- Steamer
- 70ffw 22m
- 90ft Length
- Snake Island, Lake Ontario
- N 44’12.239 W76’31.578
Chronological History #
The Varuna, a wooden screw steamer, was officially registered in Picton, Ontario, on May 20, 1880. This vessel was constructed in Wolfe Island, Ontario, and had a gross tonnage of 134 and a net tonnage of 85.
Throughout its existence, the ownership of the Varuna underwent several changes. Initially, on March 26, 1888, it was owned by Thomas J. Porte, a resident of Picton. Subsequently, on April 5, 1893, ownership transferred to W.E. VanVlack and William B. Cooper. Another change occurred on October 3, 1893, when William B. Cooper, Alfred Hicks from Hallowell Township, and Reuben Norcross from Trenton became the owners. The vessel remained under their ownership until November 2, 1898, when Hicks and Norcross assumed sole ownership.
On September 14, 1904, the Varuna was acquired by Hicks and Cooper of Hallowell. However, this arrangement was short-lived, as on November 18, 1904, A. Hicks and J.E. Rathbun became the new owners. A subsequent change in ownership transpired on February 6, 1908, when W.B. Cooper and J.E. Rathbun, both based in Trenton, Ontario, took possession of the vessel.
On March 9, 1910, the Varuna came under the ownership of Quinte Navigation Co., Ltd., located in Picton. Later, on December 31, 1910, the Ontario & Quebec Navigation Co., Ltd. assumed ownership. Finally, on April 28, 1916, ownership of the Varuna was transferred to Canada Steamship Lines.
After years of service, the Varuna met its end when it was broken up in 1927. Its registration was officially removed on November 14, 1940, marking the end of its documented history.
