Other Names #
- THE BRITON
- S. & J. Collier 1872
- Mudlunta Island Wreck
History #
The History of The BRITON:
In the picturesque island of Mudlunta in the St. Lawrence River, near Gananoque, an intriguing relic of the past can still be found – the remains of a once-trim and well-kept lake schooner named THE BRITON. While time and wear have taken their toll on the vessel, its historical significance and unique name continue to captivate the curiosity of onlookers. Let us delve into the story of THE BRITON., tracing its origins, voyages, and eventual resting place.
A Schooner’s Tale:
THE BRITON., proudly displaying its name on the stern, was not born in Gananoque nor initially named as such. Schooner Days first encountered this vessel on May 24, 1903, near the D.L. & W. trestle in Oswego. Surprised by the unfamiliar name emblazoned on its side – “THE BRITON of BOWMANVILLE” embarking on a journey to uncover the vessel’s past. THE BRITON., it turned out, had a rich history that stretched back to its construction in 1872.
Origin and Early Days:
Built by John Tait in South Marysburg township, Prince Edward County, the schooner was originally known as the S. & J. COLLIER. It was named after brothers Saul and John Collier, who were both captains, vessel owners, and shareholders of this new ship. Captain Robert Snetsinger of Colborne served as her first master, and he eventually became a part-owner before taking full ownership. The S. & J. COLLIER, with a registration of 146 tons, featured a length of 106 feet 6 inches, a beam of 23 feet 8 inches, and a depth of hold measuring 8 feet 7 inches. With her graceful lines and clipper bow, she was a typical barley carrier of her time, capable of navigating the shallow loading places in Prince Edward County.
Voyages and Competitions:
During her time under Prince Edward County ownership, the S. & J. COLLIER engaged in numerous races with another schooner named Nellie Hunter. Both vessels were profitable in the barley trade with Oswego, often earning as much as $1,000 per week. These races were marked by their haste to transport barley, where they would push their sails to the limit and even risk tearing them. On one occasion, the COLLIER outmaneuvered the HUNTER after its jib-topsail sheets parted. However, the COLLIER faced its own challenges when its jibtopsail and flying jib were torn, allowing the HUNTER to catch up. It was a testament to the perils and rewards of sailing the Great Lakes during that era.
Transition and Transformation:
Over the years, the S. & J. COLLIER changed hands and underwent several transformations. By the 1890s, it had come under Port Hope registry, and in 1902, it appeared in Toronto under the ownership of Captain Vandusen from Picton. It was during this period that the vessel transitioned to its familiar name, THE BRITON, reverting to its original white paint scheme. Its presence as THE BRITON continued until 1910, after which it remained a stationary landmark in the St. Lawrence River for fifteen more years.
The story of THE BRITON, once a proud and thriving lake schooner, is a testament to the maritime history of the Great Lakes. From its construction in 1872 as the S. & J. COLLIER to its eventual retirement and transformation into a stationary relic, this vessel witnessed the ebb and flow of the shipping industry. Though only remnants of its hull remain today, THE BRITON’s legacy lives on, reminding us of the bygone era when schooners ruled the waters and helped shape the communities they served.
