Identification & Site Information
Vessel Type Description The Aberdeen was a propeller-driven wooden bulk freighter, a type of vessel commonly used on the Great Lakes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Bulk freighters like the Aberdeen were designed to carry large quantities of cargo, such as coal, grain, or other bulk materials, across the Great Lakes. The term “rabbit” often referred to smaller, more agile freighters that were versatile and could navigate shallower waters or tighter spaces.
History The Aberdeen was built in 1894 by J. Tait in Picton, Ontario. The vessel measured 100 feet in length, 22 feet in width, and 9 feet in depth, with a gross tonnage of 142 tons. Despite its small size, the Aberdeen played a significant role in the Great Lakes shipping industry, transporting various bulk goods throughout its operational life.
Ownership of the Aberdeen changed hands several times during its years of service. On March 3, 1905, Bernard R. and James D. Hepburn of Picton, Ontario, were listed as the owners. However, by April 7, 1905, ownership had transferred to the Ontario & Quebec Navigation Co. Ltd., also based in Picton. The vessel was towed by the Rob Roy in April 1905, indicating its active use during this period. Later, on April 28, 1916, ownership passed to Canada Steamship Lines Ltd., a prominent shipping company based in Montreal.
Tragically, the Aberdeen met its end on March 11, 1918, when it was destroyed by a fire while in winter quarters at the Hepburn Shipyard in Picton, Ontario, within the Bay of Quinte on Lake Ontario. The fire consumed the vessel while it was docked at the “Ways” of the shipyard, which was part of the large Hepburn Fleet. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident, and the vessel was not carrying any cargo at the time.
There is some discrepancy in historical records, with some sources indicating that the loss of the Aberdeen may have occurred in 1917. However, the most commonly accepted date of loss is March 11, 1918. The vessel’s registry was officially closed on November 4, 1920.
Final Disposition The Aberdeen was lost to a fire on March 11, 1918, while docked at the Hepburn Shipyard in Picton, Ontario, within the Bay of Quinte on Lake Ontario. The fire completely destroyed the vessel, leading to its eventual removal from the registry in 1920.
NOTMARs & Advisories There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the Aberdeen wreck, as it was lost in a shipyard fire and not at sea. The site of the fire, the Hepburn Shipyard, is a point of historical interest rather than a navigational hazard.
Located By & Date The Aberdeen was destroyed while in winter quarters at the Hepburn Shipyard in Picton, Ontario, on March 11, 1918. The location is well documented as part of the shipyard’s history within the Bay of Quinte.
Current Condition & Accessibility As the Aberdeen was destroyed by fire while docked in a shipyard, no substantial remains are likely to be found at the site. Any remaining wreckage would be minimal and possibly buried or dispersed. The site is not accessible for diving or exploration, as it was a land-based fire at the shipyard rather than an underwater wreck.
Resources & Links
- Great Lakes Ships: Provides information and histories of ships that sailed the Great Lakes, including the Aberdeen.
- Bowling Green State University: A resource for archival records related to Great Lakes vessels and maritime history.
- Marine Naval Institute: Offers historical data and records on naval and maritime vessels, potentially including Great Lakes freighters like the Aberdeen.
Keywords Aberdeen, wood bulk freighter, Picton, Lake Ontario, Bay of Quinte, shipwreck, fire, maritime history, Great Lakes
Analysis The Aberdeen represents a significant era in Great Lakes maritime history, particularly as a smaller, versatile freighter that served the shipping industry for over two decades. Built in 1894, the vessel was part of the extensive fleet that navigated the Great Lakes, contributing to the economic development of the region. The tragic loss of the Aberdeenin 1918 highlights the dangers faced by these vessels, even when not at sea. Fires in shipyards were not uncommon, and the destruction of the Aberdeen serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in maintaining and operating wooden ships during this period. The vessel’s history, ownership changes, and eventual demise provide valuable insights into the life cycle of Great Lakes freighters and the challenges they faced.
