Upper Mersey built sailing vessels - pre 1860.

Here mainly the larger sea-going vessels, schooners etc, are described. Flats were also built. Also flats were converted into schooners or sloops; and sea-going vessels were retired as dumb barges for estuary use. Those flats included below are mostly a selection whose shipwreck I have previously explored or from sources: list from Schooner Port by H F Starkey, with some extras found in newspapers and in MNL 1872 which lists place of build (so the lists will omit many vessels out of service by 1872). Here mainly 1820-60. Only at Runcorn and Warrington were large sailing vessels built.

Runcorn built sailing vessels (Steam vessels).
1800: Jane Sl 33t ON26713;
1802: Sarah F 57t; Brothers F 38t ON1415;
1803: Hannah F 59t;
1804: Anne F 59t;
1805: Elizabeth F 56t;
1806: Rhydland Trader F 43t ON4237;
1809: Ann Sl 41t (reg Kirkcubright 1811);
1810: British Queen Sr 72t;
1811: John & Ann Sr 58t ON16415;
1815: Jane F 63t;
1823: Sarah F 52t ON1501;
1824: Bessie F 56t; Maria F 46t;
1825: Elizabeth Sm 42t;
1833: Anne F 50t ON52923;
1834: Patent F 45t ON16485;
1837: James & Sarah Sr 63t;
1838: Susan Sr?; Thomas Mason Sr 62t; Thomas Sr 97t ON3389;
1839: Mary & Elizabeth Sr 78t; Elfleda Sr 109t; Gem Sm 33t;
1840: Three Sisters? Sr ?t; John & Henry Sr 72t; British Queen Sr 87t; Thomas Sr 69t; John Sr 55t;
1841: Princess Royal Sr 83t; Margaret Sr 102t; Doris Sr 124t; Catharine Sl 59t; Ann Widnall K 35t; Susannah F 37t; Anne Sr 62t; Susannah F 37t ON16870;
1842: Ellen Sr 69t; Philip Sr 55t; Mersey Sr 92t; Heir Apparent Sr 100t; Hugh Lupus Sr 65t; Alice F 42t;
1843: Mary Jane Sr 111t; Sarah & Ann Sr 81t; Laffak iron barge; Harriet Sr 125t; Commerce F 55t;
1844: Julia Sr 73t; Alice & Ann Sr 35t; Mountain Maid Sl 53t; Martha F 38t ON25070; Sl 53t; Jane F;
1845: Fanny Sr 71t;
1846: Sarah Sr 63t;
1847: Margaret & Martha Sr 66t; The Port Sr 65t; Rosalie Bg 193t; Laurel Sr 110t;
1848: Empress Sr 77t; Duke Sr 80t; Joss? Sl 52t; Speculator F 43t;
1849: William Court Sr 56t; Alice F 42t; Edward & John Sl 29t;
1850: Shamrock Sr 75t; Ellesmere Sr 75t; Ann F 50; Margaret Sm 21t ON24222;
1851: Emperor Sr 70t; Emmeline? Sr 70t; Sir Robert Sr 68t; Eliza F 39t; Rose & Margaret Sl 32t ON1632;
1852: May F 57t;
1853: Eva Bn 134t; Anne Cheshyre S 412t; Anne Walker Sr 111t; Uncle Tom F 61t ON25814; Clara Sr 56t ON25015;
1854: Brackley Sr 88t; June Sr 60t; Alma Sr 77t;
1855: Mary Houghton 71t; Borland Bn 141t; Penmaen Sl 54t;
1856: Reviresco Bg 114t; Dennis Brundrit S 463t; Edward Whitley F; Alma Sr 78t ON1560;
1857: Ellen Owen Bn 132t; Bertha Sr 87t; Cheshire Lass Sr 85t; Selina Bg 199t; Samuel F 67t ON20537; Squall Sl 7t ON14688; Delhi F 57t; Llanfair Sl 52t ON12732; Agnes F 52t ON28185;
1858: Gwydir Sm 55t; Ocean Queen Sm 40t; Star F 37t; Robin F 43t ON26168; Gipsey Queen Sm 31t ON27133; Star F 37t ON58208;
1859: Alice Sr 65t; James Sl 67t ON21057; Lymm Gray Bg 123t; Jessie Sr 69t; Elizabeth & Ann F 55t; Bertie Sm 61t ON27943; King Fisher Sm 35t ON27134;
1860: Juanita Bg 190t; Duck Sm 34t; Aggravator F 37t ON28629; Ann Isaac Sk 27t ON1603;
1861: Lancashire Lass Sr 56t;

Also at Widnes, Woodend, just across the Mersey:
1855: Salt Sr 53t;
1856: Success F 53t ON24375;

Some schooners (and large sloops) were also built at Frodsham [More detail]:
1799: Ann F 60t;
1805: Isaac Pilot cutter;
1794: Mills F 49t ON10662;
1800: Alice Anna F 44t ON7055; Nelson F 54t ON17792;
1802: George F 26t ON10671;
1806: Betsey Sl 42t ON16404;
1810: Viper F 44t ON6973;
1811: Mary Ann Sr 75t;
1812: Lydia Sl 50t ON16409;
1815: Sparling Sr 52t; Waterloo Sr 49t ON9825;
1816: Thomas & Anne Sl 52t; Ann Sl 62t; Kent Ga 100t; Jane & Ann Sr 68t;
1817: Waterloo Sr 61t;
1818: Mary Sr 68t;
1821: Holyhead Trader Sr 57t; Isabella F 42t;
1824: Collins Sl 39t;
1825: Isabella Sr 61t;
1826: Pheasant Sr 57t;
1828: Sarah F 60t ON-;
1831: Frances Sr 66t; Robert Sl 67t;
1832: Gnat F 45t ON1709;
1833: Maria Sl 37t; William Sr 60t;
1834: New John Sl 51t;
1835: James Sr 59t;
1836: Elizabeth Sr 63t; Weaver Sr 49t; William Sl 45t; Hale? F 65t;
1837: Briton Sr 53t;
1838: Sarah Sr 68t; Reliance Sr 83t; George & Sarah Sr 69t;
1839: Kendal Castle Sr 85t; New Importer Sr 47t; Pearl Sr 66t;
1840: Rigby Sr 72t;
1842: Widnes Sr 58t; Frodsham? Sl 55t; Frances Ann F 63t ON1457;
1843; Hannah? Sr 63t;
1844: Hero F 57t;
1846: Ino Sr 85t;
1847: Lydia F 47t;
1851: Mary Ann Sr 67t;
1854: Mary Jane Sr 56t;
1856: Emily Constance Sr 65t;
1857: Unknown Sr 65t; Hannah F 38t;
1858: Mary Bolland Sr 100t; Vixen K 54t; Edward F 64t;
1859: Alice & Mary F 54t;
1860: Mersey F 60t;
1862: Fanny F 40t;

and Fidler's Ferry.
1859: Bream F 72t;

and Sankey Bridges [the canal from Fidler's Ferry to Sankey had locks 68ft x 16.75ft]:
1812: John Sl 36t ON22834;
1814: Wellington Sr 49t;
1819: William Pitt Sr 78t;
1820: Old England F 48t;
1822: John Clare F 56t;
1825: Duke of York F 50t;
1826: Wellington F 33t;
1828: Hugh F 47t;
1829: Clarence Sr 82t;
1830: True Briton F 44t;
1832: Hero F 43t; Ann F 50t ON1993;
1835: Heart of Oak F 41t;
1836: Elizabeth F 51t;
1837: William F 45t;
1840: Bettys F 43t;
1841: Martha F 37t; Ann? F 43t;
1842: Sarah F 45t;
1843: Margaret F 43t;
1844: Alfred F 54t;
1846: Britannia F 60t;
1855: Adelaide F 57t ON7025;
1857: Jane F 53t;
1860: Gilbert Greenall Sl 45t;

Sailing vessels built at St Helens. The Sankey Navigation (St Helens Canal) was opened in 1757, linking St Helens to the Mersey. Several vessels built at St Helens were later used for sea-going, so registered as such:
1800: Mark F 53t;
1815: Marchioness of Anglesea Sr 65t ON23336;
1828: Elizabeth F 48t;
1825: Thomas F 57t;
1829: Black Diamond F 45t;
1834: William Edward Sr 65t; Margaret Sr 67t;
1835: George F 62t ON10543;
1841: Julia F 65t ON10546;
1842: Mary F 61t ON17774; Victoria Sr 53t ON25773;
1849: Harriet F 68t ON10521;
1851: Ada 51t;

and shipyards on the River Weaver at Northwich, and Winsford, etc [The Weaver navigation had locks 88ft x 17.3ft by this date, with a depth of 6ft]
Here Northwich, including Witton, Castle, and Leftwich, [More detail and Thompson builder]:
1776: Hopewell Sl 40t ON2376;
1784: Robert F 44t ON1241;
1786: Ashton F 48t ON20550;
1787: Brothers F 69t ON26722;
1796: Peggy K 54 ON6006; Peter S 58t ON1576;
1797: Harry 56t ON6952;
1798: Admiral Nelson Sr 51t ON16419; Sarah F 52t ON6005;
1800: Alice F 58t ON5997; Pellow F 48t ON17286; Sir Sidney Sl 45t ON1863;
1801: Adelphia F 47t;
1807: Friendship F 49t ON48773; John F 59t ON2350; Lawton F 55t ON2358;
1810: Mary F 57t ON7049; William F 50t ON25935;
1811: Jane F 44t ON16276; Mary F 45t ON6969;
1812: Sun F 47t ON1654;
1815: Thomas Sr 53t ON16211; Martha F 61t ON56579; Lynx F 54t ON29912; Victoria F 59t ON13115; Will F 57t ON6007;
1816: Alice F 59t ON7028;
1817: Speculation F 63t ON8692;
1820: John F 53t ON1498;
1821: Margaret Sr 53t ON21441;
1822: Alice Sl 51t ON1593; Hecla F 50t ON10667; Job F 48t ON14526;
1823: Amity Sr 54t ON10664;
1824: Gamon Sl 42t; Augusta Sl 45t; Bessie F 50t ON62040; Vine F 38 ON56592;
1825: Primrose F 51t;
1826: Betsey F 60t ON6003;
1827: Thorn F 50t; George F 54t; Superb F 47t; James F 43t ON62027;
1828: Hannah & Joseph Sr/F 60t; Forrest F 50t ON25685;
1829: Bonny F 62t ON7077;
1830: Chester Sl 46t; Caldwell F 60t; Mort F 54t; Doddington F 60t; Hope F 79t ON16894; Hope F 52t ON50490; Susannah & Elizabeth F 57t ON24024;
1831: Olivia F 60t ON1760; Wilbraham F 55t ON6035; Fanny F 61t ON10522; Grosvenor F 53t ON16490; Leigh F 52t ON58979;
1832: Christopher F 53t ON15359; George F 52t ON19982;
1833: Brien Boru Sr 75t ON8134; Caroline F 53t ON17260; Louisa F 61t ON6977; Sarah F 55t ON49991;
1834: Helen F 64t ON10547;
1835: James Jackson Sr ??t; North Star LV 93t (ex-James Jackson?); Annie F 60t; Beatrice F 56t ON26178; Surprise F 64t ON29156;
1836: Joah F 54t ON20539;
1837: Mary Helen F 53t ON62005; Ann F 55t ON6002; Antelope F 56t ON50487; Owl F 56t ON16908; Victoria Sr 56t ON10849;
1838: Henry F 63t ON24359; Terra F 56t ON28636;
1839: Queen F 48t; British Queen F 55t ON26171; Samuel F 49t ON5991;
1840: Richard Sr 63t; Mary Sr 63t; Fanny F 55t ON52921; Cayman F 62t ON6970; Sarah & Jane F 61t ON24613;
1841: Vesta F 60t; Princess Royal F 58t ON8460; Majestic Sr 58t ON22820; Reefer F 67t ON6008; Thomas & Ann F 65t ON5987;
1842: Frances Ann F 63t; George F 55t ON52911; Caroline K 58t ON10870; Charles F 56t ON44318; Thomas F 68t ON8166; Winifred F 41t ON63331; Wright F 58t ON58948;
1843: Majestic Sr 68t; George F 66t; Admiral F 57t ON26187;
1844: Major F 60t; Industry F 55t ON45424; Richard F 65t ON5996; William F 53t ON27662;
1845: Prestatyn Sl 63t; Admiral F 67t ON16462; Number One 49t ON17261;
1846: Croydon F 63t; Havelock F 58t; Caldwell F 57t ON44317;
1847: Clara F 56t; Sarah Sl 56t; Elizabeth & Ann F 65t; Lydia Ann F 57 ON52919; Bee F 44t ON6016; Maria F 40t ON6972; Tom F 65t ON10493;
1848: Intrepid Sr 51t; Caroline F 66t ON25772; Charles F 69t ON25851; Mary & Ann Sr 60t ON1509;
1849: Charles Whitley Sr 54t; Margaret & Ann Sr 63t; Wanderer Sr 73t; Lapwing F 31t; Clara F 56t ON65879 Mystery F 58t ON20756; Providence F 57t ON21056;
1850: Isabel Sr 51t; Express F ?t ON87943; Christopher & Elizabeth F 59t ON24398; Joseph F 60t ON28196; Mark F 60t ON21948;
1851: Rattler F 58t ON25740; Bessie Sr 53t ON29487;
1852: Ellen Bradshaw F 66t; Margaret F 53t; Blake F 62t ON54997; Ann F 59t ON97789; Mary F 65t ON1552;
1853: Thomas F 68t; Mosquito F 78t ON20760; Ann F 52t;
1854: Chance F 60t; Oulton F 67t ON16484; Ark Sl 54t ON10811;
1855: Maria Sr 90t; Elizabeth F 56t ON62004; Sarah F 64t ON28188; Seraph F 64t ON26185;
1856: Mayflower Sr 69t; Isabella Fisher Sr 89t; Selina F 43t; Welcome F 48t; Jane F 32t ON56578; Gnat F 70t ON19978; Maria F 33t ON16863; Odessa F 66t ON51047; Sarah F 40t ON22048; Three Brothers F 35t ON16862; Zouave Sr 28t ON16864;
1857: Energy F 59t ON56594; Zoar F 65t ON52916; George & Ann F 70t ON26177; Liver F 41t ON20276; M E Newall F 68t ON27444; Progress F 44t ON20540; Victory F 68t ON25071; Welcome F 48t ON65898; William F 42t ON20543; Zoar F 65t ON52916;
1858: Charles F 57t; Annie F 55t ON49992; Bud F 59t ON44352; Raven F 56t ON62012; Asia F 68t ON25075; Charity F 60t ON49889; Racoon F 59t ON26174; Selina F 45t O28198; Thomas F 40t ON27937; Unity F 69t ON44676; Weaver 45t ON7454;
1859: Thomas Pearson Sr 103t; Cedron F 72t; Thomas F 56t; May F 48t; St Helens F 50t ON115250; Ada Sr 75t ON27455; Countess F 59t ON27456; Hannah F 59t ON28616; Kate F 65t ON28177; Sarah Ann F 61t ON27948;
1860: John William Sr 61t; Clara Brown Sr 70t; Mary Elizabeth F 61t ON56584; Rob Roy F 63t ON115211; Alma F 46t ON29145; Governor F 53t ON63320; Lily F 57t ON28197; Liver F 62t ON63274; Thomas Wilkinson F 58t ON44762; Toiler F 53t ON28627;

