Identification & Site Information
Vessel Type Description The Alberta was originally constructed as a sloop in 1885 in Cape Vincent, New York. Sloops were small, single-masted sailing vessels commonly used in the 19th century for coastal and inland waterway navigation. The vessel was later rebuilt in 1890 as a steam barge, reflecting the shift towards steam power during this period. Steam barges like the Alberta were designed to carry larger cargoes more efficiently across the Great Lakes and other inland waters.
History The Alberta was launched in 1885 as a sloop with modest dimensions and tonnage, suitable for small-scale cargo transport and local trade. The vessel’s initial years saw it serving in this capacity, leveraging the versatility and simplicity of its design.
In 1890, the Alberta underwent a significant transformation when it was rebuilt as a steam barge in Cape Vincent, New York. The conversion included lengthening the vessel to 98.5 feet and increasing its gross tonnage to 88 tons. This modification allowed the Alberta to carry larger loads and operate more efficiently on longer routes. The vessel’s ownership during this period included individuals like G. R. Hinckley and A. L. Hinckley.
Canadian Ownership and Final Voyage #
By 1898, the Alberta had been sold to Canadian ownership and was registered under the Canadian official number C103648. The vessel was lengthened again in Oswego, New York, in 1889, suggesting it had undergone modifications to further enhance its cargo-carrying capacity.
The Alberta’s final owners were Captain Smith and Amanda Smith of Belleville, Ontario. On October 8, 1902, while en route to Belleville on Lake Ontario, the vessel tragically caught fire between Belleville and Trenton, Ontario. Despite the total loss of the vessel, there were no fatalities. At the time of the incident, the Alberta was not carrying any cargo and was valued at $3,000.
Incident Details #
- Date of Incident: October 8, 1902
- Location: Between Belleville and Trenton, Ontario, Lake Ontario
- Cause of Loss: Fire, leading to complete destruction of the vessel
- Casualties: None
- Value of Vessel: $3,000 at the time of the incident
Final Disposition The Alberta was completely destroyed by fire on October 8, 1902, resulting in the vessel’s total loss. The fire occurred while the vessel was in transit on Lake Ontario, and despite the destruction, all crew members were reported safe.
NOTMARs & Advisories There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the Alberta, as the incident occurred in the early 20th century, and the vessel was completely destroyed.
Located By & Date The Alberta was destroyed by fire between Belleville and Trenton, Ontario. No remains of the vessel are expected to exist due to the nature of the incident.
Current Condition & Accessibility Given the Alberta’s complete destruction by fire in 1902, no remains of the vessel are accessible for exploration. The site of the incident, between Belleville and Trenton on Lake Ontario, would hold no significant wreckage.
Resources & Links
- Great Lakes Ships – Sloop: Provides information and histories of ships that sailed the Great Lakes, including the Alberta.
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: A comprehensive resource for historical data on Great Lakes vessels.
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: Contains detailed records and descriptions of shipwrecks, potentially including the Alberta.
Keywords Alberta, sloop, steam barge, Lake Ontario, shipwreck, fire, maritime history, Great Lakes, Cape Vincent, Belleville, Trenton
Analysis The Alberta’s history reflects the transition from sail to steam power that characterized the late 19th century maritime industry. Originally built as a sloop, the vessel’s conversion to a steam barge in 1890 allowed it to meet the increasing demands of cargo transport on the Great Lakes. The Alberta’s destruction by fire in 1902 is a reminder of the inherent risks faced by vessels of this era, where even the most advanced technology could not fully mitigate the dangers of fire at sea. Despite its loss, the Alberta remains a part of the broader narrative of Great Lakes shipping and the evolution of maritime technology during this period.
