Unidentified Barges – Grand Island NY

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8 to 10 Scuttled Barges 10 – 30ffw 10m depths Spread out over shore line  Grand Island, Niagara River New York

Grand Island, situated in the middle of the upper Niagara River, holds within its scenic beauty a tale of industrialization and transformation that unfolded in the early 19th century. At the heart of this narrative lies the establishment of Whitehaven, a sawmill town that played a crucial role in shaping the island’s history.

In the year 1830, the East Boston Company, driven by the allure of Grand Island’s abundant white oak trees, made a pivotal decision to purchase land on this picturesque stretch of the Niagara River. The goal was clear – to harness the vast timber resources for industrial purposes.

By 1834, Whitehaven emerged on the East River shore of Grand Island, named in honor of Stephen White, the manager of the East Boston Company. The town was home to what was reputed to be the largest sawmill of its time, a behemoth 150 feet square. This marked the beginning of a transformative period for both the island and the burgeoning settlement.

The East Boston Company wasted no time in realizing the potential of Grand Island’s oak forest. The logging operations were swift, and by 1836, the sawmill was operating at full capacity, producing frames for ships of impressive size – up to 700 tons. These ship components were transported down the Erie Canal to Albany and eventually found their way to Boston Harbor, contributing to the maritime industry.

Whitehaven flourished as an active town until approximately 1840 when a significant shift occurred. The once-abundant oak trees, the lifeblood of the sawmill operations, were depleted. The island’s landscape, once covered in flourishing forests, now bore the marks of industrial exploitation. The sawmill, once the heartbeat of Whitehaven, ceased its operations, marking the end of an era.

Today, little remains of the original town that was once a hub of industry. The hundreds of feet of docks that once bustled with activity have faded into history. However, the Whitehaven Cemetery along the East River road stands as a poignant reminder of the town’s existence, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who were part of this industrial endeavor.

The story of Whitehaven encapsulates the intricate relationship between industry and nature, showcasing the transient nature of such ventures. Grand Island, once a canvas of lush white oak forests, became the backdrop for a bustling sawmill town that played a significant role in shaping the maritime industry of its time. Today, as we reflect on this historical chapter, we recognize the importance of preserving such narratives that contribute to our understanding of the dynamic evolution of landscapes and communities.