and shipyards further up the River Weaver at Winsford, also including Over, [More detail]:
1756: James & Maria F 39t ON10619;
1806: Harriet F 49t ON44189;
1807: George F 46t ON16278; Trafalgar F 56t ON25611;
1811; Mary 49t ON44643; Stamford Sr 53t ON10872;
1823: Jane F 44t;
1824: Leader F 53t ON28613;
1825: Ann F 52t ON42614; Samuel F 64t ON25610;
1826: Mary Jane F 78t ON16861;
1827: Industry F 48t; Sarah Sl 54t ON26059;
1828: Julia F 62t ON25606;
1829: Commerce F 60t ON11748; Elizabeth F 62t ON25609:
1831: Mariner Sr 87t; Sarah F 53t ON15358;
1833: Martha F 52t ON47047; Philip F 55t ON42601;
1834: Amelia F 63t ON25601; Queen F 52t ON21059;
1836: Ann & Elizabeth Sr 52t; John F 54t ON28193;
1837: Ant F 23t ON25704; Commodore Sr 56t ON22706;
1838: Neptune F 55t;
1839: Bayswater F 56t; Frederic F 55t; Freddy F 55t; Washington F 64t ON1211;
1840: Albert F 63t; Caliban F 54t; Tallyho F 57t; Geneva F 52t ON18935;
1841: St George F 56t ON28187;
1842: Eliza Sr 64t;
1843: Dido F 57t; Ellen F 55t; Hope F 44t ON16190; Bromilow F 65t ON10524;
1844: Freddy F 38t; Frederick F 54t ON52925;
1845: William F 49t; Helen F 48t ON8793; Jane Sr 59t ON1688; Royal Oak F 56t ON20274;
1846: Ida F 51t ON10665; Joseph F 65t ON6986;
1847: Jenny F 57t; Martha F 66t; Ann F 47t ON6971; Harriet F 66t ON25607; Sarah F 52t ON63228;
1848: Mary Jane F 50t; Frances F 52t ON56595;
1849: Red Jacket F 61t; John F 65t ON25608; Red Jacket F 61t ON1676;
1850: Jane Sr 75t; Rebecca F 32t ON44370;
1851: Richard Lr 67t ON44372;
1853: Lilly 36t ON56588; Mary F 36t ON62023;
1854: Eleanor Sr 71t; Percy F 56t ON6023;
1856: Beaufort F 56t ON58914;
1857: Jessie F 72t; Harvest Home F 68t ON2861; Joseph F 56t ON16280; Kate F 58t ON20545; Richard F 70t ON58982;
1858: Obadiah F 59t; Progress F 68t ON52922; Gladstone F 79t ON8968; Grace F 58r ON60037; Mary Jane F 70t ON63328; Ransom F 69t ON63179;
1859: Onward F 37t; Jane Sadler F 57t ON52924; Arthur Sr 59t ON42640; Jane F 60t ON48792; Little John F 61t ON60002;
1860: Mary Ellen F 43t; Sarah F 40t ON56586; Arthur F 60t ON29143; Garside F 46t ON29179;

Built Manchester, also Hulme: [Locks on the Mersey and Irwell Navigation were initially 13 ft wide].
1806: Hatfield F 45t ON28604;
1828: Aston F 37t ON5481;
1841: Eliza F 32t ON4957;
1853: Lizzie F 36t ON49996;
1859: Malta F 35t ON65873;

Warrington built vessels.

MDHB wreck records.

Back to Liverpool built Sailing Vessels.


Some history of ship-building at Runcorn.

[from Runcorn Weekly News - Friday 04 April 1924]:
... The proximity of the foreshore to a narrow tidal waterway offered an inducement to the ship builders whose yards must have been established at a very early date. Commencing from the Castle Rock, which at that time was covered with sycamore trees, was the Anderton Castle Rock ship building yard, and under the shadow of these trees. the oak, so wisely chosen, was put to its beneficent use in the service to mankind by the skilled labour of the ship wright. Next, Speakman's sail loft was found; then Richard Evans's coal yard, for which Mr. Pritchard was agent; next, Mr. Anderton's timber yard, and the Bridgewater Trustees booking office for passengers who travelled by the beautiful "Countess of Ellesmere." the steamer which made two trips to and from Liverpool in one spring tide, a record which has never been beaten. Passengers used to come out by the fly-boats from Manchester and land at Delph Bridge. If they missed the tide, there were plenty of hostelries on the way - Wilson's Hotel Royal Hotel, or Boathouse - where they could rest. If they caught the steamer, they completed their journey to Liverpool. Further, the little confectioner's shop occupied by Mrs. Wrenches; then the ferry booking office and the ferry slipways on the beach where the fishing boats used to tie up. The baths were adjacent. They were built by the Earl of Ellesmere. A Mr. and Mrs. Bate lived in the house and managed the baths. Next came Mason's ship building yard; then that of Messrs. John and Thomas Johnson; then Hardy and Wyles steam mill; then Headley's slate yard, where slates were prepared for the schools; then Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway's ship building yard, next to the Old Quay yard, and finally the Old Quay Docks. It is easy to see from this list that the scene must have been one of great business. The full rigged ships "Annie Cheshire" and the "Dennis Brundrit" were built at Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway's yard in the early fifties. Imagine how thrilling a scene it must have been, when on a high tide, these vessels which made a name for themselves, were launched on to the bosom of the stream which would carry them so far, and with them, the reputation of such a man as Jas Boote, who was reputed by those who knew him to be the best builder of wooden ships of his period. Brundrit and Whiteway's yard had a notable career, and many craft born there to battle in the trade wars of their time, gave satisfaction to those who launched them. Amongst them, we have some which are with us to-day. They were of all kinds, from the river flat or barge, which perhaps we think small now, but in the days of Columbus would have been considered of quite a respectable size. There was the "Eva" built in 1873; the "Martin", a coasting flat, built in 1878; and the "Fanny" similarly; "Harvest King", built in 1879, was a schooner; "Snowflake" built in 1880; the steamship "Reginald" which carried macadam for Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway's Penmaenmawr trade. The "Fox" was a three-masted schooner; the "Sunbeam" built for Newfoundland trade; the flat "Edward"; "Mars" a lightship built for the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board; "Despatch" built for Hamburg trade; "Percy" built for Penmaenmawr trade; "Edward Whitley", built at the time when that politician's name was much to the fore. The equally noted Mason yard turned out boats for the carrying of Spanish ore and coasters and traders of all classes contributed to their quota to the robust coasting trade with which Runcorn is so peculiarly identified. The names of Mr. Stubbs and Mr. J. S Davies (who have taxed their memories for much of the foregoning information) and others, will never be separated from the memory of the Belvedere ship yards. ...


Wooden schooner British Queen, built Runcorn 1810, registered Liverpool 1817, 72 tons, then registered Dumfres 1825, owned Irving of Annan. Foundered 5 October 1832, off Mull of Kintyre, crew lost.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 18 October 1832]:
The British Queen, of Annan, Week, for this port, with herrings, was seen to founder on the 5th inst. off the Mull of Cantire [sic], by the Favorite, of Dumfries; crew lost.


Wooden schooner James & Sarah, built Runcorn, 1837. Registered Liverpool 90/1837, 72 tons. ON 10806, registered Bridgewater 1847, 71 tons, later 62 tons, ketch. In MNL to 1881, owned at Taunton. Voyage Lydney to Taunton, foundered off Burnham, September 1880, 3 crew lost.

[from Gloucestershire Chronicle - Saturday 18 September 1880]:
The schooner James and Sarah, from Lydney, with coal for Taunton, foundered off Burnham, and the three men who formed her crew perished.


Wooden schooner? Susan, built Runcorn 1838. Listed in Schooner Port as a schooner, but MNL 1872 lists Susan of Liverpool, Flat, built Runcorn 1838, 47 tons, owned Johnson, St Helen's. Since no ON is given, most probably not used in open sea.


Wooden schooner Thomas, built Samuel Mason, Runcorn 1838. Registered Liverpool 35/1838, 69 tons. ON 3389, in MNL to 1897, latterly owned Williams, Holyhead, 64 tons. Advertised for sale at Runcorn, 1853, 69 tons register, built Runcorn 1838. More history.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Monday 16 November 1896]:
A heavy westerly gale blew off Holyhead on Saturday. A schooner was observed off the Stack in much distress, and a lifeboat went to her assistance, and found that the vessel was the Thomas, of Liverpool. She was brought into harbour dismantled [by tug Brilliant Star]

[from Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 12 December 1896]:
RNLI. ... The Holyhead No.1 lifeboat assisted to save the schooner Thomas of Liverpool, and her crew of 3 men.


Wooden schooner Thomas Mason, built Samuel Mason, Runcorn, 1838. Registered Liverpool 1838, 62 tons. ON7726, registered Beaumaris 1852, 62 tons, later 51 tons. in MNL to 1894, owned Bangor, then Moelfre. Aground on West Hoyle Bank, 14 October 1894, cargo coal, and abandoned, crew saved. See also here

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 10 January 1839]:
Southport. 8 June. The Thomas Mason, has been driven from Beaumaris, without any person on board, and is on shore here, apparently uninjured.

[from Chester Chronicle - Saturday 12 September 1857]:
TO WATER CARRIERS, OWNERS OF VESSELS, AND OTHERS. MR. DANIEL BRADSHAW has been instructed by the Executors of the late Mr. Samuel Mason, (deceased), to SELL BY AUCTION, on Monday, September 14 th, 1857, at Wilson's Hotel, Runcorn, the county of Chester, the following New and Second-hand VESSELS:
LOT 1. CANAL BOAT, "Ann," length 60 feet, breadth 14 feet, depth 4 feet, tonnage 60 tons.
LOT 2. CANAL BOAT, "Alice," nearly new, length 67 feet, breadth 14 feet, depth 5 feet, tonnage 80 tons.
LOT 3. FLAT, "Thomas," length 66 feet, breadth 14 feet, depth 6 feet, tonnage 80 tons.
LOT 4. New CANAL BOAT, with hatches and masts complete, length 67 feet, breadth 14 feet, depth 5.5 feet, tonnage 80 tons.
LOT 5. SMACK, "Friends Good-will," length 50 feet, breadth 15 feet, depth 7.5 feet, tonnage 60 tons. [ON 8798, built Liverpool 1818]
LOT 6. One QUARTER SHARE of SCHOONER, "Thomas Mason," length 62 feet, breadth 17.5 feet, depth 8 feet, tonnage 100 tons.
LOT 7. New Clencher-built BOAT, copper fastened, length 16 feet, breadth 5.5 feet.
Sale to commence at three o'clock in the afternoon. Further particulars may be had applying at the Yard of the late Mr. Mason, Runcorn, ....

