ADVENTURE C88575

The steam barge ADVENTURE was a robust vessel built to navigate the challenging waters of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. Constructed in 1887 by John Davenna in Kingston, Ontario, this barge was designed with a carvel-built hull, a round stern, and a single deck, embodying the craftsmanship of the era. However, despite its sturdy build and significant investment in repairs, the ADVENTURE met a tragic end in the treacherous waters of Gallop Rapids on October 13, 1885.

A Vessel of Resilience: The Story of the ADVENTURE #

Originally built in 1873 at Dog Lake, Ontario, by Joseph Keeler, the ADVENTURE underwent a significant transformation in 1884, when it was rebuilt as a barge. With an official Canadian number of 88575, the vessel measured 103 feet in length, 23 feet in breadth, and 7 feet in depth, with a registered tonnage of 129 tons. After the rebuild, it was equipped with a steam engine that added 48 tons to its overall weight, bringing its final tonnage to 160 tons.

John Devana, the owner and master of the ADVENTURE, invested heavily in the vessel, spending $2,500 on repairs in 1884 alone. This investment reflected the importance of the barge to Devana’s operations, as it was primarily used to transport goods between Kingston and Montreal, a vital trade route during that period.

The Fateful Journey #

On October 13, 1885, the ADVENTURE was part of a convoy being towed by the tug TRAVELLER, captained by J. Sullivan. The convoy, which included another barge named BEAUPORT, was navigating the St. Lawrence River on its way from Kingston to Montreal. As they approached Cardinal, near Gallop Rapids, disaster struck.

The tow lines connecting the TRAVELLER to the barges snapped, leaving the ADVENTURE and BEAUPORT adrift in the river’s strong currents. While the BEAUPORT managed to strand itself in the rapids, the ADVENTURE was not as fortunate. The barge drifted toward Sparrowhawk Point, where it struck a rock and quickly began to sink.

A Narrow Escape #

The sinking of the ADVENTURE was a harrowing experience for those on board. Captain Pregent, his wife (who served as the cook), and three crew members, all of whom were French, faced imminent danger as the vessel took on water. Fortunately, they managed to board the BEAUPORT before the ADVENTURE fully submerged.

Captain Edmond and his crew, along with a cook and three children aboard the BEAUPORT, skillfully navigated their barge to safety, preventing further tragedy. The ADVENTURE, however, was lost to the river, its final resting place in the depths of Gallop Rapids.

Aftermath and Salvage Efforts #

The loss of the ADVENTURE was a significant blow to John Devana and his operations. The vessel, valued at $6,000, along with its cargo of wheat valued at $7,420, was a total loss. The Cleveland Leader reported the total value of the loss at $7,000, highlighting the financial impact of the disaster.

Efforts were made to locate and possibly salvage the wreck. M.J. Calvin, the Marine Inspector for the Continental Insurance Co. of New York, was dispatched to Cardinal to determine the precise location of the sunken barge. However, the powerful currents of Gallop Rapids made salvage operations difficult, and the ADVENTURE remained undisturbed for the remainder of the year.

Legacy of the ADVENTURE #

The sinking of the ADVENTURE marked the end of its seafaring days, but it also serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River during the 19th century. The ADVENTURE was a vessel built with care and purpose, yet even the best-constructed ships were vulnerable to the unpredictable forces of nature.

The wreck of the ADVENTURE remains a part of the maritime history of the region, with its final records noting its construction, rebuilds, and eventual demise. Today, the story of the ADVENTURE is a testament to the resilience of the vessels and crews that once plied the waters of the St. Lawrence River, contributing to the rich tapestry of Canada’s maritime heritage.

External Links and References #

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: A resource for further information on shipwrecks and maritime history in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River region.
• Department of Marine and Fisheries Records: Official records documenting the sinking of the ADVENTUREand other maritime incidents in Canadian waters.
• Cleveland Leader Archives: Historical newspaper reports on the loss of the ADVENTURE and its cargo.