IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

  • Name: Henri Le Blanc
  • Type: French Naval Vessel
  • Year of Construction: Pre-1764
  • Material: Wood
  • Propulsion: Sails
  • Masts: Three
  • Date of Wreck: June 17, 1764
  • Location: Off the shores of Wolfe Island, Lake Ontario
  • Depth: Not specified; likely within navigable depths (0-40 meters / 0-131 feet)
  • Coordinates: Not provided

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The Henri Le Blanc was a wooden three-masted naval ship built for the French Navy. These vessels were designed for military operations, offering a balance of firepower, cargo capacity, and maneuverability. Though specific armaments are not recorded, vessels of this type typically carried cannons and other weaponry to fulfill both defensive and offensive roles during the French colonial era. The ship’s sails provided propulsion, enabling it to navigate Lake Ontario effectively, which was a key strategic location in the mid-18th century.

HISTORY

The Henri Le Blanc served as a French naval vessel during a pivotal time of conflict and colonization in North America. Operating on Lake Ontario, the vessel likely played a role in France’s efforts to maintain dominance in the region amidst British encroachments. Naval ships like the Henri Le Blanc were integral to transporting troops, supplies, and maintaining control over strategic waterways.

The period leading up to the ship’s wreck coincided with the waning French presence in the region following the conclusion of the Seven Years’ War in 1763, which culminated in France ceding much of its North American territories to Britain. By 1764, Lake Ontario remained a contested and strategically important route for trade and military operations.

FINAL DISPOSITION

On June 17, 1764, the Henri Le Blanc encountered a severe storm while navigating near Wolfe Island. Despite the crew’s efforts to weather the gale, the ship succumbed to the harsh conditions, ultimately wrecking on a spit off the island. This disaster reflects the dangers faced by sailors of the era, where unpredictable Great Lakes storms frequently overpowered even the sturdiest ships.

The wreck of the Henri Le Blanc adds to the Maritime History of the Great Lakes, underscoring the perilous nature of naval and commercial operations in this region during the 18th century.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are currently associated with the Henri Le Blanc wreck site. Wolfe Island and its surrounding waters are known to host historical wrecks, and any diving or archaeological work in the area should be conducted with caution.

LOCATED BY & DATE

The exact location and condition of the Henri Le Blanc wreck remain unknown. No modern exploration or documentation has been recorded, leaving its final resting place a mystery for future underwater archaeological surveys.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

The state of the Henri Le Blanc wreck is undocumented, and its accessibility is uncertain. It likely rests undisturbed in Lake Ontario, potentially preserved due to the cold freshwater environment. If located, the wreck could provide invaluable insights into 18th-century French naval architecture and colonial maritime activities.

RESOURCES & LINKS

  • Wolfe Island Historical Society: Research historical accounts of maritime activities near Wolfe Island.
  • Library and Archives Canada: Explore archival materials on French naval operations and shipbuilding.
  • Maritime History of the Great Lakes: A resource for historical context on the region’s naval and commercial shipping history.
  • Relevant Literature: Refer to “Provincial Marine Vessels in Order” for background on vessels operating in similar capacities.

CONCLUSION

The Henri Le Blanc represents a vital piece of 18th-century naval history on Lake Ontario. Its loss during a storm off Wolfe Island in 1764 highlights the challenges faced by naval vessels in this era. While the wreck remains undiscovered, it holds the potential to shed light on French colonial maritime activities and the broader history of naval operations on the Great Lakes.

KEYWORDS

Henri Le Blanc, French naval vessel, Wolfe Island shipwreck, Lake Ontario maritime history, 18th-century shipwreck, Great Lakes navigation, French colonial ships.