[from Birkenhead News - Thursday 18 October 1894]:
WRECK AT HOYLAKE. BRAVE LIFEBOAT RESCUE. At a late hour on Sunday night, Hoylake was startled by the sound of the distress rocket from the coastguard station. The crew of the lifeboat turned out immediately, and in a very short time the beach was crowded with persons, all eager to know where the assistance was required. It seemed that the schooner Thomas Mason, of Beaumaris, had gone on to the West Hoyle bank, and for that place the lifeboat was steered. There was a moderate gale blowing at the time, and it was not at all easy pulling for the crew of the Hoylake boat, which reached the sinking vessel at about midnight. Those on board the Thomas Mason at first declined to abandon the schooner, and expressed their belief that she could be got off the bank; but the hopelessness of their situation soon became apparent to everybody, and the schooner's crew got into the lifeboat. Not long afterwards, the Thomas Mason, which is a very old vessel, of about one hundred tons burthen, owned by Mr. Roland Jones, of Moelfre, Anglesey, disappeared.


Wooden schooner Mary & Elizabeth (also Maria & Elizabeth), built Runcorn 1839. Registered Beaumaris 62/1839, 78 tons. ON 1121, registered Beaumaris to 1860, Liverpool 1861-1866, Runcorn 1867-1868. Registered Newry, 1869-1875, owned Kilkeel 1870, 65 tons. Voyage Kilkeel to Cardiff with potatoes, developed leak and abandoned off Arklow Banks, 17 April 1875.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 20 April 1875]:
Arklow Aril 17. The schooner Maria Elizabeth [sic] of Newry, is off Tara Hill, in a sinking state. Crew landed here.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Wednesday 28 April 1875]:
Maria Elizabeth [sic]. Report of John Hanratty, Master of the schooner Maria Elizabeth, of Newry, 65 tons from Kilkeel, on April 5 for Cardiff (100 tons potatoes) Proceeded, and had to put into Kingstown on the morning of the 6th inst. In consequence of the wind veering round to S.W. and blowing fresh, he remained at Kingstown until April 14. During the time in Kingstown tried the pumps regularly every morning and evening, and found all right. Left Kingstown at about 6 a.m., wind about S., but, the weather being fine and moderate, tried to beat down Channel. On Friday, the 16th, at 12 noon, tide nearly low water, weather foggy, wind S., a light breeze, the schooner then nearly abreast of the Arklow Bank South Lightship (which was not visible from the thickness of the fog), and distant about seven miles from the coast, struck twice on something not visible, but supposed to be floating wreck. Sounded instantly, but could not find bottom with 18 fathoms of line. Hove the vessel round, and then perceived ahead a piece of wreck rising up and down in the water. Tried the pumps. The vessel was not making water. Proceeded on the voyage, the weather being very thick, and the flood tide making. Let the anchor go in 14 fathoms water. At 1 30 p.m., while at anchor, got sight of land, which deponent believed to be Tara Hill. Pumped the vessel dry at 4 p.m.; no unusual quantity of water. At about 8 p.m. commenced to heave short for the purpose of proceeding on her voyage. After heaving short, and when about to set the mainsail, heard the water rushing in, and, going into the cabin, found the water up to the cabin floor. Commenced to pump at once, and after a quarter of an hour, finding that the vessel was evidently sinking fast, the deponent and crew hoisted the boat out, and all left for the coast. Lost sight of the vessel in about half an hour, but cannot say whether she then went down as the fog prevented her being seen any longer. Landed at about five miles south of Arklow at midnight, after being about 2.5 hours in the boat. Newry, April 24.


Wooden schooner Elfleda, built John Crippin, Runcorn 1839. Registered Liverpool 1839, 109 tons. ON 23341, registered Weymouth 1851, 107 tons, then registered Plymouth 1861 to 1867, 104 tons. Voyage London to Swansea with copper ore, leaky and abandoned west of Land's End, 18 March 1867.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Monday 12 October 1846]:
Limerick. Oct 7. The schooner Elfleda, Farrell, of Runcorn, for Glasgow, which sailed from Tarbert on same day, has also put back, having off Brandon Head experienced a heavy squall, which carried away her mainboom and rigging attached thereto.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Tuesday 21 May 1867]:
Report Captain Edward Wakeham, late Master or the Schooner Elfleda, of Plymouth, 104 tons, from London for Swansea (about 165 tons copper ore), abandoned (as before reported): - Left London Feb. 22, and proceeded until March 17, when, through stress of weather, was obliged to let go anchor in Whitesand Bay, near the Longships, but the anchor dragged and was slipped; and at 8 P.M., weather thick with rain, wind E.S.E. to S.E., a hurricane, was about 10 miles to the east [sic] of Ives (Cornwall), when the foremast, two topmasts with gear, and 20 feet bulwarks, were carried away, and the boat stove, leaving the vessel a wreck. Ran her before the wind all night, trying to make Scilly. At 6 a.m. next day found six feet water in the hold. The pumps were worked until 7 P.M., but the water gained, and we were taken off the wreck by the Gladiator, of Norway. It was dark when we left the vessel, but we remained in the neighbourhood for about an hour, when we lost sight of her, and I believe she must have gone down about midnight. We were six days on board the Gladiator, and when about 20 miles above the Start left her for the (name forgotten), of Cowes, and landed at that port on the 25th March.


Wooden schooner British Queen, built Anderton, Runcorn 1840. Registered Liverpool 1840, 87 tons, later registered Dublin 1850, 87 tons, ON 8875, registered Dublin, then Wexford 1875-82, as 78 tons. Voyage Wexford to Porthcawl, driven ashore off Port Isaac on 26 March 1882, crew saved.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Tuesday 06 October 1846]:
Canning Dock. Arrived. British Queen, 87 Hughes Runcorn.

[from Limerick Chronicle - Wednesday 04 November 1846]:
Wednesday night [21 October], about 11 o'clock, the schooner British Queen, of Runcorn, 140 tons, Mr. Robert Hughes; master, from Liverpool, to Westport, laden with salt, delph, paints, oils, tea, sugar, coffee. &c., came ashore in Sheephaven Bay, Dunfanaghy, it then blowing a hurricane from north by east. Crew saved by Coast Guard.

[from Lloyd's List - Saturday 14 November 1846]:
Dunfanaghy. 9 Nov. British Queen, Hughes, sailed for Liverpool, after repairing.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 28 March 1882]:
The Gale... From Port Isaac, Cornwall, there is a despatch stating that during the gale on Sunday the schooner British Queen, from Wexford, was observed to be in distress and drifting ashore. Despite the heavy sea, the Port Isaac lifeboat was launched and succeeded in rescuing the crew when they had drifted [in their boat] to within a hundred yards of the cliff.

[from Gorey Correspondent - Saturday 01 April 1882]:
TOTAL LOSS OF A WEXFORD VESSEL. On Sunday the schooner British Queen of this Port was driven ashore on the Cornwall coast near Port Isaac, where she has since become a total wreck. The captain and crew were fortunately rescued by the life-boat stationed at that place. The British Queen left Wexford on Saturday bound to Porthcawl and having been overtaken in the strong gale of Sunday, she was driven to seaward out of her course. She was the property of Captain Thomas Hutchinson, and was not insured.


Wooden schooner John & Henry, built Runcorn 1840. ON 1465, registered Liverpool, 72 tons, later registered Runcorn 60 tons, register closed 1917. For sale 1853 as 72 tons. By 1865 owned Abram, Runcorn.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Saturday 23 January 1841]:
Wicklow. Sailed. John & Henry, Morris, Liverpool.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 15 April 1853]:
Without reserve, at the BOAT-HOUSE INN, RUNCORN, MONDAY, MAY 2, 1853, at three o'clock in the Afternoon, by Messrs. TONGE, CURRY, and Co., FIVE COASTING VESSELS, viz.:
The Sloop ELIZABETH, built at Frodsham in 1836, 63 tons register, round sterned, and carvel built.
The schooner THOMAS, built at Runcorn in 1838, 69 tons register, round sterned, and carvel built.
The schooner JOHN AND HENRY, built at Runcorn 1840, 72 tons register, round sterned, and carvel built.
The schooner MARGARET, built at Runcorn 1841, 73 tons register, round sterned and carvel built.
The schooner MERSEY, built at Runcorn 1842, 70 tons register, round sterned and carvel built.
The above vessels are all built of the very best materials, well found in stores, and require no ballast, and are well worthy the attention of parties requiring good coasting vessels. The vessels will be on view three day prior to the sale, in the Old Quay Dock, Runcorn. Apply Thomas and William Rigby, ship brokers, Runcorn,....


Wooden schooner Three Sisters, built Mason, Runcorn, 1840. Not identified in register under that name - although several vessels were called "three sisters" or "3 sisters": ON 1383 built Aberystwyth 1826; ON 1326 built Canada 1848. So possibly renamed - as John & Henry.

[from Chester Chronicle - Friday 07 August 1840]:
Launch. A fine new schooner, of 130 tons burden, was launched on Saturday, from the building yard of Mr. Samuel Mason, at Runcorn; she glided gracefully down the slides into her destined element, amidst the huzzas of a large concourse of spectators, and was named Three Sisters. She belongs to Dalzell and others, Liverpool, and is intended for the Irish corn trade.


Wooden schooner John, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn 1840. Registered Liverpool 198/1840, 70 tons, then Runcorn 7/1847. ON 7090. By 1865, owned Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn 62 tons. From 1872 on, MNL confirms built Runcorn. In MNL to 1886, registered Runcorn, latterly owned Wigtown, 55 tons.
[A sloop John is advertised in 1854 by Hazlehurst, Frodsham Bridge shipyard, this appears to be too small to be this vessel, however, no other vessel, John, is listed as registered at Runcorn around 1850. That sloop could be the vessel registered Liverpool 128/1836, 318/1836, 42 tons, then 79/1852.
Another John is ON 22834, built Sankey Bridges 1812, sloop of 48 tons, when registered Liverpool 1852 on, later Beaumaris until 1874.]
Voyage Runcorn to Workington, driven ashore near St Bees, 7 January 1886, crew saved.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Thursday 09 December 1852]:
RUNCORN. Dec 4. Captain Samuel Owen, of the schooner John, of Runcorn, arrived here last evening's tide, reports having got foul of a sunken wreck, close to the N.W. light-ship, on Thursday morning last, at 10 o'clock. The anchor on the schooner's rail caught the royal rigging of the sunken vessel's foremast, and brought the royal rigging and cross trees out of her, which Captain Owen has on board his vessel. The wreck, he says, lies about 200 yards from the light-ship, on the south side, and right in the course of the channel.

[from Blackpool Gazette & Herald - Friday 09 January 1885]:
The gale, it appears, has been somewhat severe at the Isle of Man. At daybreak yesterday morning a schooner was observed ashore about two miles south of the Point of Ayr, and assistance was despatched. Information has been received that the vessel is the John, of Runcorn, Wilkinson, master, from Liverpool to Peel, coal laden. The master anchored during the gale, but the vessel dragged and went ashore. The crew were saved. The schooner is not much damaged and will float when lightened.

[from Manchester Evening News - Friday 08 January 1886]:
Last night the schooner John, of Runcorn, was driven ashore near St Bees. The crew were saved. [Voyage Runcorn to Workington, ashore between Selkar and St Bees]


Wooden schooner Princess Royal, built Anderton, Runcorn, 1841 [from Schooner Port]. Registered Liverpool 1841, 83 tons, then Fleetwood 1853, 82 tons. ON 13086, register closed 1888, when 76 tons, owned Mostyn. Voyage Liverpool to Douglas, with coal, 14 November 1888, went missing and presumed lost.

[from Chester Chronicle - Friday 22 January 1841]:
Ship Launch. On Saturday se'nnight a beautiful schooner built by Messrs. Anderton and Co. was launched on the bosom of the Mersey. The men employed in her construction were afterwards entertained at the Royal Hotel, and the evening was spent with true festive enjoyment.

[from Manchester Courier - Saturday 16 January 1841]:
Launch of a schooner. Runcorn has, of late years become famous for the building of sea-going vessels, and many large and finely-modelled vessels are now upon the sea to testify to the abilities of the Runcorn ship carpenters. On Saturday last, a beautiful new schooner, built under the superintendence of John Rawlinson, was launched from the yard of John Anderton & Co. There was a high spring tide at the time, and this interesting vessel dashed into the Mersey, amidst the shouts of the assembled crowd, and the floating of flags in the breeze, and the sound of the cannon's thunder. After she was safely in the water, the carpenters and others interested in the scene repaired to the Royal Hotel, and partook of a substantial repast provided by Messrs. Anderton & Co. ...

[from Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 03 December 1888]:
SUPPOSED LOSS OF A FLEETWOOD VESSEL AND ALL HANDS. The schooner Princess Royal, Fleetwood, left Liverpool laden with coals tor Douglas. Isle of Man, or about the 14th November. The harbour master of Ramsey reported that he had sighted the vessel, which had been driven out of the bay by the weather. Nothing more has been seen of her, but one of her boats has been washed ashore at Silloth, and it is feared that the vessel must have foundered on one of the numerous sandbanks in the Solway Firth. Captain Nelson, harbour master of Maryport, has received communication from a member of a shipping firm in Liverpool, giving a description of the vessel and her crew, and asking whether any of the wreckage which has been recently washed up along the coast can be identified as belonging to the Princess Royal, but, beyond the boat already mentioned, nothing more has been seen.


Wooden schooner Anne, built Runcorn 1841, registered Liverpool 1852, 64 tons. ON3004. Registered Stranraer 1855, latterly owned McNeil, Carnlough, 57 tons. Register reports: closed as vessel totally lost off Torr Head, 28 April 1869.

