The Clara White was a schooner that played an active role in the maritime trade of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River during the late 19th century. Built in 1871 by Christopher Harris in Dog Lake, Storrington, Ontario, this vessel witnessed numerous ownership changes, survived groundings, and underwent significant repairs throughout its operational life. However, its service came to a sudden and tragic end in 1889 when it was destroyed by fire while anchored at Grenadier Island.
Construction and Specifications #
The Clara White was constructed with care and precision by Christopher Harris, a shipbuilder in Dog Lake, Storrington, Ontario. The schooner was designed for the rigors of Great Lakes and river navigation, with a length of 78.7 feet, a beam of 18.5 feet, and a depth of 6.3 feet. The vessel had a gross tonnage of 82 tons and a net tonnage of 62 tons, making it a moderately sized schooner well-suited for transporting goods across the region’s waterways.
Operational History and Ownership #
The Clara White was initially owned by its builder, Christopher Harris. Over the years, the vessel changed hands multiple times, with a variety of owners contributing to its storied history. Some of the notable owners included Alfred Eccles, Samuel Cardwell, John Shannon, Patrick McAuley, William Newman, and James Reid. The final registered owners of the Clara White were Captain Bebiah Major, William Newman, and James Reid, who took ownership in April 1887.
Throughout its operational life, the Clara White experienced several significant events:
- 1882: The schooner underwent major repairs, ensuring its continued service in the challenging waters of the Great Lakes.
- 1886: While en route from Oswego to Kingston, the Clara White ran aground at Indian Point in Quinte Bay. Fortunately, the damage was minimal, and the vessel was successfully refloated.
- 1888: The schooner was rebuilt, a testament to its importance and the value placed on maintaining its seaworthiness.
The Tragic End #
The Clara White met its unfortunate demise on November 28, 1889, while anchored at Grenadier Island in the St. Lawrence River. A devastating fire broke out on the vessel, completely destroying it. The crew managed to escape with their lives, though the cook sustained minor injuries. The schooner, valued at $1,600, was insured for $1,000, which partially offset the financial loss suffered by its owners.
The cause of the fire remains unclear, but the incident marked the end of the Clara White‘s existence as a working schooner. Following the fire, the schooner’s register was officially canceled in December 1889.
Legacy #
The Clara White‘s legacy is one of resilience and service. Over nearly two decades, the vessel contributed to the regional economy, transporting goods across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. Despite the challenges it faced, including groundings and the need for extensive repairs, the Clara White remained an active participant in the maritime trade until its tragic end.
The schooner’s story is a reminder of the dangers faced by vessels of that era, particularly wooden ships that were vulnerable to fire. The Clara White is remembered not only for its years of service but also for the dramatic and unfortunate circumstances that led to its demise.
Conclusion #
The Clara White was more than just a schooner; it was a vital link in the transportation network of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. Its history of ownership changes, repairs, and ultimate destruction by fire reflects the broader narrative of 19th-century maritime commerce. Though the vessel no longer exists, its story lives on in the records and memories of those who sailed on and relied upon the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River for their livelihoods.
External Links and References #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: For more detailed accounts of vessels like the Clara White and the historical significance of maritime trade in the region.
- St. Lawrence River Historical Society: A resource for further exploration of shipwrecks and maritime incidents on the St. Lawrence River.
