DENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
ESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The Crossman was a luxurious pleasure yacht, known for its elegant design and comfortable amenities. Yachts like the Crossman were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially among the affluent who sought leisure and relaxation on the water. The vessel was equipped with the finest materials, offering a serene and idyllic experience for its passengers.
HISTORY: #
The Crossman was a beloved fixture in Alexandria Bay, offering passengers a beautiful and peaceful way to enjoy the scenic views of the St. Lawrence River. The yacht was well-known for its sleek lines, graceful presence, and the sense of tranquility it provided to those on board. It hosted countless sunset cruises, social gatherings, and family outings, making it a cherished part of the local maritime culture.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
On the night of September 8, 1902, tragedy struck when the Crossman was engulfed in flames. The fire rapidly consumed the vessel, burning it down to the water’s edge. Despite any efforts to save the yacht, the blaze proved unstoppable, leaving behind only charred remnants of what was once a symbol of leisure and beauty. The cause of the fire remains unclear, but the loss of the Crossman was deeply felt by the community.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to this wreck, as the remains of the Crossmanare likely minimal and not a navigational hazard. However, the site may still hold historical interest for local divers and maritime enthusiasts.
LOCATED BY & DATE: #
The wreckage of the Crossman was discovered in the immediate aftermath of the fire in 1902. Due to the nature of the incident, the vessel was likely considered a total loss, with salvage or recovery efforts limited by the extent of the damage.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY: #
The remains of the Crossman are presumed to be minimal, as the fire burned the vessel down to the water’s edge. The site might be accessible to divers or researchers interested in early 20th-century maritime history, but it is unlikely that significant portions of the yacht remain intact.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: A resource that may provide additional historical context and records related to the Crossman.
- British Whig (Kingston, ON), 9 Sep 1902: The original report on the fire and the loss of the yacht.
PHOTOS: #
No known photographs of the wreck exist, but images of the Crossman before the fire may be found in historical archives or local museums dedicated to the maritime history of the St. Lawrence River.
KEYWORDS: #
Crossman yacht, St. Lawrence River shipwreck, Alexandria Bay wreck, pleasure yacht fire, maritime history, early 20th-century yachts, leisure boat shipwreck.