[from Belfast News-Letter - Wednesday 05 May 1869]:
On Wednesday morning last ... At the same hour the coastguard watch at Torr Station saw a schooner - name unknown - go down with all hands off Torr Head. The master of the smack above referred to had spoken the master of the schooner during the night and learned she was from Letterkenny to the Britol Channel with potatoes. The wind was blowing a gale from the East at the time, the tide running in the contrary direction.


Wooden schooner Margaret, built Runcorn, 1841. Probably vessel registered Liverpool 74/1841, 73 tons. ON 24212, rebuilt 1891, owned Abel, Runcorn, register closed 1895, from 1891 registered London, owned Leighton, Liverpool, 64 tons. Many vessels of this name so hard to locate. Advertised for sale at Runcorn, 1853, 73 tons register.


Wooden schooner Doris, built Sothern & Day, Runcorn, 1841 ON 1642, registered Liverpool, 124 tons, then Dartmouth 1860-1, then Falmouth 1862-5, then Drogheda 1864-74, then Liverpool 1874-1900, 97 tons, owned Killyleagh.

[from Liverpool Albion - Friday 02 July 1841]:
On Monday morning se'nnight was launched from the yard of Messrs. Sothern and Day, at Runcorn, a beautiful new schooner, named the Doris, intended for the trade between Liverpool and London. ... owned Liverpool and London Shipping Company ...

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Thursday 16 June 1859]:
SCHOONER FOR SALE. The Schooner DORIS, of Liverpool; 124 tons register; British built; copper-fastened. She was built in Runcorn in 1842, A 1 for 12 years and restored in 1854 for 8 years. Lying in Huskisson dock.


Wooden sloop Catharine (also Catherine), built Lathom, Runcorn, 1841.
Registered Liverpool as Catherine 1841, 59 tons, re-registered 1856. MNL from 1866 has spelling as Catharine. ON 25661, Catharine registered Liverpool 1841, 59 tons, by 1875 sloop, 50 tons. In MNL to 1885, when owned Bloor, Liverpool.

[from Manchester Courier - Saturday 13 March 1841]:
Two Vessels Launched. On Monday last, a fine sloop was launched from the building yard of Messrs. John Lathom and Co., Runcorn, and on the following day, a large fishing smack was launched from Mr. Mason's slip. The tides, on both days, were the highest of any that will occur this year, and the vessels moved gallantly off their stocks into the river, amidst the shouts of assembled crowds, the display of banners in the breeze, and the firing of cannon. The carpenters and others interested in the vessels were afterwards regaled by their employers. We congratulate the Runcorn ship-carpenters upon the specimens of their work which they have lately sent forth upon the sea. We hope the port of Manchester will, ere long, find employment for their skill in ship-building.


Wooden ketch Ann Widnall, built Mason, Runcorn 1841 [see above]. For fishing. Registered Liverpool 1841, 36 tons, re-registered Liverpool 1853. ON 1365, ketch, 35 tons, in MNL to 1891, 38 tons, owned Liverpool. For sale 1852, described as a fishing trawler. Change of ownership reported 20 May 1890.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 13 January 1852]:
BY ORDER OF THE EXECUTORS OF THE LATE BENJAMIN SUMMERFIELD, DECEASED. on Friday, the 23rd instant, at One, at the Brokers' Sale-room, Derby-buildings, Fenwick-street, The following well-known and substantial FISHING BOATS, viz.:
EARL OF LIVERPOOL; 36 70-100ths tons register, n.m.; built at Liverpool in 1798. Dimensions: - Length, 47 feet 3-10ths; beam, 13 feet 9-10ths; depth, 8 feet 2-10ths.
KITTY; 45 36-94ths tons register; built at Liverpool in 1787. Dimensions: - Length, 48 feet 2 inches, breadth 15 feet 5 inches; depth B feet I1 inches.
AURORA; 39 15-84ths tons register, built at Brixham in 1815. Dimensions: - Length 43 3 inches; beam, 15 feet; depth, 7 feet 5 inches.
ARROW; 25 32-100ths tons register; built at Ilfracombe in 1832. Dimensions: - Length, 42 feet 1-10th; beam, 13 feet 3-10ths; depth, 8 feet.
DOLPHIN; 30 35-100ths tons; built at Liverpool in 1837. Dimensions: Length, 41 feet 6-10ths; beam, 13 feet 3-10ths; depth, 7 feet 5-10ths.
ANN WIDNALL; About 50 tons register; built at Runcorn, by Mason, in 1841, and is a most serviceable vessel.
These vessels are all in the most excellent repair; copper fastened; fully equipped with fishing gear of the first quality. ...


Wooden schooner Ellen, built Runcorn 1842. ON 2380, registered Liverpool 1842, 69 tons, then Beaumaris 1863, 61 tons, in MNL to 1882.

[from Lloyd's List - Thursday 11 September 1879]:
LIFEBOAT SERVICE. Cardigan, Tuesday Afternoon. During the gale to-day the schooner Ellen, of Beaumaris, bound with cargo of slate to Bristol, was observed in distress in Cardigan Hay, having parted one cable. The lifeboat John Stuart, belonging to the National Lifeboat Institution, and stationed at St. Dogmaels, was promptly launched to her assistance, and the vessel's crew were brought safely ashore in the boat.


Wooden schooner Philip, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1842. Registered Cardigan 1842, 55 tons, ON 25707, in MNL to 1868, broken up 1868.

[from Manchester Courier - Saturday 30 April 1842]:
RUNCORN. Two Interesting Launches. On Monday last a very fine coasting vessel was launched from the building yard of Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway, of this port; and on the following day, crowds of spectators were attracted to the building slip of Messrs. John Anderton and Co, to witness the novel sight of beautiful schooner launched with her masts fixed, and in her full rigging, ready fitted out for sea. [probably Heir Apparent] She glided nobly from her building cradle, and dashed into the full tide of the Mersey gallantly, amidst the hearty cheers of large concourse of people. The carpenters were afterwards regaled, and a number of respectable persons interested in the newly-launched vessel sat down to a sumptuous dinner at Hill's Hotel. No doubt the event of the day imparted a pleasant zest to the good viands and wine of the worthy host.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Wednesday 09 June 1858]:
NEW QUAY, CARDIGANSHIRE - June 4. Put in. The schooner Philip, Evans, of Cardigan, from Liverpool for Swansea, with copper ore. When near Bardsey Island, in a squall carried away her mainrigging; then made an attempt to reach Cardigan, but failed, and was obliged to put in here as the nearest harbour. Came into safety, and men are at work at her, and she will be ready to sail in the course of next week.


Wooden schooner Mersey, built Runcorn 1842. ON 1866, registered Liverpool, 1842, 70 tons, registered Runcorn 1849, then Dublin 1853-1906, latterly 50 tons, owned Wicklow. Advertised for sale 1853.


Wooden schooner Heir Apparent, built Anderton, Runcorn, 1842. Registered Liverpool 1842, 100 tons, ON 4149, then registered Beaumaris 1853, 99 tons, in MNL to 1880, owned Port Dinorwic, 89 tons. Voyage Blyth to Brest, with coal, abandoned off Start Point, leaky, and sank, 9 August 1880.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 25 September 1851]:
For sale at Runcorn. The schooner Heir Apparent. 99 tons register, built at Runcorn in 1842, and classed 9 years A 1; is well found in sails, ropes &c. For further particulars, apply to John Anderton, Ship Builders, Runcorn.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Tuesday 10 August 1880]:
MARINE DISASTERS. Home. The schooner Heir Apparent, from Blyth to Brett [sic Brest?], with coals, abandoned 30 mies off Start Point last night, having sprung a leak.

[from Liverpool Echo - Thursday 12 August 1880]:
FOUNDERING OF A SCHOONER. The Concorde, of Jersey, which has just arrived at Plymouth, reports that at 4 a.m. on Monday, six miles S.W. of Start Point, they sighted a schooner under all plain sail, deep in the water, apparently rolling very much. Two hours after, when the Concorde was within a mile of the schooner, she suddenly foundered. The Concorde's crew got out their boat and pulled to the spot, but saw nothing of her crew. There was a quantity of wreckage floating about, and the smack's crew picked up a piece of bulwark with the name Heir Apparent painted thereon in yellow letters. She had apparently been abandoned. Perhaps as she was deep in the water she was leaking. The weather was fine and clear, with scarcely any wind. In the mercantile navy list there is a schooner of 89 tons, registered as Heir Apparent, Beaumaris, built Runcorn thirty-eight years since. Mr. Humphrey Evans, 10, Port-terrace. Portdinorwick, Carnarvonshire, was the registered owner last year. Robert Evans, field-street, Liverpool, was owner.


Wooden schooner Hugh Lupus, built Bridgewater Trust, Runcorn, 1842. Advertised as sailing to Oporto,.. ON 25730, registered Liverpool 1842, 65 tons, then 1852, 64 tons, in MNL to 1860. Voyage Whitehaven to Ellesmere Port, driven ashore off Walney Island, 6 October 1857.

[from Liverpool Mercantile Gazette and Myers's Weekly Advertiser - Monday 01 December 1851]:
For SALE, The British Schooner HUGH LUPUS; 64 tons per register, new measurement, built at Runcorn in 1842, is well found in stores, carries a large cargo, and is an excellent order; now stands AE 1 at Lloyd's, lying in George's Dock. ...

[from Morning Advertiser - 13 February 1857]:
Liverpool Feb 12. The Hugh Lupus hence, put into Rhyl, Feb 9, for repairs, with a rudder unshipped and leaky. Sustained damage during a gale at Llandulas. [loading stone, Captain Hughes]

[from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 10 October 1857]:
Whitehaven. Sailed Oct 3, Hugh Lupus, Jones, Ellesmere.

[from Liverpool Albion - Monday 12 October 1857]:
Barrow. Oct 6. The vessel reported as sunk off Helpsfoot [sic, Hilpsford, SE end of Walney Island] is the Hugh Lupus of Liverpool, bound for this port. ... Ashore, fills with the tide.


Wooden schooner Mary Jane, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1843. Many vessels with this name. [builder from Schooner Port list, newspaper report suggests Anderton] Registered Liverpool 1843, 111 tons. Not found in MNL.

Wooden schooner Sarah & Ann, built Mason, Runcorn, 1843. Many vessels called Sarah Ann as well as Sarah & Ann,.. so hard to track. Registered Liverpool 1843, 81 tons. Not found in MNL.

[from Manchester Courier - Saturday 18 March 1843]:
Launches of Two Vessels. On Friday, the 3rd instant, a fine sea-going vessel was launched from the building slip of Messrs. Anderton and Co., [sic] of this port, and on the Monday following another, we believe a schooner, was launched from the establishment of Messrs. Samuel Mason and Co. On both of these interesting occasions crowds of people flocked to witness scenes which were distinguished by banners floating in the breeze, and the regaling of the carpenters and their friends in a substantial good old English fashion. During the long depression of commerce, no interest has suffered more than the shipping, and many of our carpenters have been thrown out of work, but we hope that brighter and more prosperous days will shortly dawn upon us all.


Iron vessel Laffak, built J & T Johnson, Runcorn, 1843. Not found MNL. [a flat of this name was built at Runcorn in 1863, ON 56591]

[from Manchester Courier - Saturday 14 October 1843]:
Launch of an Iron Vessel. On Tuesday, a large iron vessel, called the Laffak, built for river navigation by Messrs. John and Thomas Johnson, the extensive soap manufacturers of this town, was launched from their foundry yard, situate on the banks of the Bridgewater Canal. She is capable of carrying from 80 to 100 tons, and is the first of the kind ever launched in this town.


Wooden schooner Harriet, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1843. A common name - so hard to be sure which vessel is which. Registered Liverpool 1843, 125 tons, in Liverpool register to 1856. Not allocated ON. Last recorded voyage found is Liverpool - Lisbon - Malaga - Leghorn - Elba - St John's Newfoundland, arriving 9 August 1856, master Jones.

[from Chester Courant - Tuesday 05 December 1843]:
Launch. A few days ago, a vessel of ninety tons burthen, called the Harriet, the property of Joseph Coyne Esq., of Higher Runcorn, was launched from the building yard of Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway. After the launch, the workmen were regaled with a splendid dinner of roast beef and plum pudding, at the house of Mrs. Davies, the Royal Hotel, Runcorn.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 23 May 1844]:
For Palermo and Messina. The fine schooner Harriet, Matthews, master, A 1 at Lloyd's, and coppered, 111 tons, loading in King's Dock.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Monday 03 September 1855]:
Wapping Dock. Harriet, 125, Jones, C T Bowring

[from Lloyd's List - Friday 05 September 1856]:
St John's Newfld [Aug 15] arrived from Elba, Aug 9, Harriet, Jones


Wooden schooner Sarah, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1846. Many vessels called Sarah. Registered Liverpool 1846, 63 tons, transferred to Runcorn 1850. ON 25003, registered Runcorn, owned Amlwch by 1865, confirmed in MNL as built Runcorn 1846. Crew lists to 1872, in MNL to 1873, 67 tons. Voyage to Bray, driven ashore in storm, just north of Balbriggan - 1 February 1873 - all 3 aboard lost, also 6 from Skerries lifeboat.

[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 03 January 1846]:
LAUNCH FROM MESSRS. BRUNDRIT AND WHITEWAY'S YARD. On Wednesday last, the Sarah, burden 137 tons, was launched from this yard. and under the efficient management of Mr. James Boote, the valued foreman of the establishment, who has officiated on similar occasions in upwards of twenty-four instances, this beautiful vessel glided from the stocks in most admirable style.

