IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The YORK was an armed naval vessel equipped with 12 guns, indicating it was likely used for patrol, escort, and defense duties in the Great Lakes region. Vessels of this type were common during the early 19th century, particularly during conflicts such as the War of 1812, where control of the Great Lakes was strategically important for both British and American forces.
HISTORY: #
The vessel originally named YORK was part of the British Royal Navy and was stationed in the Great Lakes to protect British interests in the region. In 1807, during the escalating tensions between Britain and the United States, the ship was captured by American forces at York, which is present-day Toronto. After its capture, the Americans renamed the vessel YORK.
Following its capture and renaming, the YORK continued to serve under American control, contributing to their naval presence on the Great Lakes during a critical period of North American history. In 1815, after the end of the War of 1812, the ship was sold and subsequently renamed Eckford.
The Eckford remained in service for several more years and was recorded as still being afloat in 1824. The vessel’s long service life reflects the common practice of repurposing military ships for various roles after they were decommissioned or sold by the navy.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
Details about the ultimate fate of the Eckford after 1824 are not well-documented. It is possible that the vessel was eventually decommissioned, dismantled, or repurposed, as was common for ships of its era once they were no longer suitable for active service.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the Eckford. Given that the vessel remained afloat until at least 1824 and likely did not meet a dramatic end, there is no known wreck site associated with it.
LOCATED BY & DATE: #
The Eckford does not have a recorded wreck site, as it was still afloat as of 1824, and its eventual fate remains unclear.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY: #
Since the Eckford was likely decommissioned and dismantled, there are no remnants of the vessel accessible today. If any part of the ship was preserved, it would likely be in a maritime museum or private collection, but there is no specific documentation of such artifacts.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Maritime Museum of the Great Lakes: This museum may have records related to naval vessels on the Great Lakes, including ships like the YORK/Eckford.
- Library and Archives Canada: For more detailed historical records and documents related to naval actions in the Great Lakes during the early 19th century.
- Naval History and Heritage Command: A resource for information on naval ships and their histories, which may include records of ships captured during the War of 1812.
PHOTOS: #
There are no known photographs of the YORK/Eckford, as photography was not available at the time of its service. However, historical illustrations or paintings of similar armed vessels from the period may provide a visual reference.
