Carrier (1862)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Carrier
• Type: River Barge
• Year Built: 1862
• Builder: P. Coulter, J.B. Auger
• Dimensions: 93.33 ft (28.45 m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage: 143.54 tons
• Location: St. Lawrence River, Inner Harbour
• Official Number: Not available
• Original Owners: J. & H. McLennan; St. Lawrence & Chicago Forwarding; Geo. Chaffey
• Number of Masts: Not specified

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Carrier was a wooden river barge, typical of its era, designed for bulk cargo transportation along the St. Lawrence River. Its round stern and capacity for 11,000 bushels made it ideal for carrying heavy materials such as coal. Propelled by wind and current, the barge was well-suited to the river’s navigational demands during the mid-19th century.

Description

The Carrier was a wooden river barge, typical of its era, designed for bulk cargo transportation along the St. Lawrence River. Its round stern and capacity for 11,000 bushels made it ideal for carrying heavy materials such as coal. Propelled by wind and current, the barge was well-suited to the river’s navigational demands during the mid-19th century.

History

Built in 1862 by P. Coulter, J.B. Auger in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Ownership:

• 1862–1864: Owned by J. & H. McLennan, operating primarily between Montreal and Kingston, supplying coal to gas companies.
• 1870–1877: Ownership transferred to St. Lawrence & Chicago Forwarding, under the operation of Coulthurst & McPhee.
• Final Owner: Geo. Chaffey.

Operational Milestones:

• 1863: Initially rated 1 out of 3, reflecting average condition.
• 1864: Rating improved to A, indicating enhancements or rebuild.
• 1870: Underwent a significant rebuild to update its cargo capacity and durability.
• The barge was consistently valued at $2,500, highlighting its utility in cargo operations.

The Carrier served as a critical link in the coal transportation chain, catering to the growing energy demands of urban centers along the St. Lawrence River.

Significant Incidents

The Carrier sank in the St. Lawrence River, leading to the closure of its registry on March 9, 1880. While the exact circumstances of its sinking remain undocumented, the vessel’s advanced age and the challenging conditions of river navigation likely contributed to its demise.

Final Disposition

The Carrier sank in the St. Lawrence River, leading to the closure of its registry on March 9, 1880. While the exact circumstances of its sinking remain undocumented, the vessel’s advanced age and the challenging conditions of river navigation likely contributed to its demise.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The condition of the wreck is unknown, as it has not been documented. Accessibility for diving or research purposes remains speculative.

Resources & Links

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The Carrier exemplifies the critical role of river barges in supporting Canada’s industrial expansion during the mid-19th century. Designed to transport coal, a vital resource for the gas industry, the barge’s operational history reflects the importance of maritime commerce in sustaining urban infrastructure. Its rebuild in 1870 highlights the adaptability required to maintain these vessels in challenging conditions. The sinking of the Carrier is emblematic of the risks inherent in river navigation at the time. While many vessels of its era faced similar fates, the lack of detailed records regarding its final voyage adds an element of mystery to its story. The Carrier serves as a historical touchstone for understanding the evolution of cargo transport on Canadian waterways during a transformative period in the country’s economic development.