruction, the vessel’s gross tonnage increased to 944 tons. In 1905, it was renamed BROCKVILLE.

In 1909, the vessel underwent another rebuild in Sorel, Quebec. Following this transformation, it was renamed RAPIDS QUEEN, officially registered in Montreal, Quebec. Its dimensions changed to 194.4 feet in length, 35.5 feet in breadth, and 8.8 feet in depth, with a gross tonnage of either 1307 or 1607 tons and a net tonnage of 770 tons. This marked a pivotal moment in the vessel’s history.

Over the years, RAPIDS QUEEN changed hands multiple times. It was owned by Richelieu & Ontario Navigation Co., Canada Steamship Lines, Dominion Towing & Salvage Co., and Sincennes-McNaughton Tugs. Its role varied from navigating the St. Lawrence River rapids to serving as a passenger vessel, and eventually to becoming a floating hotel in Morrisburg, Ontario.

RAPIDS QUEEN’s maritime journey eventually led to its retirement. It was laid up in Kingston, Ontario, in 1930, and later chartered as a hotel for a clinic’s patients. In 1938, it was sold to Canadian Dredge & Dock Co., Ltd., and converted into an oil bunkering barge under the name C.D. 110. This transformation was significant, as the vessel played a role in the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway, completed in 1959. Its final role was as a breakwater at Ward’s Island in Toronto Harbor, under the ownership of Queen City Yacht Club.

The life of the Propeller RAPIDS QUEEN, previously known as COLUMBIAN and BROCKVILLE, was one of transformations, challenges, and adaptability. From navigating rapids to becoming a part of Canada’s maritime history, this vessel left an indelible mark on the waters it sailed.