The Trade Wind, a schooner, was registered in 1885 with a port of registry in St. Catharines, Ontario. It was built in Port Hope, Ontario, and had a net tonnage of 181. However, on January 14, 1887, the ship was transferred to Whitby, Ontario. Its official number was 88637.
In 1909, a tragic event occurred when the Trade Wind caught fire and burnt in Kingston Harbour on April 5. This incident led to the closure of its registry on March 30, 1911. The loss of the vessel was a significant event.
The Trade Wind encountered various other incidents throughout its history. In April 1877, strong winds and hail caused damage to the ship when it ran against a dock, resulting in a hole in its starboard side. Another misfortune struck in April 1909 when the schooner caught fire at the Kingston and Pembroke wharf while preparing to clear for Oswego. The fire caused a loss of $1,500, with partial insurance coverage.
Additionally, the Trade Wind faced challenges during its voyages. In October 1873, it lost its rudder while carrying iron ore from Cobourg to Cleveland. The revenue cutter Commodore Perry had to tow the disabled vessel to Erie. Another incident occurred in 1869 when the Trade Wind lost its jibboom due to a collision in Chicago.
The Trade Wind’s launch in Colborne, C.W., in June 1853 was a momentous occasion. The vessel, owned by J.M. Grover, was the first to be built at that location. The launch attracted a crowd of two to three thousand people, including many ladies who presented Mr. Grover with a beautiful flag for the ship. The builder, Mr. Peter Lamoree, received praise for his skill and the successful launch. The Trade Wind was described as a beautiful craft, a credit to its owner and the skilled shipbuilder.
Despite its various encounters with mishaps and incidents, the Trade Wind played a significant role in trade, particularly between Whitby and Colborne. It served as a symbol of maritime commerce and the expertise of those involved in its construction and operation.
