[a] ALCIOPE, [b] Stmr. UNITED KINGDOM, [c] Schr. BIRMINGHAM.
The Mills record provides information about the vessel known as Alciope, Mills Number 001490. It was a paddle wheel vessel built in Niagara, Ontario, Canada, in 1828. The original owner was Robert Hamilton, a prominent figure from Queenston, Ontario. The vessel underwent significant changes throughout its history.
In 1832, the Alciope was rebuilt in Queenston, Ontario, with an official number change. It retained its paddle wheel propulsion and saw modifications in its dimensions, measuring approximately 140 feet in length and 48 feet in width. The rebuild increased the vessel’s tonnage, although the exact figure is unknown. The changes were accompanied by a new official name, the United Kingdom.
However, the United Kingdom’s operation was short-lived. In 1835, the vessel met its demise when it wrecked in Oswego, New York, resulting in its closure. The wreck occurred on November 11, 1835. The vessel was subsequently rebuilt as a schooner named Birmingham during the winter of 1834-1835.
The Alciope/United Kingdom/Birmingham had an interesting history of ownership changes. It was initially owned by R. Hamilton and A. Heron before being sold to H. Smith in 1835. The vessel’s construction in Niagara faced some challenges, including a delay of ten days due to being stuck on the ways during its launch. The Alciope/United Kingdom/Birmingham featured an engine originally sourced from the vessel Frontenac, manufactured by Boulton & Watt of London, England. The engine was later rebuilt by J.D. Ward in Montreal.
The vessel underwent notable modifications during its lifespan. The rebuild in Queenston in 1832 brought about significant changes in appearance. The gentlemen’s cabin was transformed into a ladies’ cabin, and a new gentlemen’s cabin was added on deck, featuring 16 staterooms. The dining room was extended to 50 feet, and the vessel even included two baths. The Alciope/United Kingdom/Birmingham received new engines, supplied by Drennan & Graham of Cincinnati, Ohio, measuring 24×72. The reconstruction also involved changes to the hull, converting it into a schooner named Birmingham.
There were plans to introduce a new boat on Lake Erie, owned by a British company. It would have been the first Canadian-owned vessel on the lake, as the existing boats were exclusively operated by the American side. It was proposed to use the engine from the Alciope, and a new high-pressure engine was being prepared in the United States, promising increased speed for the vessel.
Various newspapers reported on the vessel’s launches, repairs, and sales during its lifetime. The Alciope was described as a beautiful craft, while the Birmingham (formerly the United Kingdom) encountered an unfortunate incident when it was driven from its moorings at Oswego and struck shoals. The vessel’s wreck resulted in significant loss and damage.
The Mills record provides insight into the journey of the Alciope/United Kingdom/Birmingham, showcasing its transformations, challenges, and ultimate fate. From its beginnings as a paddle wheel vessel to its reconstruction as a schooner, the vessel played a role in the maritime history of the region, leaving a mark through its various names and ownership changes
