IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The C. Hickox was a wooden propeller-driven vessel constructed in 1873 in Black Creek, Ohio. Over its operational life, this versatile ship served multiple roles, from transporting lumber and brick to carrying coal across the Great Lakes. Known for its reliability, the C. Hickox was a vital part of the maritime trade that connected the bustling ports of the Great Lakes region.
Construction and Early Service #
The C. Hickox was built with the intention of serving the diverse and demanding needs of Great Lakes commerce. Its wooden hull and propeller-driven design made it well-suited for the transportation of bulk goods, a common requirement in the region during the late 19th century. In 1874, under the ownership of the Kelley Island Lime Company, the vessel was equipped with a new wheel, enhancing its propulsion capabilities. This modification underscored the importance of maintaining and upgrading vessels to keep pace with the evolving demands of the shipping industry.
For many years, the C. Hickox was involved in the lumber trade, a major industry in the Great Lakes region. The ship frequently carried lumber from ports such as Muskegon to larger markets like Chicago. As the demand for different goods fluctuated, the C. Hickox adapted, transporting brick under various ownerships in Detroit, Muskegon, and Milwaukee. The vessel’s ability to shift roles based on market demands highlighted its versatility and importance to the region’s economy.
Operational History #
Throughout its operational life, the C. Hickox changed hands multiple times, reflecting the dynamic nature of the maritime industry at the time. By 1906, the vessel was owned by Edward Phillips of Saint Clair, Michigan, who used it primarily for transporting brick. The vessel’s robust design and reliable performance made it a valuable asset in the competitive shipping industry of the Great Lakes.
Despite its successful service, the C. Hickox was not immune to the dangers of maritime operations. On December 2, 1906, the vessel embarked on what would be its final voyage. Loaded with coal, the C. Hickox set sail from Oswego, New York, bound for Belleville, Ontario. However, as the ship traversed the waters of Lake Ontario, disaster struck. A devastating fire broke out onboard, quickly engulfing the vessel.
Final Voyage and Tragic End #
The fire that consumed the C. Hickox was catastrophic. Despite the crew’s efforts to control the blaze, the flames proved too powerful, forcing the vessel to strand on Main Duck Island. The ship and its cargo of coal were declared a total loss, with the estimated financial damage reaching $8,000—a significant sum at the time.
The wreckage of the C. Hickox, including its boiler, remained on Main Duck Island for decades, serving as a grim reminder of the tragedy. The vessel’s final resting place is partially on shore, making it accessible to visitors without the need for mooring. The remains of the C. Hickox offer a tangible connection to the dangers and challenges faced by mariners on the Great Lakes during the early 20th century.
Ownership Timeline #
- 1874: Owned by the Kelley Island Lime Company, with Charles Hickox as president. The vessel underwent modifications, including the installation of a new wheel.
- Subsequent Ownership: The vessel was owned by various individuals and companies in Detroit, Muskegon, and Milwaukee, reflecting its adaptable role in the maritime industry.
- Final Ownership: Owned by Edward Phillips in Saint Clair, Michigan, where it was used to transport brick.
Notable Incidents #
- The C. Hickox played a crucial role in transporting lumber and brick across the Great Lakes, adapting to the evolving needs of its owners.
- On December 2, 1906, the vessel suffered a catastrophic fire while en route from Oswego to Belleville, leading to its stranding on Main Duck Island and the loss of its cargo.
Final Disposition #
The C. Hickox met its end on December 2, 1906, when it was stranded and lost on Main Duck Island in Lake Ontario due to a fire. The wreckage, including the vessel’s boiler, remained visible on the island for many years, serving as a somber reminder of the vessel’s tragic demise.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the wreck of the C. Hickox.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck is located on Main Duck Island, Lake Ontario, at the coordinates N43 55.85 W76 38.38.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The wreckage of the C. Hickox is partially on shore at Main Duck Island, making it accessible without the need for mooring. The remains include the boiler and other parts of the vessel, which have become part of the island’s landscape over the years.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Great Lakes Ships
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Burger Boat Company
- Wisconsin Shipwrecks
C. Hickox, propeller, shipwreck, Lake Ontario, Main Duck Island, maritime history, Great Lakes, fire, coal transport
Conclusion #
The C. Hickox’s history reflects the typical life cycle of Great Lakes vessels in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where ships often changed hands and roles multiple times throughout their service. Originally built in Ohio, the vessel found its way into Canadian waters, serving various industrial purposes. The ship’s tragic end in 1906, following a devastating fire, underscores the dangers faced by maritime vessels of the era. Today, the remains of the C. Hickox on Main Duck Island serve as a historical artifact, offering a glimpse into the past and the perilous nature of Great Lakes navigation.