Identification & Site Information
Vessel Type Description The Trade Wind was a schooner, a type of sailing vessel that was commonly used in the 19th century for coastal and Great Lakes trade. Schooners are characterized by their fore-and-aft rigged sails on two or more masts, which made them highly maneuverable and suited for navigating the inland waterways of North America. The Trade Wind, built in 1853, exemplified the robust and versatile design of these vessels, which were the workhorses of maritime trade during this era.
History The Trade Wind was launched in June 1853 in Colborne, Canada West (now Ontario), and was the first vessel built in that location. The launch was a significant local event, attended by a large crowd, including ladies who presented the owner, J.M. Grover, with a flag. The ship was constructed by the skilled shipbuilder Peter Lamoree, who was praised for his craftsmanship.
Throughout its operational life, the Trade Wind encountered several significant incidents. In 1869, it lost its jibboom in a collision in Chicago, and in October 1873, it lost its rudder while carrying iron ore from Cobourg to Cleveland, necessitating a tow by the revenue cutter Commodore Perry to Erie. In April 1877, the ship suffered damage when it was driven against a dock by strong winds and hail, causing a hole in its starboard side.
The Trade Wind continued to be active in maritime trade, particularly between Whitby and Colborne. However, in April 1909, the vessel caught fire while at the Kingston and Pembroke wharf in Kingston Harbour, suffering significant damage. The fire caused a financial loss of $1,500, partially covered by insurance.
Final Disposition The Trade Wind met a tragic end on April 5, 1909, when it caught fire and was burned in Kingston Harbour. The severity of the damage led to the vessel’s registry being officially closed on March 30, 1911. The loss of the Trade Wind was a notable event, marking the end of its long and storied history on the Great Lakes.
NOTMARs & Advisories There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically concerning the Trade Windas the vessel is no longer in service and its final disposition was recorded over a century ago.
Located By & Date The final location of the Trade Wind is known to be Kingston Harbour, where it burned in April 1909. The exact location of the remnants, if any, is not detailed in available records.
Current Condition & Accessibility The Trade Wind was destroyed by fire in Kingston Harbour, and any remains are likely to be minimal or non-existent due to the nature of the fire. The site is not marked or accessible for diving or exploration.
Resources & Links
- Provincial Marine Vessels: Contains historical records of various vessels, including potential references to similar ships.
- Dolphin Aquatic Club Diving Sites: Relevant for exploring nearby underwater sites in the Kingston area.
Keywords Trade Wind, schooner, Great Lakes, Kingston Harbour, St. Catharines, Whitby, maritime trade, fire, shipwreck
Analysis The Trade Wind‘s history is a reflection of the challenges and hazards faced by maritime vessels operating on the Great Lakes in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its construction and launch in 1853 were significant milestones for the local community in Colborne, symbolizing the growth of maritime commerce in the region. Throughout its service, the Trade Wind experienced multiple incidents that highlight the perils of navigation and the resilience of such vessels. The schooner’s eventual destruction by fire in Kingston Harbour in 1909 marks a poignant end to its operational life, underscoring the vulnerability of wooden ships to fire—a common hazard of the era. Despite its loss, the Trade Windremains a notable example of the schooners that were vital to the economic development of Ontario’s coastal towns.
