#
Vessel Name: POWHATTAN
Vessel Type: Grain Schooner
Built: Exact year unknown, but likely mid-19th century
Dimensions: Typical grain schooner, likely around 100-120 feet in length
Operational Area: Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River
Overview: The POWHATTAN was a grain schooner that operated primarily in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River region during the mid to late 19th century. Schooners like the POWHATTAN were critical to the economic development of the region, serving as essential carriers of bulk goods, particularly grain, which was a vital commodity for both domestic consumption and export.
Operational History: The POWHATTAN was known for transporting wheat and other grains from agricultural regions to ports along the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. These vessels were the backbone of the grain trade, which was crucial for feeding growing populations in urban centers and for supporting export markets.
The POWHATTAN‘s typical voyages involved navigating the often unpredictable and treacherous waters of the Great Lakes. While specific details about the ship’s construction and early operational history are scarce, it is clear that the POWHATTAN was part of a fleet of similar vessels that played a vital role in the regional economy.
Final Voyage: On October 20, 1873, the POWHATTAN was caught in a severe gale while transporting a cargo of wheat to Ogdensburg. The storm, which wreaked havoc across the Great Lakes, proved too powerful for the schooner. Despite the crew’s efforts to manage the situation, the POWHATTAN was overwhelmed by the storm and ultimately sank in Alexandria Bay, St. Lawrence River. The vessel’s cargo of wheat was completely soaked and rendered worthless, marking a significant financial loss.
The sinking of the POWHATTAN during the 1873 gale is remembered as one of the many maritime tragedies that underscore the inherent risks of navigating the Great Lakes. The event also highlights the economic vulnerability of those who relied on maritime transport for their livelihoods.
