IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Edith Sewell was a small wooden schooner, with some reports referring to it as a steam screw, indicating that it may have been equipped with auxiliary steam power in addition to its sails. With a gross tonnage of 9 tons, the vessel was relatively small, primarily designed for short-distance cargo transport, particularly in the Great Lakes region. The schooner played a crucial role in transporting fish from Georgian Bay to market towns, supporting the regional fishing industry.
HISTORY #
Construction and Early Use:
The Edith Sewell was constructed in 1874 in Chaumont, New York, a town known for its shipbuilding activities. The vessel was built for the specific purpose of transporting goods, especially fish, across Lake Ontario. Despite its small size, the Edith Sewell was a vital part of the local economy, ensuring the timely delivery of fresh catches to markets.
Sinking Incident:
In August 1883, the Edith Sewell tragically sank near the head of Wolfe Island, Lake Ontario. The exact cause of the sinking remains unclear, but the schooner was lost along with its cargo of fish. The crew, including Captain Alex Bailey, survived by clinging to wreckage until they were rescued by local fishermen. This incident highlighted the dangers faced by small vessels on the Great Lakes.
Recovery Efforts:
After the sinking, attempts were made to locate and recover the Edith Sewell. Grappling operations were conducted, but these efforts proved unsuccessful. Despite the failure to locate the wreck, parts of the schooner’s upper works washed ashore on Wolfe Island, serving as a stark reminder of the vessel’s fate.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The Edith Sewell was valued at $3,000 at the time of its sinking, reflecting its significance to its owners and the local economy. Although the exact cause of the sinking is unknown, the schooner remains an important part of Great Lakes maritime history. The wreck lies at the bottom of Lake Ontario at a depth of approximately 40 feet. The exact location has not been pinpointed, but it is believed to be near the head of Wolfe Island.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The wreck of the Edith Sewell is likely in a deteriorated state, given the time that has passed since the sinking. The shallow depth of 40 feet makes the site accessible to divers, though the exact location remains elusive. Scattered remains of the schooner, including parts that washed ashore, have complicated efforts to conduct a thorough exploration of the wreck.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes:
A comprehensive database of shipwrecks and maritime incidents, offering valuable context for the Edith Sewelland similar vessels. - Great Lakes Maritime Database:
Provides detailed information on Great Lakes vessels, including small schooners like the Edith Sewell. - Wrecksite EU:
A global resource for identifying and researching shipwrecks, including those in the Great Lakes. - Save Ontario Shipwrecks (SOS):
An organization focused on preserving Ontario’s underwater heritage, including wreck sites like the Edith Sewell.