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 04 February 1873]:
THE LOSS OF THE SARAH OF RUNCORN. The correspondent of the Freeman Journal gives the following account of the wreck of this vessel: One of the saddest events that has occurred for many years on this coast took place last night, a few hundred yards from the coast-guard station of this town. In the fearful tempest which raged from sundown yesterday, up to now, the schooner Sarah of Runcorn became a total wreck, and all on board have perished. The sad disaster does not end there, as five of the crew of the life boats, who manfully went to the rescue of the desparing sailors, have met their death in their heroic efforts to save their fellow-creatures. About quarter to nine o'clock, the coastguards on duty observed a schooner about half mile off the land with topsail and mainsail set. She was rolling heavily and going dead before the wind and nearing the shore every minute. It was hoped that she was going to let go her anchors but did not and every moment brought her nearer and nearer to inevitable destruction. She had her red port light burning and it was evidently the intention of those on board to run the chance of beaching her. At about quarter to ten when it was pitchy dark, and when the storm was raging most violently, she struck "stem on" with a crash about two cables' length from the rocky promontory in front of the coast guard station on which the Martello Tower stands. The chief officer of the coast guard here sent off one of his men to Skerries for the lifeboat, and proceeded with the coast guard under his command to render all the assistance in his power to the crew of the schooner over which the seas were now breaking with terrific force, and breaking up the bottom of the ill-fated vessel. The lifeboat was manned by the coastguard men who were sent from here, four coastguard men from the Skerries station and five brave seamen of that town, who bravely volunteered to take part in the humane and perilous expedition. The lifeboat got down under sail until she came within a mile of where the wreck lay, when a heavy sea struck her and washed away her oars, and, those on board thus losing all power of controlling or guiding her, she upset soon after and the five volunteers were drowned as well as a coastguardman named Albert Anning. The survivors got into her after she righted when another sea struck her and she upset the second time. She righted again and again upset for the third time, and was carried by the fury of wind and waves to apparent destruction on the fearful coast. Providentially she was sent ashore under a place called King's Lune, a kind of bye-road leading from the beach to the town road. As soon as the tide ebbed sufficiently at daybreak on Sunday morning, Mr D'Alton and his men went on board the wreck, and found no one alive. On the deck, they discovered the body of the captain who, it is supposed, was killed by the falling of the mainmast. The other two men of the crew of the schooner were doubtless washed overboard and drowned. [schooner on the rocks near Balbriggan; Schooner taking coal to Bray; one of the first lifeboat fatalities of the National Institute - as it was then called]


Wooden schooner Julia, built Brundrit & Co., Runcorn, 1844. Registered Liverpool, 198/1844. ON 8159, owned Brundrit, Runcorn, registered Runcorn 1848, 73 tons, later 66 tons, owned Penmaenmawr Shipping Co to 1901. Register closed 1906.

[from Lancashire Evening Post - Thursday 09 December 1886]:
LIFEBOAT SERVICES. Telegrams from local agents of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution report that during yesterday's gale, the Castletown (Isle of Man) lifeboat saved the crews, eight men, of the trawler Swift, of Douglas, and the schooner Julia, Runcorn.

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 19 March 1902]:
Cardiff. March 17. The schooner Julia of Runcorn has been towed into Cardiff and reports having grounded on Breaksea.

[from Liverpool Weekly Courier - Saturday 21 February 1903]:
VESSELS LOST. At Penmaenmawr the vessel Julia (Runcorn) strained and sprung a leak, and heeled over to the starboard. She was fast settling down when the men took to the boat, abandoning the vessel. which soon sank. [probably the Flat Julia of Runcorn, built Runcorn 1863, ON 44363, 60 tons, in MNL to 1903]


Wooden schooner Alice & Ann, built Runcorn 1844 [from RCUS]. Registered Liverpool, 218/1844, 38 tons, ON 16410, registered Lancaster from 1858. Coastal service, owned John Thompson, sank off Point of Ayr, in deep water, 7 July 1860, crew of 3 saved.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Tuesday 10 July 1860]:
The schooner Alice & Ann of Lancaster has sunk in deep water near Air Point.


Wooden sloop Mountain Maid, built Runcorn 1844, ON 4245, registered Chester 7/1844, 72 tons, then Liverpool from 1861. In MNL to 1887, latterly owned Thomas, Amlwch, 53 tons. Described in newspapers as a schooner. Voyage Llanelly to Lough Foyle, with coal, ashore near Wexford and wrecked, crew of 3 saved, 3 May 1887.

[from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 21 February 1885]:
Glasson Dock. Sailed. 15th. Mountain Maid, Owens, Amlwch, light.

[from Wexford People - Wednesday 04 May 1887]:
WRECK OF A SCHOONER. Yesterday morning the schooner, "Mountain Maid," was wrecked off the point of Greenore. The "Mountain Maid," 95 tons, Jones, master, belongs to Liverpool, and was on a voyage from Llannelly[sic] to Loughfoyle with coals. As soon as the schooner struck, the crew, which composed only three hands, launched the small boat, when the mate was washed overboard, and was with difficulty rescued from the waves, as a strong wind was blowing at the time. They, however, landed safely at the point of the Raven, but have lost all their clothes. The "Mountain Maid" is likely to become a total wreck.

[from Wexford People - Saturday 07 May 1887]:
WRECK SALE. TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION, (For account of whom it may concern), On SATURDAY, 7th MAY, 1887, ON THE CRESCENT QUAY, THE SCHOONER "MOUNTAIN MAID," of Liverpool, 53 Tons Register, lately stranded on the Raven Strand, as she may then lie. ALSO, Her Outfit, in lots, consisting of 6 Sails, Chain Cables, Anchors, small Chains, Blocks, Ropes, Boat, Spars, &c. Terms - Cash. Sale at Two o'clock. WALSH & SON, Auctioneers, Wexford.


Wooden schooner Fanny, built Runcorn 1845. Registered Liverpool 191/1845, 72 tons. Many vessels of this name. ON 23970 registered Liverpool 1845, 71 tons. In MNL to 1885, latterly owned Kneeshaw, Liverpool, 64 tons. Then purchased by Stewart of Strangford. Voyage Liverpool to Strangford, foundered off Liverpool, 4 October 1885, crew saved.

[from Manchester Courier - Tuesday 06 October 1885]:
WRECK OFF LIVERPOOL. THE CREW ASHORE AT BLACKPOOL. In the early hours of yesterday morning a small boat drove ashore nearly opposite Uncle Tom's Cabin, Blackpool. It contained two men and boy, the crew of the schooner Fanny, which left Liverpool at about eight o'clock on Sunday morning for Strangford, in Ireland. On leaving the river the weather was found to be very bad, and as it did not improve during the course of the day, the captain decided to turn back for Liverpool. He, however, found it impossible to make headway against the terrific south-westerly gale which was blowing, and as the fore shrouds of his vessel had parted, and she was making water fast, the small boat was got out. The three men stood by her for some time, but they ultimately left her going down fast about 10 miles outside the Liverpool Banks. A most perilous voyage was now commenced, and the coxswain of the Blackpool lifeboat, who has taken the men in charge, believes it to be no less than a miracle that the boat has lived safely during the night. The men, however, kept the boat well before the wind, and although in going over the Shell Wharf they had many narrow escapes of being capsized, the sea running with terrific force over there, they managed the boat admirably, and came through all right. Of course, in the darkness of the night they had no idea where they were going, but, fancying they were nearing some coast, they prepared for the worst. Between one and two o'clock this morning, as they believed, their boat hit the ground opposite Uncle Tom's Cabin, and capsized. The captain (William Steward) and his brother scrambled out of the water, but the boy was washed into the sea by a returning wave and drowned. The men climbed up to the top of the cliffs, but were unable to obtain admittance into Uncle Tom's Cabin. They then proceeded into the town, and at about six o'clock were taken in charge and handsomely treated by Coxswain R. Bickerstaff. Later in the day they were sent to Liverpool by Mr. T. Blane, as local agent for the Shipwrecked Fishermen and Mariners' Society.

[from Blackpool Gazette & Herald - Friday 09 October 1885]:
A WRECK OFF LIVERPOOL. THE SURVIVORS ASHORE AT BLACKPOOL. In the early hours of Monday morning a small boat drove ashore nearly opposite Uncle Tom's Cabin, Blackpool. It contained two men and a boy, the crew of the schooner Fanny, which left Liverpool at about 8 a.m. on Sunday morning, for Strangford in Ireland. On leaving the river the weather was found to be very bad, and as it did not improve during the course of the day, the captain decided to turn back for Liverpool. He, however, found it impossible to make headway against the terrific, south-westerly gale which was blowing, and as the fore shrouds of his vessel had parted, and she was making water fast, the small boat was got out. The three men stood by her for some time, but they ultimately left her going down fast about ten miles outside the Liverpool banks. A most perilous voyage was now commenced, and the coxswain of the Blackpool lifeboat, Mr. Bickerstaffe, believes it to be no less than a miracle that the boat lived safely during the night. The men, however, kept the boat well before the wind, and although in going over the Shell Wharf they had many narrow escapes of being capsized - the sea running with terrific force over there - they managed the boat admirably, and came through all right. Of course in the darkness of the night they had no idea where they were going, but fancying they were nearing some coast they prepared for the worst. Between one and two on Monday morning as they believe, their boat hit the ground opposite Uncle Tom's Cabin, and capsized. The captain, William Steward, and his brother, scrambled out of the water, but the boy was washed into the sea by a returning wave and drowned. The men climbed up to the top of the cliffs, but were unable to obtain admittance into Uncle Tom's Cabin. They then proceeded into the town, and at about six o'clock they were met by Mr. Jas. Dewhurst, who took them to his own residence. Every attention was here accorded the distressed sailors. Mr. Coxswain Bickerstaffe, upon hearing of the sad occurrence, immediately visited the men, rendering them all the assistance that laid in his power. On the following day (Tuesday), the two survivors, at the instance of Mr. T. Blane, as local agent for the Shipwrecked Fishermen and Mariners' Society, were sent on to Liverpool. Mr. Hyde, of Imperial-terrace, who has interested himself warmly on the poor fellows' behalf, telegraphed to their friends at Strangford, in Ireland, yesterday, the intelligence of their safety. They have lost all they had, including their united venture in the ship which foundered, and a subscription having been started for their benefit, donations may be forwarded to Mr. Hyde, Imperial-terrace.
The following narrative is taken from the lips of the eldest of the two brothers. He says: The ship was the schooner Fanny, of Strangford, County Down. We took charge of her at Western Point, near Runcorn, about a fortnight ago, and came in her to New Brighton, laden with 104 tons of coal, her crew consisting of myself, William Stewart, as master, my brother, George Stewart, and a youth aged 19, named Samuel Montgomery [aged 18, cook]. We started for Strangford about 7-30 on Sunday morning, and all fared well down the river until about two in the afternoon, the wind freshened to about W.S.W., and we found the vessel was taking in water. We were then about 25 miles out of Liverpool, and steering N. W. The sea rising caused her to labour heavily, and carried away two shrouds of the port fore rigging. I found it requisite to bear back to Liverpool, and the water kept gaining on us although the pumps were kept going, and she got so low in the water that she made a lot of lee way, and I had to bear up again, and set her off to sea again. The water still gaining on her we decided to launch the boat, and we did so, but hung by the ship for some time until we saw she was gradually settling down, when we let go, and run the boat for the lights which we could see, and which must have been Blackpool lights about ten miles off. This was about nine at night, and our boat filled twice, but we bailed her clear and drove on before the wind and sea, having lost one oar, but using one of the seats for a sort of sail to guide us before the wind, until within about 400 yards from the shore, when she filled again, I was swept out of her, but Montgomery caught hold of me and pulled me in again, and we again bailed her clear, but another wave struck the boat and threw us all three out. I saw my brother George swimming for the shore but I climbed on the boat's keel, and Montgomery was doing the same about three yards from me. A sea struck us and washed us both off, and I managed to swim alongside of my brother to land; and managed to crawl out of the water numbed and exhausted. My brother was unable to walk for some time, but we at last got up to what we are told was "Uncle Tom's Cabin," between one and two in the morning. We knocked at all the doors but no notice was taken of us, until at the back we climbed a gate and saw a light which was put out. We knocked again, and some women's voices spoke and told us, after we had told them we were shipwrecked sailors, to go to some place about a quarter-of-a mile further. We told them one of our mates was down on the beach drowned, and asked them for God's sake to let us in out of the cold wind, or throw us something to cover us. They replied that they could not assist us as there were no men in the house. We lay down behind a wall to shelter us from the wind for two or three hours, and then made our way to a field, where we saw a light in a house, and saw Mr. Dewhurst, who immediately took us into his house and gave us some hot tea and brandy, and put us in a warm bed, both he and Mrs. Dewhurst showing us the greatest kindness. Mr. Dewhurst also sent for Dr. Kingsbury, and Dr. Miller visited us several times without any charge. Mr. Bickerstaffe also came and took the particulars of our ship. and has sent Mr Blane, the Secretary of the Shipwrecked Mariners' Society, who said that we were to have all that was necessary, and he would be answerable for it. ....


