EUREKA C46229

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The Eureka was a wooden schooner built in 1858 in Wilson, New York, using locally sourced timber. The schooner was designed with versatility in mind, initially serving as a transporter of general cargo between the South and North Shores of Lake Ontario. The schooner’s design was typical of the period, with a robust wooden hull and impressive masts, allowing it to navigate the challenging conditions of the Great Lakes. In 1874, the Eureka was re-registered under the Canadian flag and repurposed for the coal trade, specifically connecting Kingston, Ontario, and Oswego, New York.

HISTORY #

Construction and Early Service: #

The Eureka was constructed by J.W. Barnes in Wilson, New York, in 1858. It was initially employed to transport general cargo across Lake Ontario, operating between the U.S. and Canadian shores. The vessel was enrolled in Lewiston, New York, and later transferred to Toledo, Ohio, in 1860.

Ownership Timeline: #

• 1863: Owned by King & Steel of Toledo, Ohio.
• 1864: Ownership transferred to Giles & Sylvester, Montreal, Quebec.
• 1874: Re-registered under the Canadian flag and owned by William Nickle, Kingston, Ontario, marking the vessel’s transition to the coal trade.
• 1876: Acquired by Williams and others, Montreal, Quebec.
• 1878: Owned by A. Cantin, Montreal, Quebec.
• 1883: Final owners were Chambers & Chadwick, Kingston, Ontario.

Role in Maritime Commerce: #

The Eureka’s role evolved from general cargo transportation to a specialized coal-trading schooner as regional demands shifted. The vessel’s adaptability made it a valuable asset for its various owners, reflecting the changing economic needs of the Great Lakes region during the latter half of the 19th century.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

On November 26, 1883, while navigating near Pigeon Island at the eastern end of Lake Ontario, the Eureka encountered a severe storm. Despite the schooner’s sturdy construction, it could not withstand the intensity of the storm. The crew was forced to abandon the vessel as it began to sink. The Eureka now lies at the bottom of Lake Ontario, resting at a depth of 121 feet.

LOCATED BY & DATE #

The exact date of the discovery of the Eureka’s wreck is not well-documented, but it has since been located and is a known site for divers and historians.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) currently in effect for the Eureka wreck site. However, the site is situated at a significant depth of 121 feet, making it accessible only to experienced divers.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #

The wreck of the Eureka lies in 121 feet of water near Pigeon Island. The site is relatively well-preserved, offering insights into mid-19th-century shipbuilding techniques. The wreck has been documented through video surveys and photography, providing a valuable resource for understanding the maritime history of the Great Lakes. Due to the depth and the potential hazards of cold water and strong currents, this site is recommended for advanced divers.

Photo Gallery 2022 Matthew Charlesworth CC #

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Shotline Diving Video Survey – Youtube #

RESOURCES & LINKS #

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Offers historical records and context about the Eureka and other Great Lakes vessels.
• 3D Shipwrecks: Provides detailed surveys and visual documentation of the Eureka wreck site.
• Great Lakes Ships: A database of vessels that operated on the Great Lakes, including the Eureka.

CONCLUSION #

The Eureka stands as a significant example of the adaptability and resilience of Great Lakes vessels during the 19th century. From a general cargo schooner to a coal transporter, the Eureka’s service history reflects the dynamic economic environment of the time. Its final voyage and subsequent sinking near Pigeon Island underscore the ever-present risks of navigating the Great Lakes, where even the most robust vessels were vulnerable to the forces of nature. Today, the wreck of the Eureka provides a fascinating window into the past, preserving the legacy of this versatile schooner for future generations.

Eureka shipwreck

Great Lakes schooners

Lake Ontario wrecks

19th-century maritime history

Pigeon Island wreck

Great Lakes navigation