The CITY OF DRESDEN was a passenger vessel that was built in Walkerville, Ontario in 1872. It had a length of 93 feet, a width of 23 feet, and a depth of 9 feet. The ship had a gross tonnage of 193 tons and was owned by Wm. F. Colbe of Port Dover. It was registered under the Canadian Official Number 126197. Initially, the CITY OF DRESDEN operated as a passenger vessel, running between Detroit, Dresden, and Wallaceburg.
Over the years, the CITY OF DRESDEN underwent several rebuilds and modifications. In 1888, it was rebuilt to run between Sandusky and Canadian ports. Another rebuild took place in 1910, altering its dimensions to 93 feet in length, 23.16 feet in width, and 8.66 feet in depth. The gross tonnage increased to 132 tons, while the registered tonnage was 76 tons.
On November 18, 1922, the CITY OF DRESDEN met its tragic end. It was wrecked near Port Rowan, Ontario, on the south side of Long Point in Lake Erie. The ship, which was carrying illegal liquor, was driven into the shallows during a storm and wrecked. Initial newspaper reports mistakenly stated that the vessel had foundered. Fortunately, two local women played a crucial role in rescuing the crew, while others focused on salvaging the cargo. Unfortunately, one person, Peregrine McQueen, the captain’s son, lost his life in the incident.
The CITY OF DRESDEN was registered out of Windsor and owned by Captain J. E. McQueen of Amherstberg. At the time of the wreck, the ship was valued at $12,000 and was classified as a tug. It is worth noting that one source indicates the vessel remained registered until at least 1937.
The historical records provide varying details about the dimensions and ownership of the CITY OF DRESDEN. The vessel’s specifications are mentioned as 93 feet in length, 23.5 feet in width, and 9 feet in depth, with a gross tonnage of 193 tons. It is listed as a wooden propeller ship primarily used for package freight.
The wrecking of the CITY OF DRESDEN remains a significant event in the maritime history of Lake Erie. The ship’s tragic end serves as a reminder of the risks and dangers faced by vessels during storms on the Great Lakes.