Wooden schooner Margaret & Martha, built Mason, Runcorn, 1847. ON 3221, registered Liverpool 1847, 66 tons, until 1891. Owned at Port Dinorwic, and then owned by Robert Griffith of Rhiw, Llŷn, from 1884 and by Mrs Griffiths after his death in 1889. After coming ashore at Barmouth, leaky, she was repaired and sailed for Llanelli with lead ore, departing 9 March 1891, and was posted missing>. More about Captain Griffiths, the late owner.

[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 23 January 1847]:
RUNCORN. Launch. On Tuesday last, the beautiful schooner Martha and Margaret [sic] was launched from the yard of Mr. Samuel Mason. In splendid style did the gallant vessel merge into her destined element, amidst the cheers and acclamations of numerous assembly. Her burthen is 81 tons, N.M. She is the property of Messrs. T. and T. Rigby and Co., and is, understand, intended to trade between Runcorn and Beaumaris.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 14 September 1889]:
THE MISSING SEA CAPTAIN. Yesterday an inquest was held at the Boat House Hotel, the Magazines, New Brighton, before Mr. Churton, coroner of West Cheshire, on the body of Robert Griffiths, captain of the schooner Margaret & Martha. The body was found floating in the river on Thursday afternoon by a man named Smith, and was in a very decomposed state. William Thomas, mate the Margaret & Martha, stated that on the 30th ultimo, when the vessel left Garston, the deceased, who was in charge, was apparently under the influence of drink, but the crew were all sober. Witness wanted to take the helm, but the captain would not permit him, and the consequence was that the schooner went aground on a bank in the river. She re-floated by the incoming tide, the voyage resumed; the captain again refusing to let witness mind the helm. When off the Herculaneum Dock, the captain's steering was so bad that the vessel collided with the dock wall, splitting her bowsprit and smashing a portion of her bulwarks. The deceased was in a violent temper, and struck a member of the crew named Griffith Jones in the face with his fist. Witness expostulated with him, and the captain then attacked him. They closed, and a struggle ensued. The other two members of the crew were frightened and took to the boat, being afterwards followed by witness, whom the captain had tried to hang with the painter. They rowed ashore and informed the police, who, upon returning to the schooner, found it in charge of three boatmen who had witnessed the occurrence, and saw the captain jump overboard and disappear. In reply to the coroner, witness could not say whether the captain was drunk or insane. The Coroner suggested to the jury that it would be best to find an open verdict, and they returned one of "found drowned".

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Friday 23 January 1891]:
Margaret & Martha (sch) is ashore near Barmouth leaky.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Monday 23 March 1891]:
MARGARET and MARTHA schooner, with lead ore, sailed for Llanelly on March 9 after repairing, but has not yet arrived at that place; fears are entertained for her safety. (Barmouth, March 20.)


Wooden brig Rosalie, built Anderton, Runcorn, 1847 ON 14546, registered Liverpool, 193 tons, later 176 tons. By 1865, owned Kirkcudbright. Traded to West Indies. By 1872 described as a snow. In MNL to 1881, owned S Stern, Liverpool, 177 tons. Described as leaky after storm damage and put into St Michael's (Azores) in 1881.

[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 20 March 1847]:
Launch at the Yard of Messrs. John Anderton, and Co. On Thursday, the beautiful brig, Rosalie, was launched at this yard. She is the property of M. S. Synnot, Esq., of Liverpool, and is intended, we believe, for the South American trade. Her burthen is 194 tons, n.m., and 215 tons, o.m., and is calculated to carry 320 tons. At all times, in this maritime country, a launch is a spectacle of great interest; but on this occasion the feeling was most intense. This is the largest vessel ever launched at Runcorn, and the first since it was formed into a free port; and it was looked upon as the harbinger of the ship-building trade of the town. The day was remarkably fine - indeed the first spring day of the season - and all appearances were propitious; the fervent sun glancing upon the waters; the river crowded with boats and steamers; and every rising ground, and all points from which a view could be obtained, literally crowded with living beings, presented a most animated appearance, and not the slightest accident occurred to mar the general festivity. Most superbly did the noble vessel glide unto that element, where, we trust, she is destined to pursue a career of uninterrupted prosperity. She walked the waters like a thing of life; and appeared proudly conscious that she carried with her an omen of Runcorn and its fortunes. May the omen be propitious! A substantial repast was provided, in the shed of Mr. Speakman for 120 of the workmen and friends of Messrs. John Anderton and Co.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Tuesday 09 June 1874]:
FOR SALE, The Brig ROSALIE, 176 tons register; classed A 1 at Lloyd's, and sheathed with yellow metal. Length, 90.4 feet; breadth, 20.3 feet; depth, 13.2 feet. Is in excellent order, well found. and ready for immediate employment; sails without ballast; has been chiefly employed in the Brazil and West India trades. Lying in King's Dock. For further particulars apply to MINERS & Co., 9. Chapel-walks, Liverpool.

[Edinburgh Evening News - Wednesday 16 April 1879]:
INSUBORDINATION OF SEAMEN. On Monday, four seamen belonging to the brig Rosalie, of Liverpool, were brought before the Falmouth magistrates, charged with refusal of duty. The Rosalie was on a voyage from London to East London, and when close to the French coast last Friday, the prisoners refused to proceed. In defence, they charged the captain with drunkenness, and said they refused because the vessel was improperly managed. They would go on the voyage with any other master. The bench sentenced two to eight weeks', the third seven weeks', and the fourth to six weeks' imprisonment, with hard labour.

[from Barbados Herald - Thursday 19 June 1879]:
Arrivals. 8 June. Brig Rosalie, Liverpool, 36 days, deal. [Oct 25 1879, arrived Liverpool from Antigua]

[from Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 05 November 1881]:
Madeira Nov 3. The Rosalie (brig) from Trinidad de Cuba for London, has put in to St Michael's with damage to bulwarks, loss of sails and leaky.


Wooden schooner The Port, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1847. The name of this vessel makes searching newspapers difficult. Vessel of this name, registered Runcorn 1847, transferred to Liverpool 1850 - probably the vessel sunk by collision 10 January 1850. There is also listed a vessel (ON 7084) of 65 tons, registered Runcorn 1850, then later registered Liverpool 1856 as 65 tons. In MNL until 1867, owned Green, Liverpool, 60 tons. Possibly the 1850 wreck was lifted and repaired. The appropriation list states that the Port was lost in June 1867 - details not found.

[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 22 May 1847]:
RUNCORN. LAUNCH. On Saturday, the fine schooner, "The Port" was launched at the yard of Messrs. Brundritt and Whiteway. Her burthen is 90 tons, o.m., and 65, n.m., and she is intended for the coasting trade. As the vessel descended into a narrow gullet, the appearance was not equal to a descent into the open river; but she made a splendid splash, drenching several of the bye-standers.

[from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Tuesday 15 January 1850]:
The steamer Sea Nymph, for Drogheda, was in contact, last night [sic], with the schooner Port of Runcorn, in the Victoria Channel, when the latter immediately sank. Master drowned; remainder of the crew got on board the steamer, which put back with bow damaged. [Inquest: master named John Edwards, drowned 10 January, no sufficient and proper light on the schooner]


Wooden schooner Laurel, probably built Runcorn 1847, registered Runcorn 16/1847, 110 tons. Runcorn became a register port in 1847. So possibly built elsewhere/earlier but owned Runcorn. Voyage Newcastle to Dubln, with coal, ashore at Holm, near Stornoway, 29 January 1849, and wrecked, crew saved.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Friday 10 September 1847]:
Entered for loading. Westport. Laurel, M'Queen, Strong & Reid.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Saturday 08 April 1848]:
HUNA-PENTLAND FIRTH, April 4: Wind W.S.W. Passed through, ... Schooner Larul [or Laurel], of Runcorn, from Newcastle for Dublin. [Huna is a headland west of Duncansby Head]

[from Elgin Courier - Friday 16 February 1849]:
Stornoway, Jan. 30. On Monday night, 29th ult., the schooner Laurel of Runcorn, M'Queen, master, from Newcastle, and bound for Dublin with a cargo of coals, when running for Loch Stornoway, during a terrible gale from S. W., was cast ashore at Holme [sic, now Holm], about one mile and a half from Stornoway, and has become a total wreck, crew saved.


Largest vessel to dock at Runcorn - and to be registered there. Though not built there.
Wooden barque Hebe, built New Brunswick, 1837, 450 tons. Registered Liverpool 14/1843 and 80/1848, 450 tons; For sale at Runcorn 1848, registered Runcorn 3/1848. By 1849 owned G Wood and registered Liverpool. Later registered London 74/1851, 450 tons. Voyage Shields to Lisbon, aground on Newcome Sand, 24 January 1854, and wrecked, crew of 15 saved. More detail.

[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 19 February 1848]:
Runcorn. The Docks. Two large vessels have lately arrived at this port, the Hebe, of South Shields, and the Hope, of Arbroath, Scotland. Both vessels were laden with railway sleepers from Russia. The Hebe draws seventeen feet of water; there was nineteen feet six inches of water in the Old Quay Dock, where they were harboured. Sailing from Narva Bay, Captain Charles Mackenrot, of the Hebe, picked up the captain and mate of the brig Mariana, of Glasgow, and the captain, mate, and two apprentices the brig Mary Bull; ...
These vessels are barques and American built. ... The Hebe brought about 4,000 sleepers, and is capable of bearing a freight of 700 tons burden. The Hope brought 2700 sleepers, and draws fourteen feet of water. Through stress of weather, the vessels lay over at Birkenhead before arrival at this port. The Hebe lightened her cargo below Garston before she came up the river, this is the largest vessel that has ever arrived at the port of Runcorn.

[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 12 February 1848]:
ON SALE, The well-known fast-sailing Barque HEBE, Charles A. Mackenrot, Master; 450 tons nm, now discharging at Runcorn; abundantly found in stores, had extensive repairs in 1846, and re-classed in 1847 for 4 years AE 1, For inventory and further particulars, apply to JOHN JARDINE, 5, Trafford-chambers, South John-street.

[from Lloyd's List - Wednesday 30 March 1853]:
Cleared outwards: In Ballast. March 29. Quebec, Hebe, Hudson, 453. [return journey had master Robinson]

[from Lloyd's List - Tuesday 24 January 1854]:
Lowesfoft, 24 January. The Hebe (barque) of London, Robinson, from Shields to Lisbon, is on Newcombe sand, a total wreck, crew saved.


Wooden schooner Empress, built Anderton, Runcorn, 1848. ON 13137, registered Runcorn 1848, 77 tons, later 68 tons, in MNL to 1870, owned St Helen's. Voyage Dun Laoghaire to Runcorn with sulphur ore, aground between Formby and Southport, 26 December 1869, crew of 3 got safely ashore.

[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 29 January 1848]:
Launch of a Schooner, On Friday last, the Empress, a newly-built schooner, of 110 tons burthen, and Mary, a small decked boat of 20 tons burthen, were launched from Mr. Anderton's ship building yard. A large party of gentlemen were invited to dinner, amongst whom were Mr. Pope, Lloyd's agent for Liverpool, Mr. Pye, surgeon. - Threlfall Rigby, Esq. of Runcorn, merchant, with several respectable gentlemen from Liverpool. The launch place about twenty minutes past twelve o'clock, when she went off in capital style, full-rigged, and with her sails bent ready for sea. Her attendant (as the men would have it) followed her with a pretty dip. She is built expressly for Messrs. Glaive and partners, price £1200, and intended for the coasting trade. Her first cargo will be salt, to Bristol, and she will be loaded in the Duke's Dock. After the launch 140 gentlemen sat down to dinner in the side shed, which was prepared and decorated, and the evening was spent with cheerfulness and hilarity.

[from Barrow Herald and Furness Advertiser - Saturday 02 January 1869]:
WRECK. We regret to announce that during the gale at the beginning of this week the schooner "Empress", of Runcorn, went ashore between Southport and Liverpool. She was under the charge of Captain Poole, of Paxton-terrace, in this town, and was partly owned by Captain Porter, Newbarns, and Mrs. Anyon, Ramsden-street. Captain and crew got ashore all safe, but the vessel has broken up.

[from Wigan Observer and District Advertiser - Friday 01 January 1869]:
On the morning of Christmas-day, intelligence was received that a vessel was ashore half way between Southport and Formby. No time was lost in manning the lifeboat, and the horses having been yoked to the carriage, the crew were speedily on their way to the scene of the reported disaster. The information as to the wreck proved but to true, though, fortunately, the services of the lifeboat were not required. It was found that a small schooner had run ashore on the previous night, and her position was such to render her ultimate destruction inevitable. She was the Empress, laden with sulphur ore, and bound from Kingstown to Runcorn. The master, John Poole, with his crew of two men, escaped from the vessel soon after she struck, and took refuge in the sandhills.


Wooden schooner Duke, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1848. ON 24117, registered Runcorn 1848, 80 tons, later 74 tons, owned Wicklow, later 55 tons. Voyage Point of Ayr to Cardigan, ashore off Cardigan, 9 December 1892, crew of 3 rescued by lifeboat.

