IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
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VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The AMERICAN was a wooden schooner, a type of sailing vessel used extensively on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Built in 1870 by Asa Wilcox in Three Mile Bay, New York, the schooner was designed for the transportation of bulk goods such as coal, timber, and other commodities essential to the regional economy. With its large sails and sturdy construction, the AMERICAN was typical of the robust schooners that navigated the often challenging waters of the Great Lakes.
HISTORY #
The AMERICAN had a notable career following its construction in 1870. Initially owned by A. Wilcox from Three Mile Bay, New York, the vessel was employed in the transportation of goods across Lake Ontario and beyond. Over the years, the ownership of the AMERICAN changed hands several times. By 1879, it was owned by Becker & Putnam of Clayton, New York, and by 1894, T. Donavan from Oswego, New York, was listed as the owner.
The schooner was primarily used for hauling bulk cargoes, with coal being a common load, given its importance as a fuel source during that era. On an unspecified date, the AMERICAN embarked on a voyage to Prescott, Ontario, while being towed by the tug PROTOR. Unfortunately, the schooner met its demise near Stony Point in Lake Ontario. The specific reasons for the sinking are not recorded, but the incident resulted in the vessel being lost to the lake.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The final chapter in the AMERICAN’s history occurred on October 1, 1894, when the schooner foundered between Oswego and Stony Point. The circumstances surrounding the sinking remain unclear, but the vessel was carrying a cargo of coal at the time. Fortunately, the crew members were able to escape safely, avoiding any loss of life. The schooner’s remains are now located at coordinates 43.83493, -76.43574, near Stony Point in Lake Ontario.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SITE #
The sinking of the AMERICAN is significant as it represents the end of a typical Great Lakes schooner that played an important role in regional commerce. The wreck site near Stony Point is an important historical location, providing insights into the construction and operation of schooners during the late 19th century. The vessel’s final cargo of coal underscores its role in the industrial activities of the time.
The location of the wreck offers opportunities for further exploration and study, which could reveal more about the circumstances of the sinking and the life of the vessel.
FUTURE EXPLORATION AND PRESERVATION #
The wreck of the AMERICAN at the specified coordinates presents a valuable archaeological site. Preservation efforts should focus on protecting the site from unauthorized disturbances and documenting the remains for historical and educational purposes. Exploration of the wreck could provide additional information about the vessel’s construction, cargo, and the events leading to its sinking.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Great Lakes Ships – C. Patrick Labadie Collection: A comprehensive resource with historical information on Great Lakes vessels, including the AMERICAN.
- Donald V. Baut – C. Patrick Labadie Collection: Additional records and narratives related to the schooner.
- Board of Lake Underwriters Marine Directory: Provides information on ship registrations and ownership changes.
- Inland Lloyds’ Marine Directory: A directory of inland vessels, useful for tracing the history of the AMERICAN.
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes Website: Newspaper clippings and historical records that document the history and fate of Great Lakes vessels.
- Steamboat Era in the Muskokas by Richard Tatley: Contextual information on the maritime era during which the AMERICAN operated.
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: A database of shipwrecks, including the AMERICAN.
