Shipwreck Report: Albert

Vessel Type Description

The Albert was a wooden Steamboat constructed by D. & J. McCarthy in Sorel, Quebec, in 1867. Designed as an Ottawa River Tug, the Albert was well-suited for towing and maneuvering vessels along the river’s challenging waterways. With a single Deck and a Gross Tonnage of 195 tons, the Albert played a crucial role in regional commerce and transportation. Tugboats like the Albert were essential for ensuring the smooth navigation of cargo and Passenger Vessels on the river.

History

The Albert was owned by the Sincennes-McNaughton company, a major player in the Ottawa River’s maritime operations. The vessel contributed to the economic development of the region, particularly in the movement of goods along the Ottawa River, a vital trade route in the 19th century.

Built by the renowned shipbuilders D. & J. McCarthy, the Albert was recognized for its durability and reliability. Its custoom-house tonnage of 104 tons, recorded before 1877, reflected its capacity for towing tasks and cargo operations. Over its 17 years of service, the Albert exemplified the robust and effective designs of Canadian shipbuilding in the late 19th century.

Tragically, the Albert was destroyed by fire on October 7, 1884, while docked at the Carillon Canal in Quebec. The circumstances leading to the fire remain unclear, but the incident marked the end of the vessel’s valuable contributions to Ottawa River navigation.

Final Disposition

The fire that consumed the Albert left it irreparable, and the vessel was declared a Total Loss. The site of the wreck in the Carillon Canal likely became part of the region’s submerged historical artifacts, though no significant recovery efforts were documented.

Notmar & Advisories

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the wreck of the Albert.

Resources & Links

  • Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Records and accounts related to vessels operating in the Great Lakes and surrounding regions.
  • Quebec Historical Archives: Additional research material on 19th-century steamboats and regional maritime history.
  • Wikipedia – Oka, Quebec

Keywords Albert, Steamboat, Tugboat, Sorel Quebec, Ottawa River, Sincennes-McNaughton, Carillon Canal, Wooden Shipwreck, 19th-century Maritime History, D. & J. McCarthy, Fire Incident.

Conclusion

The Albert exemplifies the integral role of tugboats in the development of Canada’s maritime trade and transportation during the 19th century. Its construction by D. & J. McCarthy, a respected shipbuilding firm, and its operation by the Sincennes-McNaughton company underline its significance in regional commerce. The tragic fire that ended the Albert’s service in 1884 also serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by wooden vessels of the era. Though gone, the Albert remains a symbol of the industrious spirit of Canadian maritime history.