[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 06 May 1848]:
Launch from Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway's Yard. On Wednesday, the fine schooner the Duke, was launched from this yard in beautiful style. The vessel is calculated to carry 150 tons. In the afternoon, the workmen employed the establishment, about forty in number, sat down to an excellent and substantial dinner at the house of Mr. John Rigby, the Boathouse Inn. The chair was taken and most ably filled by Robert Whiteway, Esq. Launch from the Yard of Mr. Samuel Mason. On Wednesday a small but beautiful schooner, calculated to carry about 60 tons at a draught of 6.5 feet, was launched from this yard. After a slight delay, the vessel glided into the river in a splendid manner; she was built originally for the Ulverston trade, for which, from her slight draught of water, she is admirably calculated.

[from South Wales Daily News - Saturday 10 December 1892]:
A SCHOONER ASHORE IN CARDIGAN BAY. CREW RESCUED BY THE LIFEBOAT. A terrific storm was experienced in Cardigan Bay on Thursday night, accompanied by heavy rain. On the previous evening the schooner Duke, of Runcorn, laden with coal, from Point of Ayr, Flintshire, bound for Cardigan, anchored in the bay. The wind was blowing from N.N.W. during the night, and between three and four o'clock on Friday morning the vessel began to drag her anchors, and soon was ashore on the Pembrokeshire coast, under what are known as the Black Rocks. This is a very dangerous spot. The sea was washing over the schooner, and rapidly filled her. The attention of the coastguard on duty having been called to the position of the vessel, the lifeboat crew were summoned by rocket, and every effort was made to bring the life-saving apparatus to bear on the unfortunate vessel, which had a crew of three on board. The coastguards succeeded in throwing a life-saving line by means of a rocket over the vessel, but before the necessary arrangements for landing were completed the lifeboat pulled up alongside, and the crew preferred landing in the boat to using the apparatus. About 7 a.m. on Friday, the crew, consisting of Captain Morgan and two men, were landed safely. The vessel carries about 120 tons, and is lying in a precarious position, doubts being entertained as to the possibility of saving her from becoming a total wreck. The wind abated a little in the morning, and subsequently changed its quarter, which made things more favourable, but the sea was running high during the day. Efforts will be made to save the vessel and her cargo.


Wooden sloop Joss, probably built Runcorn by 1848, registered Runcorn 14/1848, 52 tons. Voyage with limestone to Runcorn, 27 August 1851, foundered near Taylor's Bank, all 6 aboard lost.

[from Chester Chronicle - Saturday 30 August 1851]:
Gale: About three in the afternoon, a sloop was seen by pilot boat No. 2 off the North West Lightship, with a signal of distress flying. The pilot-boat immediately went to her assistance, and remained with her until the steam-tug Dreadnought, belonging to the Old Steam-tug Company, succeeded in getting a rope from her and taking her in tow. On passing Taylor's bank, owing to the heavy sea, the sloop suddenly went down with all on board. It is said there were six persons on board, the captain, his wife, two men, and two boys. The Dreadnought could not render assistance. The lost sloop is the Joss, belonging to Mr. Blundell, of Runcorn, and the captain's name, we are informed, is Janion. The Joss was heavily laden with limestone.


Wooden schooner William Court, built Runcorn 1849. Registered Runcorn 1849, 56 tons, owned William Clarke, rope-maker, Runcorn. Not in MNL. Last recorded voyage found in newspapers was arriving Dublin with salt on 15 December 1852. Reported in register [from Schooner Port] as lost 1853 in Irish Sea.

[from Freeman's Journal - Thursday 24 June 1852]:
The smack Commerce, of Cardigan, was lying at Anchor in the river on Tuesday, opposite the revenue station. and was run into by the schooner, William Court, of Runcorn, bound for Arklow; the former had her bowsprit carried away, the latter her bulwarks much shattered.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Saturday 27 November 1852]:
Holyhead. Nov 26. Put in. William Court, Dapper [sic, Capper?], from Arklow, for Liverpool.
Dec 15. [1852] Dublin. Arrived William Court, Liverpool, salt


Wooden schooner Shamrock, built Runcorn 1850. ON 25008, registered Runcorn 1850, 75tons, later 65 tons, Voyage Bangor to Liverpool, with slates, ashore East Hoyle Bank, crew saved in own boat, 18 October 1887.

[from Wigan Observer and District Advertiser - Friday 27 May 1870]:
LIQUIDATION SALE, LAFFAK AND GARSWOOD COLLIERIES, NEAR ST. HELBNS, ...
RUNCORN. The schooner SHAMROCK, of Runcorn, registered 65 tons. Dimensions: length 63.4 feet, breadth 16.6 feet, depth 8.1 feet: carries 110 tons dead weight. A well-finished vessel, and in good condition.
The schooner HANNAH and JOSEPH, of Runcorn, registered 51 tons, Dimensions: length 62.3 feet, breadth 15 feet, depth hold 6.8 feet; carries 95 tons dead weight, in capital condition. [ON 8848 b Northwich 1828]
[also 10 Flats: Supply, Weston, Weaver, Mersey, Lancaster, Robert, Miner, Busy, Speculation, Clara].

[from Flintshire Observer - Thursday 20 October 1887]:
POINT OF AYR. - A Vessel Sunk. - The schooner Shamrock laden with slates from Bangor to Liverpool, sank near the entrance to the river Dee on Tuesday morning [18 October]. The crew escaped in their own boat.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 22 October 1887]:
The schooner Shamrock. which sank on the East Hoyle Bank about three days ago, while going from Bangor to Liverpool with a cargo of slates, was floated yesterday about noon as the tide rose. She was then taken into the Dee, off which river the East Hoyle Bank is situated, but when she got near the Black buoy marked H.E. 5, she again sank.


Wooden schooner Ellesmere, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1850. ON 22881, registered Runcorn 1850, 75 tons, and remains registered at Runcorn, latterly 72 tons, until 1915 when rebuilt as 78 tons, and registered Liverpool, until 1935.

[from Liverpool Albion - Monday 21 January 1850]:
A remarkably fine schooner, the Ellesmere, eighty tons register, has been launched from yard of Messrs Brundrit and Whiteway, of Runcorn.


Wooden schooner Emperor built Anderton, Runcorn 1851. Sr 70t; ON 18402, registered Liverpool, 1851, 70 tons, registered Beaumaris 1863-89, 65 tons. Destroyed in a storm at Amlwch harbour, March 1889.

[from Liverpool Albion - Monday 09 July 1855]:
Fleetwood. July 2. The schooner Emperor, Sinnott, of Liverpool, from Ardrossan, which arrived here yesterday, struck on the Banks of Help's Ford, off Walney Island, yesterday morning, but came off on the flood, apparently strained, and making a little water.

[from Liverpool Weekly Courier - Saturday 23 March 1889]:
The massive timbers which are placed for protection at the entrance of the harbour at Amlwch were smashed to pieces and the vessels banged together like toys. The appearance is one of utter havoc, the quay and surroundings being strewn with all kinds of wreckage. The schooner Emperor, of Beaumaris, which was in the graving dock outside the harbour, was literally washed out through the large protecting gates and driven with terrific force against the quay lighthouse, the bowsprit completely battering down a portion of the building and the vessel being smashed to atoms.


Wooden schooner Emmeline, built Runcorn 1851, 70 tons [listed Schooner Port]. Not found MNL or BNA. (possiby Emperor was launched with this name)


Wooden schooner Sir Robert, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1851. ON 22773, registered Liverpool 1851, 68 tons, rebuilt 1881, registered Dublin 1882-96. register closed 1897. Voyage Runcorn to Wicklow with coal, driven ashore on beach at Murrough and wrecked, 6 January 1897.

[from Liverpool Albion - Monday 14 July 1851]:
On the 1st instant a fine schooner, of 120 tons burthen, 125 feet long, was launched at Runcorn by Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway.

[from Manchester Courier - Saturday 12 July 1851]:
Launch. On Tuesday, the 1st inst., a fine schooner, 120 tons burthen, named the Sir Robert, was launched from the yard of Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway. In the evening the workmen of the establishment, seventy-two in number, sat down to supper at the Royal Hotel. At the same yard there is now being built a ship calculated to carry from 700 to 800 tons. It is 125 ft. keel, 26ft. 6in. beam, and 18ft. 6in. in depth of hold. This is an immense step in advance in shipbuilding this port, the vessels heretofore built being of small burthen varying from 86 to 150 tons.

[from Morning Post - Friday 08 January 1897]:
The schooner Sir Robert, of Dublin, from Runcorn to Wicklow, coal laden, missed stays off Wicklow, and went ashore on The Murrough. The crew were saved. [there was much later discussion about the reason - several pilots were aboard]

[from Bray and South Dublin Herald - Saturday 06 February 1897]:
WRECK SALE - SCHOONER "SIR ROBERT". Subscriber has been favoured with instructions from Mr Thomas D'Arcy, to SELL BY PUBLIC AUCTION, on Wednesday, 17th February, 1897. ON THE BEACH, MURROUGH, WICKLOW, Hull of the schooner, "Sir Robert," as she now lies, on the above Beach; also her chain cables, anchors, hawsers, ropes, sails, patent blocks, running gear, masts, spars, compass, life-buoys and belts, gin, small chains, and miscellaneous other lots to suit purchasers. Sale at 12 o'clock. Purchasers to pay Auctioneer's Commission. FRANCIS W. MAcPHAIL, Auctioneer and Valuer, Wicklow.


Wooden ship Ann Cheshyre (also Anne Ceshyre), built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1853. Owned Whiteway, Runcorn. ON 23943 registered Liverpool 1853, 412 tons, later 389 tons, and then as a barque. In MNL to 1887, owned Lune Shipping Co., Liverpool. For sale 1887 and voyaged to Buenos Ayres, arriving August 1887, via Swansea. Probably used as a coal hulk there.

[from Chester Courant - Wednesday 16 February 1853]:
PROGRESS OF SHIPBUILDING AT RUNCORN. A fine vessel, calculated to carry 700 tons, which is being built at the yard of Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway, is so far approaching completion that it is expected to be launched at the next spring tides. This is the first ship that has been built at Runcorn, and is a great advance upon the smaller class of vessels, not in any case exceeding 250 tons, to which the trade of the port has hitherto been confined.

[from North Wales Chronicle - Friday 11 March 1853]:
LAUNCH AT RUNCORN. - On Monday, Feb. 26th, Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway launched from their building-yard a fine ship. The weather was propitious, which added to the interest excited by the circumstance of this being the first vessel of her class built here, and induced an unusual number of people to assemble as spectators. ... The ceremony of christening was performed by Miss Brundrit, sister to one of the proprietors. This lady comported herself admirably. with a courage somewhat uncommon at such scenes, as she seized the critical moment, and dashed the bottle with correct aim, whilst she cried out "Ann Cheshyre." As the launch was to have taken place on the previous Saturday, but was prevented by the boisterous state of the weather, ...
The Anne Cheshyre is intended to sail on her first voyage to San Francisco with a general cargo, and is to be commanded by Captain William Whiteway, late of the ship Undaunted. She will carry about 750 tons, and is registered at Lloyd's A 1 for 13 years. Her dimensions are as follows -- Length of keel 126 1-10 feet, over all 150 feet, beam 27 feet, depth of hold 18 feet 4 inches.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Tuesday 16 May 1882]:
FOR SALE. The Barque ANNE CHESHYRE, 389 tons register. Built under special survey at Runcorn in 1853, and then classed 13 years A 1 at Lloyd's. afterwards continued 9 years A 1, and in 1876 was classed 9 years A 1 in red; is copper fastened and sheathed with yellow metal. She discharged last year 656 tons guano at Mauritius from Peru. Is well found in stores and ready for sea. Dimensions Length, 129.7 feet, breadth, 24 feet, depth, 18 feet. Lying in the George's Dock, Liverpool. [also for sale February-March 1889 at Liverpool; 23 May 1887 cleared for Buenos Ayres, via Swansea, arriving Buenos Ayres 30 August.]


Wooden schooner Anne Walker, built Mason, Runcorn, 1853 ON 982, registered Liverpool 1853, 111 tons, registered Kirkcaldy 1863-4, Inverness 1865-7, Dumfries 1868-75, Beaumarais 1876-90, latterly 90 tons. Advertised for sale at Liverpool August 1889. Possibly then broken up.

[from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Tuesday 09 August 1853]:
LAUNCH. Saturday week, the fine schooner Anne Walker was launched from the yard of Mr. Samuel Mason, at Runcorn. The following are her dimensions: - Length over all, 85 feet, breadth of beam 20 feet, depth of hold 11.5 feet, old measurement 128 tons, 112 tons, The vessel is an extremely handsome model, and is expected will prove a fast sailer. She is the property of Mr John Davies, and is intended for the South American trade. Mr. James Amos, of Yarmouth, under whose superintendence the schooner has been built, is appointed master and Mr. James Dennis, of the same port, mate. She will proceed to Liverpool forthwith to take in cargo which is awaiting her for Rio Grande.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Monday 25 November 1861]:
FOR SALE. The fine Schooner ANNE WALKER; 111 tons om., 90 tons present act; length, 71 ft 6-10; breadth. 18 ft 4-10: depth, 11 ff 3-10; built at Runcorn by present owner, of the best materials, for own private use, in 1853, and classed Al seven years: is well found, sails fast. and carries about 170 tons dead weight on a moderate draught of water. Lying in Wellington Dock. ... [also for sale at Liverpool August 1889]


Wooden brigantine Eva, built Runcorn 1853, 134 tons, in LR 1855, owned Wylde, Liverpool. ON 1411, from 1854, registered Liverpool, 97 tons, registered Dumfries 1869-1907, brigantine, 79 tons, owned Prince, Buckley, Fflint, then Darcy, Wicklow, schooner, 69 tons; then registered Dublin from 1908- 1915; register closed 1915.

