Identification & Site Information #
| Vessel Name: | Moira (often misspelled as “Moria”) |
| Year of Build: | 1850 |
| Builder: | Kingston Marine Railway Company |
| Location Built: | Kingston, Ontario, Canada |
| Type: | Propeller Steamer |
| Dimensions: | Length: 129 feet |
| Location of Wreck: | Near Salmon Point, Lake Ontario |
| Final Disposition: | Wrecked near Salmon Point, Lake Ontario during a snowstorm in November 1855 |
Vessel Type Description #
The Moira was a propeller steamer, a type of steam-powered vessel that played a crucial role in the transportation network of the Great Lakes during the mid-19th century. These vessels were integral to the movement of goods and passengers across the expansive waters of the Great Lakes, leveraging steam power to overcome the limitations of wind-driven ships. Built by the Kingston Marine Railway Company in Kingston, Ontario, the Moira was designed for durability and efficiency, embodying the technological advancements of its time. The vessel’s construction reflected the engineering standards and economic demands of a rapidly growing region.
History #
The Moira was constructed in 1850 by the Kingston Marine Railway Company, a prominent shipyard in Kingston, Ontario, known for producing robust vessels for the Great Lakes. The shipyard, situated on Lake Ontario, played a key role in the development of the region’s maritime infrastructure, supporting the burgeoning trade routes that connected the Great Lakes to the wider world.
The Moira served as a critical component of the Great Lakes transportation network during a period marked by significant economic growth and technological change. Its early service involved the transportation of goods such as coal, grain, and other merchandise across Lake Ontario, connecting vital commercial hubs. The vessel’s role was emblematic of the broader trends in mid-19th century maritime history, where steam-powered vessels began to dominate inland waterways, providing faster and more reliable transportation compared to their sail-driven predecessors.
However, the Moira’s operational history was not without challenges. On November 28, 1855, while navigating during a snowstorm, the Moira ran aground near the southwest end of Amherst Island, just a mile from shore, as it attempted to make the Upper Gap, a narrow passage that was notoriously difficult to navigate under poor weather conditions. The Moira was carrying over 200 tons of valuable merchandise at the time, reflecting its continued importance in the regional economy. Despite initial hopes that the vessel and its cargo might be salvaged with minimal damage, the Moira ultimately could not be freed and remained fast aground.
The Moira’s stranding was part of a series of maritime disasters during the same storm. Nearby, two schooners—the Mobile and the New World—were also beached, while further along the coast, the schooner Metcalfe was similarly stranded. The incident highlighted the dangers of navigating the Great Lakes during the harsh winter months and underscored the importance of advancements in maritime technology and navigation practices.
Final Disposition #
The Moira met its end near Salmon Point on Lake Ontario after grounding in a snowstorm in November 1855. Despite efforts to salvage the vessel, it remained stranded and was eventually lost to the elements, becoming another casualty of the treacherous waters of Lake Ontario. The wreck of the Moira is now a part of the rich tapestry of maritime history in the Great Lakes region.
Located By & Date #
The wreck site of the Moira was known following its grounding in 1855. However, the exact coordinates of the wreck have not been widely documented. The site remains submerged near Salmon Point, serving as a testament to the perils faced by 19th-century mariners on the Great Lakes.
NOTMARs & Advisories #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specific to the Moira wreck site. Mariners navigating near Salmon Point should be aware of the general risks associated with historical wreck sites and the challenging conditions that persist in this area.
Resources & Links #
Conclusion #
The Moira’s history reflects the significant role it played in the economic and technological development of the Great Lakes during the mid-19th century. The vessel’s grounding near Salmon Point underscores the hazards of Great Lakes navigation, particularly during the harsh winter months. The wreck of the Moira, though now lost to time, remains a symbol of the era’s maritime challenges and the enduring legacy of the ships that once navigated these vast waters.
