The Simpson Shipbuilding Company was a prominent shipyard located in Owen Sound, Ontario, situated on the shores of Lake Huron. The shipyard played a significant role in the maritime history of the Great Lakes region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Founded by Melancthon Simpson in the mid-1800s, the Simpson Shipbuilding Company became known for its expertise in constructing wooden vessels, including steamships and sailing vessels. The shipyard’s strategic location on Lake Huron made it well-suited for building ships that would navigate the Great Lakes.
Owen Sound, a port city on Georgian Bay, provided easy access to Lake Huron and the other Great Lakes, making it an ideal location for shipbuilding and shipping operations. The Simpson Shipbuilding Company capitalized on this advantageous position, establishing a reputation for constructing sturdy and reliable vessels that could withstand the challenges of navigating the Great Lakes.
The shipyard in Owen Sound produced numerous ships, including the CITY OF MIDLAND, which was built in 1890. This propeller vessel was among the notable vessels constructed by the Simpson Shipbuilding Company. The company’s shipbuilding expertise contributed to the growth of the maritime industry in the region and facilitated transportation, trade, and commerce on the Great Lakes.
Throughout its operation, the Simpson Shipbuilding Company played a vital role in supporting the economic development of Owen Sound and the surrounding communities. The shipyard provided employment opportunities and contributed to the prosperity of the region by fueling trade and transportation along Lake Huron and the Great Lakes.
Although the Simpson Shipbuilding Company is no longer in operation today, its legacy as a renowned shipyard in Owen Sound endures. The ships built by the company, including those constructed for various shipping companies and owners, remain a part of the rich maritime heritage of Lake Huron and the Great Lakes region.
