ECHO (1853, Schooner)
Identification & Site Information:
•Vessel Name: ECHO
•Year of Build: 1853
Construction and Ownership
•Built at: Port Nelson, Ontario
•Vessel Type: Schooner
•Number of Decks: 1
•Builder Name: Alex LeClair
•Original Owner: Robert Evans, Port Nelson, Ontario
Power and Masts
•Number of Masts: 2
Hull Dimensions
•Length: 49 feet (later rebuilt to 69 feet)
•Beam: 14.3 feet (later updated to 14.4 feet)
•Depth: 5.7 feet
•Tonnage (Old Style): 45 tons
Vessel Type
The Echo was a two-masted schooner built in 1853 for trade and transport across Lake Ontario. Schooners were popular during this time due to their versatility in navigating both large lakes and coastal waters. The Echo was relatively small but typical of vessels used for transporting goods such as lumber, plaster, and other cargo along the Great Lakes.
History
The Echo was built at Port Nelson, Ontario, and initially owned by Robert Evans. After its launch, the vessel was registered in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1855. Over its long career, the Echo saw many owners and underwent several rebuilds and repairs. In 1869, it was lengthened to 69 feet and owned by R. McSherry of Toronto. Despite these modifications, the Echo experienced multiple mishaps.
In 1861, the schooner was wrecked at Gull Harbor, and later, in 1869, it capsized off Genesee, Lake Ontario, but was recovered and rebuilt. Another notable incident occurred in November 1869 when the vessel ran ashore near Toronto while carrying a cargo of plaster. In 1874, the Echo was involved in a collision with the steamer Norseman near Charlotte, Lake Ontario. Despite these setbacks, the schooner continued to serve for many years, a testament to its sturdiness and the dedication of its various owners.
Final Disposition
The Echo was ultimately buried in 1920 during harbor improvement works in Toronto, Ontario, along Lake Ontario. This likely occurred as part of Toronto’s efforts to expand and modernize its harbor, which involved reclaiming land and filling in sections of the waterfront. The Echo, having outlived its usefulness, was likely sunk or scrapped and buried during these activities.
Located By & Date
The Echo has not been recovered, as it was buried beneath Toronto’s modern harborfront during the early 20th century. Given its final resting place under reclaimed land, it is unlikely that the wreck will be exposed or explored in the future.
Notmars & Advisories
There are no modern navigational hazards associated with the Echo, as it was buried as part of harbor improvements. However, divers and historians interested in Toronto’s maritime history may find references to its final location as part of historical records related to harbor expansion projects.
Resources & Links
For additional historical context and potential research avenues:
•Maritime History of the Great Lakes
The Echo serves as an example of the durable schooners that once plied the waters of Lake Ontario, enduring numerous accidents and rebuilds before being laid to rest beneath Toronto’s harbor
