DENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Winona was a barge, a type of vessel primarily used for transporting goods, often without its own means of propulsion. Barges like the Winona were typically towed by tugboats and were vital in moving bulk cargo along rivers and canals. The wooden hull construction was common for barges of this era, built for durability and functionality rather than speed or elegance.
HISTORY #
The Winona was constructed in 1909, entering service as a workhorse in the transportation of goods along the St. Lawrence River and potentially other connected waterways. With a gross tonnage of 53 tons, the Winona was likely involved in carrying various types of cargo, contributing to the bustling trade and industrial activities of the early 20th century.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
On February 25, 1920, the Winona was reported to have caught fire at Alexandria Bay, New York. The circumstances surrounding the fire are not well-documented, leaving the cause and the sequence of events leading up to the blaze somewhat unclear. Despite the severity of the incident, no casualties were reported, which is a fortunate aspect of the event. The fire, however, marked the end of the Winona’s service life, with the barge being a total loss.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE INCIDENT #
The loss of the Winona is a small but notable part of the maritime history of Alexandria Bay, a region known for its rich nautical heritage. The barge’s destruction by fire highlights the risks associated with early 20th-century maritime operations, particularly in an era when wooden vessels were still common. The incident was recorded in the “Loss Reported of American Vessels” section of the Merchant Vessel List for 1920, ensuring that the event was formally acknowledged in maritime records.
CURRENT CONDITION & LEGACY #
Given that the Winona was a wooden barge and was destroyed by fire, it is unlikely that much, if anything, remains of the vessel today. Any remnants would be severely charred and possibly scattered along the riverbed near Alexandria Bay. The legacy of the Winona lies in its contribution to the commerce of its time and the historical record of maritime incidents in the region.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
Further research into local archives, newspapers from the period, or maritime records may provide more details about the Winona and the circumstances of its destruction. The Merchant Vessel List for 1920 is a key source documenting the loss.
