IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
- Original Name: CAROLINE
- Rebuilt Name: B.W. FOLGER
- Type: Three-Masted Wooden Schooner
- Dimensions (Post-Rebuild): Length: 83 feet (25.3 m) Beam: 24 feet (7.3 m) Depth: 9 feet (2.7 m)
- Tonnage: Gross: 152 tons Net: 117 tons Build Date: 1854
- Builder: Minikin, Prince Edward County, Ontario
- Rebuilder: Wm. Powers, Kingston, Ontario (1871)
- Final Location: Kerr Point, Amherst Island, Lake Ontario
- Coordinates: 44.1637302, -76.7021727
- Depth: 10 to 30 feet (3 to 9 meters)
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION
The B.W. FOLGER, originally launched as the CAROLINE, was a robust wooden Schooner designed for transporting bulk cargo such as coal across the Great Lakes. After its reconstruction in 1871, the vessel became better equipped to handle the demands of Great Lakes navigation. Its history reflects the persistence of shipowners to keep vessels operational through rebuilds, despite the challenges posed by aging infrastructure and harsh conditions.
HISTORY
The Schooner CAROLINE was constructed in 1854 by Minikin in Prince Edward County, Ontario. In 1871, it was substantially Rebuilt in Kingston by Wm. Powers and renamed B.W. FOLGER. This Rebuild increased the vessel’s capacity and extended its operational life.
The B.W. FOLGER served in the coal and general cargo trade on Lake Ontario, enduring several maritime incidents:
- September 1871: Shortly after its Rebuild, the Schooner grounded at Port Colborne, Lake Erie, while carrying coal. It was released with minor damage.
- July 1874: Ran aground and sprang a leak in the Bay of Quinte, causing financial loss.
- 1880: Grounded near Main Duck Island but was freed and returned to service.
- 1893 Gale: Lost its main gaff topsail and flying jib, but it survived.
Ownership changes during its service life include:
FINAL DISPOSITION
On November 24, 1894, the B.W. FOLGER burned in the Bay of Quinte, marking the end of its service. Fire damage rendered the vessel irreparable. Prior to this, it had endured a history of groundings, leaks, and severe weather conditions that foreshadowed its ultimate demise.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES
- No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) relate to the site.
- Divers and explorers should exercise caution due to potential structural instability.
LOCATED BY & DATE
The wreck of the B.W. FOLGER lies at Kerr Point, Amherst Island, Lake Ontario. The exact date of discovery is undocumented, but it has been noted in historical records and is recognized as a dive site.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY
Condition: The wreck is in shallow water (10-30 feet), and parts of the Hull and other structural elements are likely visible but deteriorated due to age and fire damage.
Accessibility: Accessible to divers and possibly visible from the surface in clear water conditions.
RESOURCES & LINKS
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: Comprehensive historical data on the B.W. FOLGER.
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Repository of Great Lakes vessel records.
- Bay of Quinte Historical Society: Information on local maritime history.
ANALYSIS
The B.W. FOLGER highlights the resilience and adaptability of schooners navigating the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Its numerous rebuilds and persistent service underscore the economic necessity of maintaining these vessels despite frequent incidents. The wreck serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by mariners and the enduring legacy of wooden schooners in the region.
KEYWORDS
B.W. FOLGER, CAROLINE, Schooner, Lake Ontario, Amherst Island, shipwreck, maritime history, 19th-century navigation, Bay of Quinte, coal trade, Great Lakes.