SODUS

Maritime Disasters at Port Ontario: The Storm of #

Port Ontario, a key harbor on the eastern edge of Lake Ontario, was recently the site of several maritime incidents that highlighted the dangers of navigating the Great Lakes without adequate safety measures. In a powerful storm, two schooners were wrecked, and a steamer narrowly avoided disaster, all of which could have been mitigated with proper navigational aids.

The Wrecks of Schooners Sodus and Pigeon #

During the recent storm, the schooners Sodus and Pigeon both met with catastrophic fates near Port Ontario. These vessels were essential to the trade and transport operations in the region, but the storm proved too fierce for them to withstand.

• Schooner Sodus: The Sodus was en route from Port Ontario to Genesee, carrying a valuable cargo of bark and wood. However, the vessel went ashore approximately three miles north of Big Sandy Creek, where it was completely wrecked. The storm’s force, combined with the treacherous conditions near the shore, led to the total loss of both the vessel and its cargo. Fortunately, the crew was saved, avoiding what could have been a fatal disaster.

• Schooner Pigeon: The Pigeon was traveling from Oswego with plans to load apples at Nine Mile Point before heading to Chaumont. However, it too fell victim to the storm, going aground about three miles south of Big Sandy Creek. Like the Sodus, the Pigeon and its cargo were entirely lost. Despite the total destruction of the schooner, the crew members were also saved.

These twin disasters underline the severe risks posed by storms on Lake Ontario, particularly when vessels lack adequate navigational guidance.

The Steamer Express’s Harrowing Journey #

The steamer Express also faced significant challenges during the storm. Departing from Port Ontario bound for Oswego, the Express was forced to turn back due to the increasingly dangerous conditions. However, the absence of a functioning harbor light at Port Ontario left the steamer struggling to find its way back to safety.

After spending hours navigating the tumultuous lake waters without the guidance of the harbor light, the Expresseventually made its way to Oswego, arriving at 2 o’clock the next morning. The crew’s survival in such dire circumstances was fortunate, but the incident raised serious concerns about the safety measures—or lack thereof—at Port Ontario.

Criticism of Navigational Aids at Port Ontario #

In the wake of these incidents, the captains and crews of the Sodus and Pigeon directed sharp criticism toward the lack of a proper harbor light at Port Ontario. They argued that the absence of this essential navigational aid directly contributed to the wrecks, as it left them without crucial guidance during the storm.

The criticism centered on the actions of a Mr. Cobb, who was blamed for the absence of a functional light. The cost of maintaining such a light—estimated at around $800 per year—was relatively low compared to the significant losses incurred from these shipwrecks. Additionally, the expenditure of approximately $300 per month on a revenue cutter was seen as inefficient when a simple and necessary light could have prevented the accidents.

These incidents underscored the importance of proper lighting and navigational aids in ensuring the safety of vessels and crews. The discussion also highlighted the broader issue of resource allocation, with calls for a reevaluation of priorities to better protect maritime operations in the region.

The Importance of Proper Navigational Aids #

The storm and subsequent wrecks at Port Ontario serve as a stark reminder of the critical role that navigational aids play in maritime safety. Harbor lights, buoys, and other markers are not just conveniences; they are essential tools that help mariners safely navigate treacherous waters, especially during storms and other adverse conditions.

The recent events at Port Ontario have prompted renewed calls for the installation and maintenance of these aids, ensuring that future vessels are not left vulnerable to the same dangers. The tragedies of the Sodus and Pigeon, along with the near-miss of the Express, make it clear that these investments are not just necessary but urgent.

References #

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes – Offers historical context and records related to shipwrecks and incidents on Lake Ontario. Available at: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Historical Newspapers – Contemporary reports on maritime incidents in the region, providing detailed accounts of the storm’s impact on Port Ontario. Access via services like Newspapers.com
• Great Lakes Shipwreck Preservation Society – Provides information on shipwrecks and maritime safety initiatives on the Great Lakes.
• Local Historical Societies – Archives and resources from regional historical societies may offer additional insights into the incidents at Port Ontario.