Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Trade Wind
- Type: Schooner
- Year Built: 1853
- Builder: Peter Lamoree
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: 181 tons
- Location: Kingston Harbour, Ontario
- Official Number: 88637
- Original Owners: J.M. Grover
- Number of Masts: Two or more
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Trade Wind was a schooner, a type of sailing vessel that was commonly used in the 19th century for coastal and Great Lakes trade. Schooners are characterized by their fore-and-aft rigged sails on two or more masts, which made them highly maneuverable and suited for navigating the inland waterways of North America. The Trade Wind, built in 1853, exemplified the robust and versatile design of these vessels, which were the workhorses of maritime trade during this era.
Description
The Trade Wind was launched in June 1853 in Colborne, Canada West (now Ontario), and was the first vessel built in that location. The launch was a significant local event, attended by a large crowd, including ladies who presented the owner, J.M. Grover, with a flag. The ship was constructed by the skilled shipbuilder Peter Lamoree, who was praised for his craftsmanship.
History
Throughout its operational life, the Trade Wind encountered several significant incidents. In 1869, it lost its jibboom in a collision in Chicago, and in October 1873, it lost its rudder while carrying iron ore from Cobourg to Cleveland, necessitating a tow by the revenue cutter Commodore Perry to Erie. In April 1877, the ship suffered damage when it was driven against a dock by strong winds and hail, causing a hole in its starboard side.
The Trade Wind continued to be active in maritime trade, particularly between Whitby and Colborne. However, in April 1909, the vessel caught fire while at the Kingston and Pembroke wharf in Kingston Harbour, suffering significant damage. The fire caused a financial loss of $1,500, partially covered by insurance.
Significant Incidents
- 1869: Lost jibboom in a collision in Chicago.
- October 1873: Lost rudder while carrying iron ore from Cobourg to Cleveland.
- April 1877: Suffered damage from strong winds and hail.
- April 5, 1909: Caught fire in Kingston Harbour, leading to its destruction.
Final Disposition
The Trade Wind met a tragic end on April 5, 1909, when it caught fire and was burned in Kingston Harbour. The severity of the damage led to the vessel’s registry being officially closed on March 30, 1911. The loss of the Trade Wind was a notable event, marking the end of its long and storied history on the Great Lakes.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The Trade Wind was destroyed by fire in Kingston Harbour, and any remains are likely to be minimal or non-existent due to the nature of the fire. The site is not marked or accessible for diving or exploration.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”trade-wind-c-88637″ title=”References & Links”]
The Trade Wind‘s history reflects the challenges faced by maritime vessels operating on the Great Lakes in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Despite its loss, the Trade Wind remains a notable example of the schooners that were vital to the economic development of Ontario’s coastal towns.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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