Site Description #
- River Barge
- 136ft 41m Lenghts
- N 43.84271 W 76.32863
History #
This vessel, with a rich history spanning from 1883 to 1908, showcased impressive dimensions and capacities. Join us as we explore its construction, ownership transitions, and the events that shaped its maritime legacy.
Built by Henry Roney on Garden Island, Ontario, in 1870, the ONONDAGA river barge possessed a distinctive round stern and stood as a testament to fine craftsmanship. With a gross tonnage of 364.01 and a register tonnage of 320, it measured 136.9′ in length. Capable of carrying up to 20,000 bushels of cargo, this barge played a crucial role in the transportation of goods on the waterways.
Over the years, the ONONDAGA experienced fluctuations in ratings and valuations. In 1874, it received a rating of 1, valued at $9,500, which increased to $7,800 in 1878. By 1890, its rating was adjusted to B11⁄2, with a valuation of $4,000.
Originally under the ownership of Calvin & Breck, the ONONDAGA encountered its fair share of challenges and notable events. On November 3, 1876, while being towed by the American tug W.M. GARDNER (U 80279, 107 tons new measurement), the barge ran aground on the Galoo Island Shoal in the northeast corner of Lake Ontario. It was en route to Montreal with a cargo of coal at the time.
In 1878, the ONONDAGA became a part of St. Lawrence & Chicago Forwarding, and in 1880, it was among the seven barges involved when the steamer BOHEMIAN broke the gate of Lock Two in the Lachine Canal. A period of rebuilding ensued, resulting in the barge receiving an official number between 1882 and 1883.
In 1883, the ONONDAGA came under the ownership of Montreal Transportation Co., following their acquisition of St. Lawrence and Chicago Forwarding Co. The barge found new purpose in 1884 when it was chartered to the George Hall Coal Co. of Prescott, Ontario, fulfilling a coal contract between Oswego, New York, and Montreal. Eventually, the George Hall Coal Co. purchased the barge outright.
From 1887 to 1904, the ONONDAGA was owned by the St. Lawrence & Canada Forwarding Co. of Prescott, under the ownership of R. McCarthy. However, tragedy struck on November 5, 1907, off Stoney Point in Lake Ontario, when the barge, laden with coal, foundered under the ownership of Canadian Towing & Transfer (A. Lemay) of Montreal.
With a heavy heart, the registry of the ONONDAGA was officially closed on January 9, 1908, marking the end of an era.
