London (1848)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: London
• Type: Fore-and-aft Schooner (originally a propeller vessel before conversion)
• Year Built: Rebuilt in 1848
• Builder: Cobourg, Ontario
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage: 63 tons
• Location: Near Big Sodus, Lake Ontario
• Coordinates: Exact coordinates not documented
• Original Owners: Sutherland & Co., Port Hope, Ontario

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The London was a fore-and-aft schooner, a versatile and widely used cargo vessel in the mid-19th century. Initially built as a propeller-driven vessel, the London was rebuilt and reclassified as a schooner in 1848 at Cobourg. With a tonnage of 63, the vessel was suited for the transport of bulk cargo, especially lumber, which was a key trade good in the region.

Description

The London was built in Cobourg, Ontario, in 1843 and primarily served the bustling lumber trade on Lake Ontario. Owned by Sutherland & Co. of Port Hope, the vessel was frequently employed in transporting timber between Ontario ports and nearby American harbours.

History

On October 27, 1858, while en route to Big Sodus, the London encountered harsh weather conditions. Under the command of Captain Griggs, the schooner ran aground on the pier at Big Sodus. Salvage efforts by the wrecking tug A.S. PAGE were unsuccessful, and the vessel was declared a total loss. However, the lumber cargo was salvaged successfully, mitigating financial losses.

Significant Incidents

• October 27, 1858: The London ran aground on the pier at Big Sodus due to harsh weather conditions.
• Salvage efforts by the wrecking tug A.S. PAGE were unsuccessful, leading to the vessel being declared a total loss.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the London was left stranded near the Big Sodus pier in Lake Ontario, marking the end of its service. Attempts to refloat the vessel proved futile due to extensive damage and challenging weather conditions.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The exact coordinates of the wreck have not been documented, but it is reported to be near the pier at Big Sodus, Lake Ontario. Navigational hazards and adverse weather conditions, particularly near the pier at Big Sodus, were significant contributors to the wreck of the London. Mariners should exercise caution in this region during rough weather.

Resources & Links

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The London, a rebuilt fore-and-aft schooner, served as a vital part of the Lake Ontario lumber trade until its loss in 1858 near Big Sodus. Although salvage crews recovered its cargo, the vessel itself was declared irrecoverable. Its wreck remains a part of the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes.