OCEAN WAVE, with a registration year of 1868, was a vessel of significance. Built and registered in Picton, Ontario, it had a gross tonnage of 95. As a schooner, it played a vital role in the transportation of goods and materials on Lake Ontario.
Tragedy struck the OCEAN WAVE on a fateful day in November 1890 when it capsized on Lake Ontario. Reports from various sources indicated that the crew’s fate remained unknown, leaving a sense of uncertainty and concern. The vessel was discovered capsized 15 miles north of Oswego, confirming the distressing news of its loss.
Eyewitness accounts provided additional details about the OCEAN WAVE’s tragic fate. The schooner FLEETWING, while en route to Fairhaven, came across the wreckage of the OCEAN WAVE. Contrary to initial reports, it was observed that the yawl boat was not tied to the stern of the vessel, suggesting that the wrecked schooner had been swept away by the powerful waves.
Efforts were made to locate any survivors or bodies associated with the OCEAN WAVE. The tug PROCTOR encountered scattered debris, possibly remnants of the vessel, near the Ducks. However, seasoned sailors expressed little hope of finding any bodies during the current season, as it was believed that the schooner had capsized in the middle of the lake.
The personal toll of the tragedy was revealed through the account of Mrs. Brokenshire, the wife of the late Captain Brokenshire. She disclosed that the OCEAN WAVE carried a crew of five individuals, including her husband, William Martin from Port Hope, Mr. Smith from Port Hope, Wells from Belleville, and an unidentified man. Captain Brokenshire’s son, previously reported to be aboard, was not present. Mrs. Brokenshire, left widowed with four children, ranging in age from four to twelve, faced the heart-wrenching aftermath of the incident.
The Inland Lloyds Vessel Register provided essential information about the OCEAN WAVE. With a tonnage of 100 (new tonnage) and built by Tait in Picton in 1868, the vessel was owned by Brokenshire & Co., with Picton listed as its home port. Its value was estimated at $1,000, and it held a classification of Class B 2 according to the register.
