Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Utica
- Type: Wooden steamboat (tug & excursion)
- Year Built: 1849
- Builder: Sacket’s Harbor, NY
- Dimensions: Not documented
- Registered Tonnage: 59 t.
- Location: Near Port Ontario, Lake Ontario
- Coordinates: Unknown
- Official Number: None
- Original Owners: Mr. Snow and associates
- Number of Masts: Unknown
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Utica was a wooden steamboat designed for both tug and excursion purposes, reflecting the versatile nature of mid-19th century vessels.
Description
The Utica was a small wooden steamboat of 59 tons, built at Sacket’s Harbor in 1849. Designed for versatility, she was employed both as a tugboat to aid shipping on the Genesee River and as a pleasure excursion vessel for Lake Ontario. Her size and dual-use role reflected the economic adaptability demanded of steamboat owners in the mid-19th century.
History
The vessel was acquired by Mr. Snow and associates, who outfitted her to perform both commercial towing and leisure cruises. This dual role was characteristic of regional steamers of the era, maximizing returns on investment through multiple revenue streams.
On her final voyage, the Utica departed Sacket’s Harbor bound for the mouth of the Genesee River. Caught in a storm, she sought refuge at Oswego but continued on at night. Mistaking the Port Ontario Light for the Oswego Light, her captain miscalculated the vessel’s position and ran her ashore near Port Ontario, approximately 20 miles east of her intended destination. The grounding left her high on the shoreline, nearly out of the water.
Significant Incidents
- Grounded due to navigational error, mistaking Port Ontario Light for Oswego Light.
Final Disposition
Although salvage was attempted, including plans to remove machinery and lighten the hull, the Utica was too badly damaged to refloat. She was abandoned where she grounded and declared a total loss.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Not rediscovered; likely destroyed by surf and decay. The vessel is grounded and destroyed in situ, with no current accessibility for diving.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”utica-1849″ title=”References & Links”]
The Utica serves as a historical reminder of the challenges faced by 19th-century navigators and the importance of accurate navigation in maritime operations.
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