VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The Fleet Wing was a schooner, a type of sailing vessel with two or more masts. Schooners were popular for their speed and ease of handling, making them ideal for coastal trade and transportation on the Great Lakes.
HISTORY: #
The Fleet Wing was built in 1863 by Dearborn and Quick in Wilson, New York. It was operated primarily on Lake Ontario. Tragically, on the morning of August 22, 1863, the Fleet Wing capsized during a sudden squall while sailing on the lake. Captain Quick and his crew managed to escape by boarding a yawl boat. However, the captain’s wife, child, and an unidentified cook, who were in the cabin at the time, were unable to escape and drowned.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
After the incident, the capsized Fleet Wing was discovered and righted. The vessel was then towed towards Oswego for repairs. However, it grounded on a bar while entering Cobourg, raising concerns about further damage or destruction due to an ensuing gale.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
None currently available or in effect related to this wreck.
LOCATED BY & DATE: #
Historical records and reports from the period, particularly from the Buffalo Daily Courier dated August 26, 1863, provide details on the incident and recovery efforts.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY: #
The specific condition of the wreck following the grounding and gale is not well documented. The wreck’s accessibility for diving or research is unclear, and further assessment would be required to determine its current state.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Buffalo Daily Courier, August 26, 1863
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- Great Lakes Ships
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
