IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The CITY OF KINGSTON was a wooden-hulled steambarge designed for cargo transport, particularly in the lumber trade. Sidewheel propulsion, which was common for the era, allowed the vessel to navigate the often turbulent waters of the Great Lakes. After its conversion in 1888, the vessel served as a barge, reflecting the changing demands of maritime commerce.
HISTORY #
The CITY OF KINGSTON was launched in 1874 at Kingston, Ontario, and played a crucial role in the burgeoning lumber trade across the Great Lakes. The vessel was initially owned by W. B. Anglin and S. Anglin, and its large capacity allowed it to move significant amounts of lumber, contributing to the economic development of the region.
In 1888, the CITY OF KINGSTON was rebuilt as a barge, which reduced its tonnage and likely altered its operational role. By the early 20th century, the vessel’s active service had significantly declined. Reports indicate that the ship was abandoned around 1900, and its registry was closed in 1901.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The CITY OF KINGSTON met its end in 1902 when it sank in Kingston, Ontario. The vessel’s hull was subsequently removed and dismantled for firewood, marking the end of its nearly three decades of service on the Great Lakes.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
No relevant Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are currently in effect for this wreck.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
There is no specific record of a modern discovery of the CITY OF KINGSTON wreck site, as the hull was removed after sinking.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The wreck of the CITY OF KINGSTON no longer exists as a diveable site, as the hull was dismantled after the vessel sank in 1902.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
KEYWORDS #
CITY OF KINGSTON, Steambarge, Kingston, Ontario, Great Lakes Shipwreck, Maritime History, Lumber Trade
ANALYSIS #
The history of the CITY OF KINGSTON reflects the broader narrative of maritime commerce on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. As a steambarge and later a barge, the vessel was part of a fleet that facilitated the transportation of lumber, a critical resource for the development of North American infrastructure during that era. The vessel’s eventual conversion to a barge and subsequent abandonment and dismantling illustrate the lifecycle of many ships of that period, which were adapted to changing economic needs until they were no longer viable. The sinking and subsequent removal of the CITY OF KINGSTON are symbolic of the end of an era in Great Lakes shipping history.
