Resting near the serene shores of Mudlunta Island in the St. Lawrence River, the remains of the once-proud schooner The Briton tell a tale of maritime adventure, transformation, and ultimately, quiet repose. Built in 1872 as the S. & J. Collier, this schooner served the Great Lakes for decades, bearing witness to the dynamic world of 19th-century shipping and trade. Though now reduced to a relic, the vessel’s history continues to captivate those who explore the waters near Gananoque.
**A Schooner’s Tale: From S. & J. Collier to The Briton #
Originally christened the S. & J. Collier, this schooner was constructed by John Tait in South Marysburg Township, Prince Edward County, Ontario. The vessel was named after its first owners, brothers Saul and John Collier, who were prominent captains and shipowners of the time. With Captain Robert Snetsinger of Colborne serving as its first master, the S. & J. Collier quickly became a familiar sight on the Great Lakes.
The schooner was designed to be a workhorse of the lakes, with dimensions that made it ideal for navigating the often-shallow loading places in Prince Edward County. Measuring 106 feet 6 inches in length, 23 feet 8 inches in beam, and with a depth of hold of 8 feet 7 inches, the vessel had a gross tonnage of 146 tons. Its graceful lines and clipper bow made it well-suited for the barley trade, which was a significant part of its early operations.
Voyages and Races #
The S. & J. Collier was not just a cargo vessel but also a participant in the spirited competitions that characterized the maritime culture of the Great Lakes. The schooner frequently raced against another vessel, the Nellie Hunter, as they competed to deliver barley to Oswego. These races were intense, with both crews pushing their vessels to the limits in an effort to secure the best prices for their cargo.
On one notable occasion, the Collier outmaneuvered the Hunter after the latter’s jib-topsail sheets parted, only to face its own challenges when its jib-topsail and flying jib were torn. Despite these setbacks, the Collier remained a profitable and reliable vessel, often earning up to $1,000 per week during the height of the barley trade.
Transition and Transformation #
As the years passed, the S. & J. Collier changed hands and underwent several transformations. By the 1890s, the vessel was registered in Port Hope, Ontario, and in 1902, it came under the ownership of Captain Vandusen from Picton. It was during this time that the schooner underwent a significant change, both in name and appearance.
Repainted in its original white and rebranded as The Briton, the schooner continued to ply the waters of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. However, as the shipping industry evolved, the role of the traditional schooner began to wane. By 1910, The Briton had ceased active service and spent the next fifteen years as a stationary landmark in the St. Lawrence River.
Final Resting Place #
The last chapter of The Briton’s story unfolded near Mudlunta Island in the St. Lawrence River, close to Gananoque, Ontario. The vessel was eventually abandoned, and over time, the elements took their toll. Today, the remains of The Briton lie scattered on the riverbed, a poignant reminder of the vessel’s once-glorious past.
Legacy and Historical Significance #
The Briton is more than just a shipwreck; it is a symbol of a bygone era when schooners were the lifeblood of commerce on the Great Lakes. The vessel’s history reflects the challenges and triumphs of maritime life in the 19th and early 20th centuries, from its construction and early voyages to its transformation and eventual demise.
The wreck of The Briton continues to draw the interest of maritime historians, divers, and enthusiasts who are eager to explore the remnants of this storied schooner. While only fragments of the vessel remain, they offer valuable insights into the construction techniques, materials, and design preferences of the time.
Exploring the Wreck #
For those who venture to Mudlunta Island, the wreck of The Briton provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past. The shallow waters and accessible location make it an intriguing site for divers and underwater archaeologists. Though time has worn away much of the ship, the remnants of its hull and other structural elements can still be seen, offering a glimpse into the vessel’s long and varied history.
Conclusion #
The story of The Briton, once known as the S. & J. Collier, is a testament to the enduring legacy of the schooners that once ruled the waters of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. From its days as a competitive barley carrier to its quiet end near Gananoque, this vessel has left an indelible mark on maritime history. Though its sails no longer catch the wind, The Briton remains a cherished relic of a time when schooners were the backbone of the region’s economy and culture.
External Links and References #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: A comprehensive resource for historical records and accounts related to The Briton and other vessels that sailed the Great Lakes.
- Thousand Islands Life: A site that explores the history, culture, and stories of the Thousand Islands region, including notable shipwrecks like The Briton.
