IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The Alberta, originally known as Puritan, was a wooden paddlewheel tug built in 1888 by W. Evans in Deseronto, Ontario. It was a centerwheel paddle tug, a design where the paddlewheel is located centrally along the hull, providing propulsion. The vessel was 65 feet in length and played a significant role in local transportation and logistics. It was powered by an 8×24 engine manufactured by Polson Iron Works in Toronto.
HISTORY: #
The Alberta had a relatively short but impactful service life. Built in 1888, the vessel was part of the fleet operated by The Rathbun Co., a prominent company based in Deseronto, Ontario. The Alberta served as a centerwheel ferry, transporting goods and passengers across the Bay of Quinte and the surrounding areas.
On July 21, 1899, tragedy struck when the Alberta sank at Pyner’s Point in the Bay of Quinte, Lake Ontario. The sinking of the vessel was recorded without much detail, simply noted as “sunk.” Fortunately, no loss of life was reported, and the vessel’s engines were later salvaged. The exact cause of the sinking remains somewhat mysterious, but it marked the end of the Alberta‘s service.
The Alberta was officially listed in the last entry of vessels on the Registry Books of the Dominion of Canada on December 31, 1898, emphasizing its importance within the Rathbun Co.’s operations. The vessel was closely related to the Prince Edward Ferry, which was likely its sister ship.
The Mills Listing corroborates these details, noting that the Alberta was built as the Puritan in Deseronto, with the same specifications recorded in the official registry.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
The Alberta foundered and was lost to the waters of the Bay of Quinte on July 21, 1899. Despite the loss of the vessel, the crew and passengers were able to escape, and the ship’s engines were recovered from the wreck site. Today, the wreck lies at a depth of 100 feet, accessible to divers and of interest to maritime historians.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) directly related to the Alberta wreck site. However, due to the depth and the nature of the wreck, divers should exercise caution when exploring the site.
LOCATED BY & DATE: #
The wreck of the Alberta has been known for some time, and its location near Pyner’s Point in the Bay of Quinte is well documented. The site remains a popular spot for divers, offering a glimpse into the past of Ontario’s maritime history.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- Mills Listing for PURITAN: Great Lakes Ships
- Photo Galleries: Tom Rutledge 2001 Collection, Matthew Charlesworth 2022 Collection
Alberta, Puritan, Paddlewheel Tug, Lake Ontario Shipwreck, Bay of Quinte, 1899 Shipwreck, Canadian Maritime History, Rathbun Company.
ANALYSIS: #
The Alberta is a fascinating relic of the late 19th century, reflecting the technological advancements and challenges of the era. Its sinking in 1899 underscores the risks faced by paddlewheel vessels navigating the Great Lakes. The wreck provides valuable insights into the design and operation of such vessels and serves as a reminder of the region’s rich maritime history. The continued interest in the Alberta from divers and historians alike ensures that the story of this paddle tug will not be forgotten.
