Identification & Site Information

  • Name: Britannia
  • Type: Sidewheel Steamer
  • Built: 1833, Montreal, Quebec
  • Builder: Unspecified (commissioned by John & David Torrance)
  • Dimensions (Initial):
    • Length: 132 ft 3 in (40.3 m)
    • Beam: 26 ft 4 in (8.0 m)
    • Depth: 8 ft (2.4 m)
  • Dimensions (Post-Rebuild):
    • Length: 130 ft (39.6 m)
    • Beam: 24 ft (7.3 m)
  • Tonnage: 298 56/94 tons (old style)
  • Propulsion: Sidewheels powered by a vertical beam (walking beam) engine, capable of approx. 12 mph (19.3 km/h)
  • Final Location: Initially sank at Kingston, Ontario; dismantled at Garden Island, Ontario
  • Date of Wreck: November 1833 (sinking), 1856 (dismantling)

Vessel Type Description

The Britannia was a sidewheel passenger and freight Steamer—a prevalent design in the early 19th century. Equipped with a vertical Walking Beam Engine driving paddle wheels on either side of the Hull, she represented cutting-edge Steamboat technology for inland waterways. These vessels were known for their moderate speed, maneuverability, and upscale accommodations, serving as vital links between major Great Lakes ports.

History

Constructed in 1833 in Montreal for prominent merchants John & David Torrance, the Britannia was outfitted for luxury travel. It featured separate cabins for ladies and gentlemen, a steerage compartment, and a full-length promenade Deck—a hallmark of passenger comfort.

In November 1833, not long after entering service, she sank in Kingston, Ontario under unclear circumstances. The vessel was subsequently raised and Rebuilt in 1839, with minor adjustments to Hull dimensions. Throughout her career, Britannia underwent several ownership changes, reflecting the volatile commercial climate of the period.

After over 20 years of service on Lake Ontario, Britannia was dismantled in 1856 at Garden Island. Her steam engine was salvaged and reused in the construction of the Steamer Wellington, continuing her mechanical legacy beyond the vessel’s structural lifespan.

Final Disposition

Britannia was dismantled at Garden Island in 1856. Her Walking Beam Engine was repurposed into another vessel, Wellington, a common practice reflecting the high value of marine machinery during the period.

Located By & Date Found

Not applicable. The Britannia was fully dismantled, and no underwater wreck site is known. Her salvage and reuse are well-documented in contemporary maritime records.

NOTMARs & Advisories

None noted.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The Britannia reflects the pioneering age of Great Lakes steamboats—designed for comfort, commerce, and technological innovation. Her early sinking and Rebuild exemplify resilience in 19th-century ship management. Although dismantled, her engine’s reuse symbolizes continuity in maritime engineering. The Britannia holds a foundational place in Lake Ontario’s early steam navigation history.

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