IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
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VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Iceberg was a brig, a type of two-masted sailing vessel commonly used in the mid-19th century for various maritime purposes, including exploration and cargo transport. The vessel was specifically constructed for Arctic service, designed to withstand the harsh and icy conditions of northern waters. Its wooden hull was heavily reinforced, making it suitable for the perilous journeys it was intended to undertake.
HISTORY #
The Iceberg was built in 1856 in Kingston, Ontario, under the ownership of Dr. John Rae, a notable figure from Hamilton, Ontario, who was deeply involved in the exploration of the Arctic. The vessel was designed with a singular purpose: to venture into the Arctic in search of Sir John Franklin’s lost expedition, a mission that had captivated the world at the time.
As a brig, the Iceberg was equipped with a single deck and two masts, giving it the ability to sail efficiently while also being robust enough to handle the extreme conditions it was expected to face in the Arctic.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
Unfortunately, the Iceberg never fulfilled its intended purpose of Arctic exploration. On August 17, 1857, the vessel met a tragic end when it foundered near Oswego, New York, in Lake Ontario. The Iceberg was on a voyage from Cleveland, Ohio, to Kingston, Ontario, carrying a cargo of coal when it encountered treacherous conditions on the lake.
The severity of the weather and the unforgiving nature of Lake Ontario led to the vessel’s sinking, resulting in the loss of all hands on board. This devastating incident marked the premature end of the Iceberg and its ambitious mission to explore the Arctic.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
There is no specific modern record of the wreck’s discovery or identification, so no individuals or dates are associated with locating the remains of the Iceberg.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the wreck of the Iceberg.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Great Lakes Ships
