Annandale C72572

Vessel Type Description #

The Annandale was a wooden schooner, a versatile and vital vessel type in the 19th-century maritime economy of the Great Lakes. Schooners, with their distinctive fore-and-aft rigging, were renowned for their speed and maneuverability. These vessels were able to transport significant amounts of cargo while navigating the often challenging and unpredictable weather conditions on the Great Lakes.

Launched in 1868 from the shipyards of Kingston, Ontario, the Annandale was one of many vessels built to meet the growing demand for transport across the Great Lakes. Initially, the schooner was owned by George Irving of Burlington, Ontario, and was constructed to transport goods, likely timber, grain, and other commodities critical to regional economies. Schooners like the Annandale were considered the backbone of maritime trade, connecting communities and facilitating the movement of essential goods.

The Annandale’s sturdy build and frequent rebuilds reflected the dedication of its various owners to maintaining its seaworthiness, a testament to its value in Great Lakes trade. Over its nearly 40-year service, the schooner endured harsh conditions, multiple ownerships, and various repairs to stay afloat in a constantly evolving maritime landscape.

History & Significance #

The Annandale began its career as a significant contributor to Great Lakes trade. The ship’s construction in Kingston, Ontario, highlighted the region’s role as a shipbuilding hub, especially during the 19th century. Over the years, ownership of the Annandale shifted multiple times:

•Initial Ownership (1868): George Irving, Burlington, Ontario

•By 1871: Owned by Peter Mowat and others from Ernestown, Ontario

•Post-1878: Solely owned by Peter Mowat, marking a period of continued investment in the ship through a major rebuild.

The Annandale underwent extensive repairs and a rebuild in 1878, which modified its dimensions slightly, a common practice to extend a vessel’s working life and maintain competitiveness in the trade market.

Operational Incidents #

Throughout its service, the Annandale was no stranger to maritime challenges:

•1889 Wreck at Port Credit: The vessel was wrecked near Port Credit, Ontario, but subsequently salvaged and rebuilt, ensuring its continued service.

•Collision and Repairs: Over its long operational life, the schooner underwent significant repairs following various incidents, including damage during rough voyages.

The ship’s resilience through these events underscored its importance to its owners and its role as a workhorse on the Great Lakes. However, the challenges of navigating the hazardous conditions of the Great Lakes would eventually lead to its demise.

Final Disposition #

The Annandale met its tragic end on October 3, 1905, when it was wrecked on Charity Shoal near Sackett’s Harbor, New York, in Lake Ontario. The schooner was navigating through thick fog when it encountered a violent storm. Despite the efforts of its crew, the Annandale was driven onto the rocky shoal, ultimately succumbing to the storm’s fury.

This wreck was not the first time the schooner faced disaster. The ship had previously been wrecked in 1889 at Port Credit but had been rebuilt and continued service. However, the extreme conditions during the 1905 storm proved too severe, and the Annandale was lost.

Located By & Date #

•Located by: Documented shortly after the incident in October 1905

•Date of Discovery: October 3, 1905, following the wreck at Charity Shoal

NOTMARs & Advisories #

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the wreck site of the Annandale. However, Charity Shoal is still regarded as a navigational hazard, and mariners are advised to proceed with caution in this area.

Current Condition & Accessibility #

The wreck of the Annandale is believed to have deteriorated significantly due to the harsh conditions on Charity Shoal. There is no detailed modern documentation of the wreck’s precise location or current state, making it an area of interest for maritime historians and divers. The rocky nature of Charity Shoal and the severe weather conditions typical of the area likely contributed to the rapid deterioration of the wreck.

Resources & Links #

•Buffalo Evening News, October 6, 1905

•Buffalo Evening News, October 7, 1905

•Detroit Free Press, September 12, 1871

•Chicago Tribune, August 18, 1868

•Marine Disasters on the Western Lakes during 1869 by Capt. J.W. Hall

•List of Vessels on the Registry Books of the Dominion of Canada, December 31, 1902

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Database of shipwrecks and maritime incidents in the Great Lakes.

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Provides information on Great Lakes shipwrecks.

•Great Lakes Ships Database: Historical data and details on ships of the Great Lakes.

•Bowling Green State University Crew Records: Crew records and maritime history collections

Conclusion #

The Annandale served the Great Lakes for nearly four decades, embodying the resilience and importance of schooners in the region’s maritime history. Despite its robust construction and several rebuilds, the vessel ultimately met its end in the hazardous waters of Lake Ontario. The wreck on Charity Shoal on October 3, 1905, serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by mariners navigating the Great Lakes. The ship’s long history and tragic demise highlight its significance in the economic development of the region, making the Annandale a notable part of Great Lakes maritime lore.

Tags: Annandale schooner, Lake Ontario shipwreck, Charity Shoal, 19th-century maritime history, Kingston Ontario shipbuilding, Great Lakes schooners, Great Lakes shipwreck