Vessel Name: Rochester #
Also Known As: Hastings (1876); Eurydice; Donnelly
Year of Build: 1863
Propulsion: Sidewheel
Built at: Montreal, Quebec
Final Disposition: Scuttled in 1919
Final Role: Full-time wrecker
Construction and Ownership
The Rochester, built in 1863 by A. Cantin in Montreal, Quebec, was a sidewheel steamer that played various roles throughout its long service life. Measuring 142 feet in length, 24 feet in beam, and 9 feet in depth, the vessel had a gross tonnage of 638 tons after multiple rebuilds. Originally launched as a general-purpose sidewheel steamer, the Rochester underwent several modifications and name changes as it passed through the hands of different owners, reflecting the evolving demands placed on the vessel throughout its operational life.
Key Rebuilds and Modifications
Over the course of its service, the Rochester underwent a series of significant rebuilds, adapting the vessel for different roles, including passenger service, salvage, and wrecking operations.
- First Rebuild (1873)
- Dimensions: 138 feet long, 26 feet wide
- Gross Tonnage: 638 tons
- This rebuild included updates to its sidewheel propulsion system, ensuring the vessel remained competitive as a passenger steamer on Lake Ontario.
- Second Rebuild (1883)
- After being acquired by C. F. Gildersleeve of Kingston, the vessel was rebuilt at Portsmouth, Ontario. This modification included significant structural changes, such as:
- Removal of the rear saloon to create space for wrecking gear, converting it into a part-time wrecker.
- Addition of a new upper deck at the stern in 1886, likely to accommodate more passengers and improve cargo capacity.
- After being acquired by C. F. Gildersleeve of Kingston, the vessel was rebuilt at Portsmouth, Ontario. This modification included significant structural changes, such as:
- Third Rebuild (1888)
- The vessel’s lower deck was enclosed, further adapting it for wrecking operations. The Rochester’s versatility in handling both passengers and salvage operations was a key factor in its longevity.
- Fourth Rebuild (1899)
- By 1899, the vessel was fully converted into a full-time wrecker under the ownership of the Donnelly Salvage & Wrecking Co.. The saloon and passenger features were entirely removed to make space for wrecking equipment. This rebuild marked the end of the Rochester’s time as a passenger steamer and its final role as a salvage vessel.
Ownership Timeline
- 1863-1869: The Rochester changed hands numerous times (up to 15 sales and mortgages) in its early years.
- 1868-1880: Owned by C. F. Gildersleeve in Kingston, who adapted the ship for various purposes, including excursions and limited wrecking duties.
- 1884: Sold to P. G. Close in Toronto, where it continued as an excursion steamer and part-time wrecker.
- 1894: Acquired by the Sylvester Brothers, Toronto, continuing as an excursion vessel.
- 1899: Sold to the Donnelly Salvage & Wrecking Co., the vessel was transformed into a full-time wrecker, marking the final phase of its operational life.
Role and Operations
The Rochester served primarily on Lake Ontario, and occasionally, it operated on specific routes such as Buffalo-Crystal Beach in 1898. After 1883, it was often used for excursions and charters out of Toronto, catering to passengers seeking leisure trips on the lake. Even after its partial conversion to a wrecker, it continued to serve excursion roles during quieter periods.
By the time it was converted into a full-time wrecker in 1899, the Rochester had fully transitioned away from its passenger roots. In this capacity, it was used to assist in the recovery of damaged vessels and salvage operations, an essential function on the often dangerous and busy shipping lanes of the Great Lakes.
Final Disposition: Scuttled in 1919
By 1913, the Rochester, now largely outdated and worn out from decades of service, was laid up and no longer actively used. After sitting idle for several years, the decision was made to scuttle the vessel in 1919. The aging sidewheel steamer, which had been a part of the Great Lakes’ history for more than 50 years, was finally retired in this manner, marking the end of its diverse and adaptable service.
Historical Significance
The Rochester serves as an example of the versatility of sidewheel steamers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Built initially as a passenger steamer, it adapted to the changing needs of the maritime economy, first through major rebuilds to remain competitive and then through conversion into a salvage vessel. The ability to be modified and serve as a wrecker showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of shipbuilders and owners during this period.
Throughout its operational life, the Rochester also reflects the shifting dynamics of the Great Lakes shipping industry, where vessels had to transition from passenger services to more industrial and salvage-oriented tasks as the region’s needs evolved. Its long history of service, multiple rebuilds, and final role in wrecking operations give the Rochester a unique place in the maritime history of Lake Ontario and the Great Lakes.
Summary of Key Events #
- 1863: Built in Montreal, Quebec, as a sidewheel steamer.
- 1868-1880: Owned by C. F. Gildersleeve in Kingston, primarily serving on Lake Ontario.
- 1873-1899: Underwent four major rebuilds, transitioning from passenger services to a full-time wrecker.
- 1899: Acquired by Donnelly Salvage & Wrecking Co., fully converted into a salvage vessel.
- 1913: Last used; laid up.
- 1919: Scuttled to dispose of the vessel.
The Rochester remains a notable example of how ships were repurposed and rebuilt over time, extending their utility and serving different roles throughout their long careers.
