IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Glenora was initially constructed as a wooden-hulled, three-masted schooner designed for transporting goods such as grain and railway iron across the Great Lakes. Built by R. Robinson in Kingston, Ontario, the vessel featured a traditional sailing rig that was typical of large cargo vessels of the era. In 1896, the Glenora underwent significant reconstruction and was converted into a schooner-barge, subsequently renamed Hector.
HISTORY #
The Glenora was launched in 1872 and initially served under the ownership of the Montreal Transportation Co. The vessel was actively involved in the grain trade between Duluth, Minnesota, and Montreal, Quebec, and was often towed by steamers like the Active and Glengarry to deliver cargo across the Great Lakes.
The Glenora had a history of accidents, including a notable incident on November 17, 1887, when it lost its tow from the steamer Glengarry and sank about 2.5 miles west of Amherst Island in Lake Ontario. Fortunately, it was later recovered.
In 1891, the vessel’s wheat cargo was damaged, marking another episode of misfortune. The following year, while bound for Port Arthur from Kingston, the Glenora again lost its tow, this time off Peninsular Harbor on Lake Superior, and found itself trapped in ice near Duluth, Minnesota. It was eventually towed to safety by the steamer Gatwick.
After enduring several more incidents, including a collision with the schooner Magnet in the Detroit River in 1892, the Glenora was rebuilt as a schooner-barge in 1896 and renamed Hector. This conversion slightly altered its dimensions and reduced its tonnage to 576 gross tons and 539 net tons.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The Hector met its tragic end on October 26, 1898, when it foundered in Lake Ontario behind Nicholson Island while being towed by the steamer James A. Walker, along with another barge, the Kildonan. A fierce storm claimed one life during this final voyage. The vessel’s remains now lie submerged in the waters of Lake Ontario, marking the end of its tumultuous service.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
No relevant Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are currently in effect for this wreck site.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck of the Hector has been identified behind Nicholson Island in Lake Ontario. However, it has not been widely documented or explored in recent times.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
Given the vessel’s age and the nature of its sinking, the wreck likely remains in a deteriorated state. The exact condition of the Hector is not well-documented, making it a less frequented site for divers. The depth and location near Nicholson Island may present challenges for exploration.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- Great Lakes Ships
- Historical Collections of the Great Lakes
- Beesons Marine Directory
KEYWORDS #
Glenora, Hector, Great Lakes Shipwreck, Lake Ontario, Schooner-Barge, Montreal Transportation Co., Nicholson Island
ANALYSIS #
The Glenora, later Hector, illustrates the challenges faced by wooden vessels on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. The frequent towing incidents, coupled with the harsh weather conditions, highlight the perils of maritime transport in this era. The vessel’s transformation from a three-masted schooner to a schooner-barge reflects the adaptability required to extend the operational life of aging ships. Despite its eventual sinking, the Glenora/Hector played a crucial role in the grain trade and serves as a reminder of the maritime history that shaped the economic development of the Great Lakes region.
