A Remarkable Schooner of the Great Lakes
The Cataraqui was a schooner built in 1857 and met its tragic fate in 1864 during a severe storm on Lake Ontario. Despite its untimely demise, the Cataraqui had a rich history, serving as an important vessel for trade and transportation on the Great Lakes. This article explores the construction, features, and final moments of the Cataraqui, shedding light on its significance in maritime history.
The Cataraqui was constructed in 1857 by Augustus Labber at the Lachine Canal above St Gabriels Lock. This two-masted wooden schooner was built with care and precision, measuring approximately 109 feet in length, 20 feet in width, and 9 feet in depth. With a gross tonnage of 176, the Cataraqui was a formidable vessel that could carry a significant cargo.
Owned by Mary Whitby from Beamsville, Ontario, the Cataraqui primarily operated in the saltwater trade. In its early years, it traveled between Kingston, England, and Ireland, possibly being spars and rigged at Quebec. The ship played a crucial role in connecting Upper Canada (now Ontario) to international markets, showcasing the region’s potential for shipbuilding and trade.
The launch of the Cataraqui was a momentous occasion for the shipbuilding industry in Kingston. Captain Robert Gaskin, the visionary behind the vessel, laid its keel at the Kingston Marine Railway shipyard. The ship’s launch was delayed due to inclement weather but eventually took place on a beautiful day in May 1854. The event drew a large crowd, and Captain Gaskin was presented with a set of colors for the ship. The Cataraqui was praised for its magnificent construction and its potential to boost trade and prosperity in the region.
Following its launch, the Cataraqui embarked on its maiden voyage, transporting cargo, including staves, from Kingston to Liverpool, England. The ship’s success led to plans for the construction of another vessel in Kingston, emphasizing the city’s growing reputation as a shipbuilding port. The Cataraqui’s voyages between Canadian ports and across the Atlantic demonstrated the capabilities of ships built on the Great Lakes and their ability to compete with those constructed elsewhere.
On September 30, 1864, tragedy struck the Cataraqui during a violent storm off Presqu’isle, Brighton, Ontario. Bound for Oswego, New York, from Hamilton, Ontario, the schooner foundered in the gale, succumbing to the forces of nature. Despite the valiant efforts of the crew, the ship sank, with no loss of life reported. The exact cargo carried by the Cataraqui during its final voyage remains undisclosed, but it was estimated to be worth $6000.
The Cataraqui’s legacy lies not only in its tragic end but also in its contribution to maritime history and the development of the Great Lakes region. The vessel’s construction and successful voyages exemplified the potential for shipbuilding and trade in Kingston and other ports along the Great Lakes. The Cataraqui serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by sailors and the unpredictable nature of the vast inland seas.
The Cataraqui, a remarkable schooner of the Great Lakes, had a short but impactful history. From its construction and launch to its final voyage and tragic loss, the vessel played a significant role in connecting Upper Canada to global markets and establishing Kingston as a prominent shipbuilding port. The story of the Cataraqui is a testament to the resilience and determination of sailors
