Birmingham (Alciope United Kingdom)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Birmingham
• Type: Schooner (originally Paddle Wheel Vessel)
• Year Built: 1828
• Builder: Unknown
• Dimensions: Length: 140 ft (42.67 m); Beam: 48 ft (14.63 m); Depth of hold:
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: Oswego, New York
• Original Owners: Robert Hamilton, A. Heron, H. Smith

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type Description

The vessel underwent significant transformations over its lifetime:

• Alciope (1828): A paddle wheel vessel, notable for its elegant design and advanced propulsion system for the era.
• United Kingdom (1832): A rebuild enhanced the vessel’s passenger amenities, adding a redesigned cabin structure, extended dining areas, and modernized engines, retaining its paddle wheel propulsion.
• Birmingham (1835): After a wreck in Oswego, New York, the vessel was reconstructed as a schooner, transitioning from steam to sail.

Description

Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Names: Alciope → United Kingdom → Birmingham
• Type: Paddle Wheel Vessel (originally) → Schooner (after rebuild)
• Built: 1828, Niagara, Ontario, Canada
• Rebuilt:
  • 1832: Queenston, Ontario (renamed United Kingdom, paddle wheel retained)
  • 1835: Oswego, New York (rebuilt as schooner, renamed Birmingham)
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 140 feet (42.67 meters)
  • Beam: 48 feet (14.63 meters)
• Engine:
  • Original: Sourced from Frontenac, built by Boulton & Watt, London
  • Later engines: Supplied by Drennan & Graham, Cincinnati, Ohio, with specifications of 24×72

History

History

The Alciope was launched in 1828 in Niagara, Ontario, commissioned by Robert Hamilton, a prominent Queenston resident. The vessel’s career was marked by continuous modifications and ownership changes:

• 1828: Initial launch faced delays, with a 10-day postponement due to the vessel being stuck on the ways.
• 1832: Rebuilt in Queenston, Ontario, renamed United Kingdom, and redesigned for increased passenger comfort. Upgrades included new cabins, staterooms, extended dining areas, and the addition of baths.
• 1835: Wrecked in Oswego, New York, on November 11, 1835, following a storm. The vessel was salvaged and rebuilt as a schooner, Birmingham, during the winter of 1834-1835.

Significant Incidents

Significant Incidents

• Wrecked in Oswego, New York, on November 11, 1835, following a storm.

Final Disposition

Final Disposition

The Birmingham met its end when driven from its moorings in Oswego, striking shoals. The event caused significant damage, marking the vessel’s final chapter.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Current Condition & Accessibility

The current condition of the wreck is not documented in the available sources. Accessibility for divers may vary based on local regulations and conditions.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”birmingham-alciope-united-kingdom” title=”References & Links”]

Significance

The Alciope/United Kingdom/Birmingham exemplifies the innovation and challenges of early Great Lakes shipping. Its transformation from paddle wheel vessel to schooner underscores the adaptability of maritime enterprises during the 19th century.