IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The ACORN was a wooden schooner built for cargo transport, primarily suited for carrying lumber. It had a single deck and two masts, typical of mid-19th century schooners designed for the Great Lakes trade routes. Initially modest in size, the vessel underwent a significant rebuild in 1855 to increase its capacity and extend its operational life.
HISTORY #
The ACORN was constructed in 1844 in Port Hope, Ontario, by H. Hacker. Originally built with a tonnage of 48 tons, the schooner primarily carried lumber due to its limited capacity. In 1855, the vessel was rebuilt to increase its tonnage to 92 tons (old measurement style) or 165 net tons.
Ownership of the ACORN changed several times, with Robert McIntyre from Port Hope owning it in 1856, and later William Chantt from Port Hope taking ownership in 1863. The schooner faced various challenges during its operational years, including losing its foretopgallant sail in a squall on Lake Ontario in August 1864. By 1865, the vessel’s tonnage was updated to 75 gross tons.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
On November 12, 1866, the ACORN suffered significant damage after running ashore at Oswego, New York. Despite repairs, the vessel continued to operate until it met its final fate on October 26, 1869. During a gale, the schooner was driven ashore approximately 1 mile east of Oswego harbor while carrying a cargo of lumber. The vessel was badly damaged and was ultimately abandoned near Fort Ontario.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) currently issued for the ACORN wreck site, but the area around Oswego harbor is known for hazardous conditions, especially during storms.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The exact date and details of the wreck’s discovery are not documented, but it is well-known in local maritime history.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Great Lakes Ships Website
- Buffalo Commercial Advertiser October 27, 1869
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes Website
- Buffalo Daily Courier October 28, 1869
- Buffalo Daily Courier October 30, 1869
- Buffalo Commercial Advertiser October 30, 1869
