Identification & Site Information #
Vessel Type Description: #
The ALBATROSS was a wooden, two-masted schooner built for general cargo transportation on the Great Lakes. Schooners like the ALBATROSS were a common sight during the late 19th century, renowned for their adaptability and efficiency in navigating the often-turbulent waters of the Great Lakes. The vessel’s dimensions were modest, with a length of 92 feet, a beam of 20.9 feet, and a depth of 8.9 feet. It had a gross tonnage of 142.5 tons.
History: #
Built in 1867 by Hiram Conkrite in Oakville, Ontario, the ALBATROSS embarked on its voyages primarily as a cargo carrier. The vessel changed ownership several times, with its last recorded owner being Thomas Hyden of Port Hope, Ontario. The ALBATROSS was involved in the transportation of goods such as shingles and lumber, crucial to the economy of the region at the time.
On November 7, 1880, the ALBATROSS faced one of the most severe challenges in its maritime career. While on a voyage from Port Hope to Oswego, New York, the vessel encountered a fierce storm on Lake Ontario. The storm damaged the schooner’s rigging and rudder, leaving it at the mercy of the elements. With no means to navigate, the ALBATROSS ran aground near Wellington, Ontario.
The conditions were dire; the rigging was encased in about 150 tons of ice, making rescue and salvage operations incredibly difficult. Several attempts to refloat the ship were made but ultimately failed due to the relentless weather. Fortunately, there was no loss of life during the incident, a small mercy in what could have been a far more tragic situation.
Final Disposition: #
After the storm, the ALBATROSS was abandoned on the shore near Wellington, Ontario. The location of the wreck was identified as Salmon Point in Prince Edward County. The vessel was stripped of any valuable materials, and the remains were left to the elements. Over time, the ALBATROSS became one with the landscape, a forgotten relic of a bygone era.
Current Condition & Accessibility: #
The wreck of the ALBATROSS remains in shallow waters near Salmon Point, Prince Edward County. While the exact condition of the wreck is not detailed in available sources, it is assumed to have deteriorated significantly due to exposure and the passage of time. The site may hold interest for history enthusiasts and divers, though accessibility would depend on the current state of the shoreline and water levels.
Resources & Links: #
Keywords: #
Schooner, Lake Ontario, Shipwreck, Prince Edward County, Great Lakes, Maritime History, ALBATROSS, Wellington, Salmon Point
Analysis: #
The story of the ALBATROSS reflects the challenges faced by mariners on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. The vessel’s fate, sealed by a storm and ice, is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of these vast inland seas. While the ALBATROSS may have been abandoned and forgotten, its story lives on, contributing to the rich maritime history of the region. The wreck at Salmon Point stands as a silent witness to the perils of early Great Lakes navigation.
