HIGHLANDER

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #

SITE DESCRIPTION

The wreck of the sidewheeler steamship HIGHLANDER lies in shallow water near Garden Island, Lake Ontario. The site is at a depth of only 10 feet, making it highly accessible for divers, snorkelers, and even those interested in shallow water exploration. The wreck is part of the historical maritime landscape of Garden Island, which was a significant shipbuilding and shipping hub in the 19th century.

HISTORY

The HIGHLANDER was a steam-powered sidewheeler constructed for the Calvin & Breck company. It played a versatile role, serving not only as a commercial vessel but also as a gunboat during the Fenian invasion scare in 1867. The vessel measured 179 feet in length, making it a sizable steamship for its time.

On the night of December 19, 1871, the HIGHLANDER was tragically destroyed by fire while moored at Garden Island for the winter, alongside the steamship HERCULES. The fire broke out around ten o’clock and was first noticed by Mr. Watt, a resident shoemaker on board the HIGHLANDER. Despite efforts to contain the blaze, both vessels were completely consumed by the flames. The fire was fueled by strong winds, making it impossible to save either ship.

Tragically, Charles Kelley, a recent arrival on the HIGHLANDER, lost his life in the fire. Kelley was the only person on board at the time, and it is believed that the fire started in the stove in his sleeping quarters. Despite the best efforts of the local fire brigade and the arrival of steamers Watertown and Pierrepont from Kingston, the vessels were uninsured and the financial loss was significant, estimated to be between $13,000 and $25,000.

After the fire, the remains of the HIGHLANDER were left in the “graveyard” behind Garden Island, where they were eventually scuttled.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The HIGHLANDER was scuttled near Garden Island after being destroyed by fire in 1871. The remains of the vessel now lie in shallow waters, where they have become an important historical site. The wreck is a tangible reminder of the maritime history of Lake Ontario and the challenges faced by steamships in the 19th century.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

There are no specific Notices to Mariners related to the HIGHLANDER wreck, but as with all shallow wrecks, divers should be cautious of potential hazards such as sharp objects, entanglements, and reduced visibility due to sediment disturbance.

LOCATED BY & DATE

The wreck of the HIGHLANDER has been known to local divers and maritime historians for many years. Its shallow depth and proximity to Garden Island make it a well-known site in the area.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

The wreck of the HIGHLANDER is accessible to divers and snorkelers due to its shallow depth of 10 feet. Much of the vessel’s structure, including the remains of the sidewheels, can still be observed, offering a unique exploration opportunity. The site is ideal for educational dives, underwater photography, and historical research, particularly for those interested in the maritime history of the Great Lakes.

3DModel by 3DShipwrecks.org #

RESOURCES & LINKS

1. Maritime History of the Great Lakes – HIGHLANDER: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
2. Wrecksite Database – HIGHLANDER: Wrecksite Database
3. Great Lakes Shipwreck Research: Great Lakes Shipwreck Research
4. The Archaeology of Watercraft Abandonment: Watercraft Abandonment

KEYWORDS

• HIGHLANDER, Sidewheeler, Steamship, Garden Island, Lake Ontario, Maritime History, Great Lakes, Shipwreck, Fire, Fenian Invasion.

ANALYSIS The HIGHLANDER represents a significant chapter in the maritime history of Lake Ontario, particularly in its dual role as a commercial vessel and a gunboat during a period of military tension. The tragic fire that led to its destruction underscores the risks associated with 19th-century steam navigation. The wreck, now lying in shallow water, provides a valuable opportunity for divers and historians to explore and document a vessel that played a vital role in the Great Lakes region. The HIGHLANDER’s story is a reminder of the challenges and dangers faced by those who worked on the water during this era.