RINGLEADER U110825

Identification & Site Information

The Ringleader was a steam screw vessel that played an integral part in the maritime activities of the St. Lawrence River during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Built in Alexandria Bay, New York, in 1889, the Ringleader had a dynamic history marked by multiple rebuilds, ownership changes, and a tragic end when it burned in 1917. Today, an unidentified wooden hull, likely the Ringleader, lies beneath the waters of Carnegie Bay, serving as a silent testament to the region’s rich maritime heritage.

Construction and Early History #

The Ringleader was originally constructed in Alexandria Bay, NY, in 1889, with the U.S. official number 110825. It was built as a scow sloop with a single mast, a plain head, and a square stern. The vessel measured 56.4 feet in length, 17.6 feet in beam, and had a depth of 5 feet, with a gross tonnage of 31.5 tons.

The vessel was initially owned by George Hoadley of Alexandria Bay and was first enrolled in Cape Vincent, New York, on June 25, 1889. The Ringleader served as a versatile workhorse on the St. Lawrence River, reflecting the bustling maritime activity of the time.

Rebuilds and Modifications #

Throughout its service life, the Ringleader underwent several significant rebuilds and ownership changes:

• 1893 Rebuild: The vessel was rebuilt as a steam barge in Alexandria Bay. This rebuild saw the Ringleaderincrease in size to 87.4 feet in length, 18 feet in beam, and 7 feet in depth, with a gross tonnage of 76.41 tons. The vessel retained its scow head and square stern design.

• 1896 Modifications: The Ringleader was further modified, including the addition of a plain head and round stern. The dimensions were increased to 108.4 feet in length, 18 feet in beam, and 7 feet in depth, with a gross tonnage of 96.73 tons.

• 1903 Rebuild: Another rebuild in Alexandria Bay expanded the vessel to 112.9 feet in length, 18 feet in beam, and 9 feet in depth, with a gross tonnage of 121 tons. This rebuild likely represented the final form of the Ringleaderbefore its tragic end.

Ownership of the vessel changed hands multiple times, with notable owners including Daniel Springer, Alfred A. Holmes, W.H. Consaul, and Franklin E. Wood, each contributing to the vessel’s storied history.

Final Fate #

On December 21, 1917, the Ringleader met its tragic end when it caught fire and burned at Alexandria Bay, NY. Remarkably, no lives were lost in the incident, but the vessel was destroyed. The wreckage was likely scuttled or left in the river, with its documents surrendered in Cape Vincent on September 30, 1921.

The Dive Site: Carnegie Bay #

In Carnegie Bay, Alexandria Bay, New York, lies an unidentified wooden hull wreck, which is believed to be the remains of the Ringleader. The wreck is situated in shallow waters, with depths ranging from 5 to 10 feet, making it accessible to divers and snorkelers alike.

Key Features of the Wreck:

• Dimensions: Approximately 110 feet in length and 18 feet in width.
• Notable Elements: A smoke stack is located at the northeast corner of the wreck, providing a significant point of reference.

The wreckage is scattered but remains a compelling site for maritime history enthusiasts. Divers exploring the wreck can observe the weathered remains of the wooden hull, tracing its contours and imagining the once-bustling activity that surrounded the Ringleader during its operational years.

Historical Significance #

The Ringleader was more than just a vessel; it was a crucial part of the St. Lawrence River’s maritime infrastructure, connecting communities and supporting trade and travel. Its history of rebuilds and modifications reflects the evolving needs of the region’s maritime industry during a period of significant economic and technological change.

The wreck in Carnegie Bay serves as a silent witness to this history, offering glimpses into a bygone era. As more information becomes available through ongoing research and exploration, the full story of the Ringleader and its final resting place may be revealed.

Photo Gallery 2023 Daniel Gildea CC

Drone Fly Over 2023 Daniel Gildea CC

External Links and Resources #

• Great Lakes Ships: Comprehensive documentation of vessels like the Ringleader and others that sailed the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Offers detailed historical records and accounts of the Ringleader and similar vessels.
• Watertown Daily Times: Newspaper archives that may contain articles and reports on the Ringleader and its history.
• Cape Vincent Eagle: Local historical records and documents, including details on the Ringleader‘s enrollment and ownership.
• Watertown Times (February Issues): Articles and reports that may provide additional insights into the Ringleader‘s service and final days.