DENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION:
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION:
The Geraldine Battle began its life as the Puritan, a wooden propeller passenger steamer designed to transport both passengers and cargo efficiently across the Great Lakes. Built with significant power and spacious accommodations, the vessel was equipped with high-capacity engines and boilers, reflecting the advanced engineering of the time. Over the years, it underwent multiple conversions, transitioning from a passenger steamer to a sand boat, and ultimately, a bulk barge under the name Geraldine Battle. This final role saw the vessel dedicated to transporting gravel, a crucial material for construction and infrastructure.
HISTORY:
The vessel was originally launched as the Puritan in 1893, constructed by R. Mills & Company in Buffalo, New York. The Puritan served as a passenger steamer for several years, plying the waters of the Great Lakes with efficiency and reliability. However, its role evolved over time, reflecting the changing needs of the maritime industry.
In 1902, the vessel was converted into a sand boat and renamed Sandy Hook. This transition marked the beginning of a more utilitarian phase in its service life. Unfortunately, the Sandy Hook experienced several fires—first in Buffalo in 1901 while moored, and later during winter quarters on the Erie Canal in 1905. Despite these setbacks, the vessel was repaired and continued to serve.
By 1906, under the ownership of James Battle, the vessel underwent a significant conversion into a barge, with its powerful engine repurposed for another ship, the J. Kelderhouse. The vessel was subsequently renamed Geraldine Battle in 1908 and registered as a Canadian vessel.
The Geraldine Battle played a vital role in the transportation of gravel, a crucial commodity for the growing infrastructure demands in Ontario. The vessel was a key asset to the Canadian Sand & Gravel Co., reflecting the adaptive reuse of maritime vessels on the Great Lakes.
FINAL DISPOSITION:
On October 21, 1916, while unloading gravel in Thorold, Ontario, the Geraldine Battle caught fire and was completely destroyed. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and there is no record of loss of life. The fiery end of the Geraldine Battle marked the conclusion of a vessel that had served in various capacities over its 23-year lifespan.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES:
- None applicable: The wreck was destroyed by fire, with no remaining hazards reported.
LOCATED BY & DATE:
- The Geraldine Battle was destroyed by fire on October 21, 1916, in Thorold, Ontario.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY:
- Current Condition: The Geraldine Battle was completely destroyed by fire. No known remnants of the vessel exist today.
- Accessibility: There are no physical remains to access for diving or exploration.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
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References:
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Further Reading:
- “Great Lakes Vessels: The Stories of Our Ships” – For more context on vessels like the Geraldine Battle.
CONCLUSION:
The Geraldine Battle, originally launched as the Puritan in 1893, is a compelling example of the versatility and endurance of Great Lakes vessels. Over its 23 years, the ship evolved from a passenger steamer to a bulk barge, adapting to the changing demands of the maritime industry. Despite facing numerous challenges, including multiple fires, the vessel continued to serve until its ultimate destruction in 1916. The Geraldine Battle’s story is a testament to the resilience of ships and the crucial role they played in the development of industries along the Great Lakes.
KEYWORDS: Geraldine Battle, Puritan, Sandy Hook, Great Lakes, ship conversion, bulk barge, Canadian Sand & Gravel, Thorold Ontario, ship fire, maritime history
