- Vessel Name: Atlas
- Year of Build: 1817
- Built at: Richland (Salmon River), New York
- Vessel Type: Schooner
- Hull Materials: Wood
- Number of Decks: 1
- Power and Masts
- Number of Masts: 2
- Hull Dimensions
- Tonnage (Old Style): 23 tons
Vessel Type #
The Atlas was a small, two-masted wooden schooner built in 1817 at Richland, near the Salmon River in New York. With a tonnage of only 23 tons, the Atlas was among the smaller vessels sailing Lake Ontario, typically used for transporting goods or passengers between local ports. Schooners like the Atlas played a critical role in early trade across the Great Lakes, enabling the movement of smaller cargoes between the growing settlements and towns along the lakeshore.
History #
The Atlas was first enrolled in Oswego, New York, in 1817 and operated along the southern shores of Lake Ontario. In 1821, it was re-enrolled in Genesee, New York, continuing its service transporting goods on the lake.
However, on December 13, 1821, the Atlas encountered a powerful winter storm while sailing near the Salmon River. The harsh weather conditions overwhelmed the small schooner, leading to its wreck and the tragic loss of five lives. Such sudden and dangerous storms were common on Lake Ontario during winter, and vessels like the Atlas were particularly vulnerable due to their size and wooden construction.
Final Disposition #
The Atlas was wrecked near the Salmon River on December 13, 1821, resulting in the loss of the vessel and five crew members. The storm’s force likely led to the schooner’s complete destruction, and no records exist indicating any salvage or recovery attempts. The exact details of the wreck remain largely unknown, with its remains likely buried under sediment in the waters near the mouth of the Salmon River.
Located By & Date #
There are no modern records of the Atlas wreck being located or recovered. Given the vessel’s small size and the early date of the wreck, it is possible that any remnants have been buried under the lakebed or eroded by time and the elements.
NOTMARs & Advisories #
There are no current navigational hazards or Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the wreck of the Atlas. However, the area around the Salmon River is known to be a difficult navigation point due to frequently rough weather on Lake Ontario, which has historically led to multiple shipwrecks in the region
Resources & Links #
•Maritime History of the Great Lakes
Conclusion #
The Atlas represents the early schooners that once sailed Lake Ontario, connecting settlements through the transport of goods and passengers. The wreck of the Atlas in 1821 highlights the dangers faced by vessels during that era, particularly in the unforgiving winter conditions that often arose on the Great Lakes. Though small in size, the Atlas played a vital role in the region’s development before meeting its tragic fate.
