Myrtle – St. Lawrence River Steamer Shipwreck

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Myrtle
• Type: Steamer
• Year Built:
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: Near Clayton, New York

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Myrtle was a wooden-hulled steamer, typical of mid-19th-century Great Lakes vessels. These steamers were integral to regional transportation and commerce, often carrying passengers and freight across the lakes. Their wooden construction, while standard for the era, made them susceptible to fire, especially with the use of open flames for lighting.

Description

The steamer Myrtle met a tragic fate near Clayton, New York, when a lantern explosion onboard led to a catastrophic fire. The explosion scattered burning oil throughout the vessel, rapidly engulfing it in flames. Despite efforts to control the blaze, the fire consumed the steamer entirely, resulting in a total loss. The financial impact was significant, with the vessel valued at $7,000 but insured for only $1,200, highlighting the challenges of maritime insurance during that period.

History

The Myrtle was completely destroyed by the fire, leaving no substantial wreckage. The exact location near Clayton, New York, remains unspecified, and any remnants have likely deteriorated or been reclaimed by the environment over time.

Significant Incidents

• Lantern explosion onboard led to a catastrophic fire.
• Fire consumed the vessel entirely, resulting in a total loss.

Final Disposition

The Myrtle was completely destroyed by the fire, leaving no substantial wreckage. The exact location near Clayton, New York, remains unspecified, and any remnants have likely deteriorated or been reclaimed by the environment over time.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Given the total destruction by fire and the passage of time, it is unlikely that any identifiable remains of the Myrtle exist today. The site is presumed inaccessible and holds little for maritime archaeologists or divers.

Resources & Links

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There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the Myrtle. The absence of significant wreckage suggests the site does not pose any modern navigational hazards.