IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Mary was a typical wooden schooner, a common type of vessel on the Great Lakes during the 19th and early 20th centuries. These vessels were primarily used for transporting bulk goods such as coal, grain, and lumber. The Mary was relatively small compared to other schooners but was well-suited for its intended cargo routes across the lakes.
HISTORY #
The Mary was built in 1877 in Merritton, Ontario, and served various cargo routes throughout its operational life. By 1905, the vessel was owned by Andrew Baird of Toronto and registered in St. Catharines, Ontario. It was primarily engaged in the transportation of coal and other bulk goods between ports on Lake Ontario.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
On November 1, 1905, the Mary set out from North Fair Haven, New York, carrying a load of coal destined for Napanee, Ontario. However, the vessel never reached its destination. The schooner was reported missing after it failed to arrive, and concerns grew when considerable wreckage, including green and white cabins, was found near the Galloup Islands. This wreckage was believed to be from the missing schooner Mary.
The exact circumstances under which the Mary sank remain unknown. The crew consisted of Captain Baird and three men, all of whom were presumed lost along with the vessel. Despite the discovery of wreckage, the ultimate fate of the schooner and its crew remained uncertain.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) in effect related to the wreck of the Mary.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Great Lakes Ships