[from Sun (London) - Monday 12 September 1853]:
Gibraltar. Cleared. ..., brigantine Eva, M'Credie, for Oran.


Wooden schooner Brackley, built Runcorn 1854, [Schooner port lists builder Brundrit & Whiteway]. ON 16403, registered Liverpool 1854, 88 tons, in MNL to 1928, later 79 tons then 64 tons. Last owner at Wicklow.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 27 December 1859]:
COLLISION OFF CUMBRAE. About four o'clock on Sunday morning, the screw steamer Thetis, plying between Liverpool and Glasgow, came into collision, off Cumbrae, with the schooner Brackley, of Runcorn, from Glasgow to Preston, with a cargo of pig iron. The bowsprit of the schooner was carried away and her stem stove in. The Thetis sustained some little injury, a large hole being made in the fore part of her larboard side, three feet above water. The Thetis towed the Brackley back to Greenock, where both were safely harboured.


Wooden schooner June, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1854. ON 1862, registered Liverpool 1854, 60 tons, in MNL to 1870. Reported lost in Appropriation Book, 23-7-1870.

[from Cheshire Observer - Saturday 20 May 1854]:
Launch. On Saturday morning, a fine vessel called the June, was launched at the yard of Messrs. Brundritt and Whiteway, ship-builders, Runcorn. She is capable of carrying 150 tons, and is, we believe intended for the coasting trade.


Wooden schooner Alma, built Bridgewater Trust, Runcorn, 1854. ON 1560, registered Liverpool 1855, 77 tons. Latterly owned John Brundrit, Runcorn, in MNL to 1881. Voyage Penmaenmawr to Dublin with setts, 4 crew and 2 passengers, all lost, after leaving on 22 July 1881. Presumably during storm on 24 July 1861.

[from Cheshire Observer - Saturday 25 November 1854]:
Launch. The Bridgewater trust have commenced building new vessels, as well as repairing old ones at Runcorn. Yesterday they launched the first new one. The vessel is called the Alma: she draws 17 inches round, and is calculated to carry 94 tons, at 4 feet 6 inches draught. Her model is much approved.

[from Runcorn Examiner - Saturday 20 August 1881]:
Supposed Loss of a Runcorn schooner and the crew. It is now about a month since any intelligence was received of the schooner Alma, which belongs to the port of Runcorn, and she is supposed to have been lost with her crew. She is a schooner of about 130 tons burthen, and belonged to Brundrit and Co., ship builders. The vessel had recently undergone extensive repairs, and on the 22nd July left Penmaenmawr for Dublin, having a cargo of 132 tons of setts. There were on board six persons, including the captain named Thomas Whitby, his wife, and a nephew about ten years old named Ward, two seamen, and a cook. Amongst these were Samuel Inglesfield and Matthew Edwards, both of Runcorn. It is supposed the vessel must have foundered during the heavy storm which occurred on Sunday the 24th July. Other vessels which left about the same time have put out two cargoes since then and no hopes are now entertained of the safety of the missing ship. Much sympathy is felt for the relatives of the persons on board the vessel.


Wooden schooner Mary Houghton, built Samuel Mason, Runcorn 1855. ON 25952, registered Liverpool 1855, 70 tons.
Tuesday 31st March 1857, she foundered off Kirk Michael with the loss of all aboard, but was raised several weeks later and taken to Peel where she was purchased and put back into service.
Registered Douglas 1858, then Newry 1893.
Voyage Douglas to Workington, in ballast, driven ashore near Maughold Head, 22 November 1893.

[from Chester Courant - Wednesday 15 August 1855]:
Launch. On Tuesday, the 31st ult., the beautiful schooner, the Mary Houghton, was launched from the yard of Mr. Samuel Mason. She glided from the ways in most admirable style. The vessels is calculated to carry about 150 tons. The owner and captain, Mr. George Houghton, ordered dinner for the workmen, about fifty in number, at the house of Mr. James Blundell, the Barley Mow Inn. .....

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Monday 25 May 1857]:
The Mary Houghton, Houghton, hence for Larne, has sunk off the coast of the Isle of Man. Neither the master, his wife and family, who were on board, nor any of the crew have been heard of; her mast has been discovered above water, and on a diver being sent down, her name was ascertained, and that she was laden with wheat.

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 10 September 1857]:
SCHOONER FOR SALE. BY Mr. C. R. RABY, on Monday next, the 14th instant, at Twelve o'clock, at Peel Harbour, Isle of Man. THAT very superior SCHOONER, Mary Houghton, of Liverpool, with all the material thereto belonging, consisting of masts, cables, anchors, &c. Measurement, n.m.; 79 86-100 ths; length, 72 feet; breadth 18 feet 5-10 ths; depth, 8 feet 9-10 ths, and carries about 130 tons, with a very light draft of water. She was built at Runcorn in 1855, and classed A 1 for eight years; shifts and sails well without ballast; is flat on the floor and grounds well, and is in all respects a very desirable vessel for any trade her size may suit, and might soon be prepared for sea.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Friday 24 November 1893]:
MARY HOUGHTON schooner went ashore last night near Maughold Head; in ballast; crew saved. (Castletown, Isle of Man, Nov 23.)

IOM Heritage site:
The Mary Houghton, Captain John Doran, master, departed from Douglas at 8.00 p.m. on Tuesday 21st November 1893, in ballast of 15 tons of stones, bound for Workington. At 10.00 p.m., when between Laxey and Maughold Head, the breeze freshened and the top gallant sail was taken in. By 4.00 a.m. the next day the wind was blowing a gale from the west so Captain Doran decided to put into Ramsey Bay for shelter. She anchored using her port anchor and 30 fathoms of cable about a mile off the shore at the Dog Mills, but as the wind freshened 50 fathoms were let out. This anchor held securely.
At 11.40 a.m. on Wednesday 22nd November 1893, Captain Doran hoisted a signal of distress as the wind strengthened considerably from the north-northeast and he feared that the anchor cable would part and there was insufficient water for the Mary Houghton to enter Ramsey harbour. The second anchor was then put down between 15 and 20 fathoms. Immediately, the crew of the Ramsey Lifeboat assembled and were quickly at sea. However, before they could reach the schooner a small half-decker the Two Brothers, of Ramsey, had taken off the three crewmen of the Mary Houghton for a payment of £2.
Later that night at 8.30 p.m., Captain Doran observed the Mary Houghton to burst her anchor cables and begin to drift in a southwesterly direction. By 10.00 p.m. she had drifted ashore on rocks a little to the southeast of Ego Quarry, near Maughold Head. Captain Doran went to the spot and found the vessel lying on her side on the rocks with her head to the east, the masts still standing. However, the Mary Houghton rapidly became a total wreck. The schooner was valued at £160.


Wooden brig Borland, built Anderton, Runcorn, 1855. ON 24344, registered Liverpool 1855, 141 tons. Lost in a storm in the Bay of Campeche, loading mahogany, Gulf of Mexico, 19 September 1863.

[from Chester Courant - Wednesday 13 June 1855]:
Launch. On Saturday last, the beautiful brig Borland was launched at the yard of Mr. John Anderton. The registered burthen is 180 tons, and the vessel is calculated to carry about 250 tons. A dinner was provided at Mr. Huxley's, the Royal Hotel, in the most recherche style, and set out in that superb manner for which the esteemed hostess of the Royal Hotel has been so long proverbial. Upwards of 90 guests assembled. At the principal table Samuel Wylde, Esq., part owner of the vessel, presided, ....
[Scilly Nov 3. 1862. Borland sailed for Cuba.]

[from Kerry Evening Post - Saturday 31 October 1863]:
The J. K. L., Hector, Fanny Mitchison, Borland, all loaded, John Howell, Mama, both loading, and the Edmund, were all wrecked in the Gulf of Mexico in the night of the 19th Sept.
[J.K.L. of Bristol, barque, 757 tons, built Quebec, captain Isbister, loading Mahogany in Bay of Campeachy [sic Campeche], river Coatzacoalcos, and was anchored offshore near port of Santa Anna [sic, not found], 12 or 13 crew lost and 5 saved; John Howell of Bristol, also near Santa Anna, 800 tons, about 12 lost, 3 saved.]


Wooden sloop Penmaen, built Runcorn, 1855. Registered Liverpool 368/1855, 54 tons, ON 7018, by 1865 owned Brundrit & Whiteway - so they are likely to have been the builders. By 1881, owned Owen Roberts, of Port Dinorwic. Register closed 1919, when owned Mersey Docks and Harbour Board.

[from Liverpool Weekly Courier - Saturday 06 April 1901]:
At Widnes, on Monday, David Basnett, 27, no fixed place of abode, was charged with having stolen a purse containing £1 from the person of Owen Roberts, captain of the flat Penmaen, lying in West Bank Dock. He pleaded guilty. Supt. Keighley stated that on Wednesday morning prosecutor met prisoner on the quay at West Bank Dock in a starving condition and took pity on him. He took him to a public-house and treated him to drink, and then took him to his flat and gave him a good breakfast. After the meal Roberts fell asleep, and while in that condition prisoner took his purse and the sovereign and made off.


Wooden brig Reviresco, built Mason, Runcorn, 1856 ON 15364, registered Liverpool, 1856, 114 tons, in MNL until 1866 owned Maxwell, Liverpool, Voyage Pomaron (Portugal, Sao Domingos Mine) with sulphur ore to Liverpool, wrecked on Platters, 24 December 1863.

[from Chester Courant - Wednesday 09 April 1856]:
Launch. On Saturday the beautiful clipper brig Reviresco was launched from the yard of Mr. Samuel Mason. She glided from the stocks in a most admirable style, mast and yards standing, and taut rigged, and presented a splendid appearance upon the river. Her lines are remarkably fine, and she is considered by good judges to be one of the most elegant models ever launched at Runcorn, and reflects the highest credit upon the talented designer, Mr. John Mason. Length over all, 95 feet; beam, 20.5 feet; depth of hold, 11.5 feet. Old measurement, 160 tons; new ditto, 120 tons. Registered at Lloyd's, first-class for seven years. The figure-head is a stag couchant, under a tree, with the motto "Reviresco," the arms of Mr. Maxwell, one of the owners. The other proprietors are Messrs. Hardy and Wylde, of Runcorn; and Mr. McCredi has been appointed to the command. ....

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Monday 28 December 1863]:
HOLYHEAD Dec. 24. The brig Reviresco, Canning, of and for Liverpool, from Pomaron, with sulphur ore, got on the Platter Rocks, near the Skerries yesterday, and is likely to become a total wreck; crew saved.


Wooden ship Dennis Brundrit, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1856 ON 17778, registered Liverpool 1856, 462 tons, later as a barque. In 1857, 5 of her crew attempted to rescue men aboard the stranded ship Walton Muncaster, but their boat overturned and 4 were drowned. In MNL to 1879 owned Doward, Liverpool. Then reappears in 1881, a barque, registered Stanley, Falklands, owned Falkland Island Company. The gap in registration was because she arrived at the Falklands, in May 1879, much damaged. After repairs, she was locally owned. On an inter-island voyage, wrecked, on 20 July 1892.

[from Chester Courant - Wednesday 24 September 1856]:
RUNCORN. LAUNCH OF THE DENNIS BRUNDRIT. Thursday, the 16th instant, was a proud day for RUNCORN, and will be remembered long after the bustle and excitement attendant upon the Agricultural Show and the Bazaar, both important events, are forgotten. The advantages and capabilities of this town for building vessels of a large class have been partially developed, but we trust that this may be regarded as the trade in its infancy, and that the future progress and extension of this trade will, by the spirit and enterprise of the builders, attain a height of which the present event, marvellous as fifteen years since it would have been thought, will be regarded as only the foreshadowing. The following are the dimensions of the noble vessel: Length for tonnage, 141 feet 2 inches; length over all, 161 feet; extreme breadth, 27 feet 4 inches; depth of hold, 18 feet 6 inches. Register tonnage, 468 tons. Builders measurement, 499. Burthen; 800 tons. Registered A 1 for 13 years. Ship rigged; coppered and copper fastened throughout; and is fitted with fire engine, patent pumps, and all the most modern and approved appliances for working. The figure-head is a three-quarters length likeness of the late Dennis Brundrit, Esq., and the coat of arms of that gentleman, surrounded by scroll ornaments, are emblazoned on the stern. The vessel will be commanded by Mr. L. Whiteway, nephew of Philip Whiteway, Esq. It was designed by Mr. James Boote, the talented foreman of Messrs. Brundrit and Whiteway, and both design and construction reflect the highest credit upon his abilities. Neither cost nor labour have been spared to render the ship an ornament to the mercantile navy. ...

[from Weekly Dispatch (London) - Sunday 23 August 1857]:
DREADFUL LOSS OF THE BRITISH SHIP WALTON MUNCASTER. Yesterday the copy of a dispatch from the English Consul at Caldera, on the coast of Chilli, was posted at Lloyd's, announcing the wreck of the British ship Walton Muncaster on the 30th June, and the loss of nearly the whole of the crew, and it is feared some passengers. The ill fated ship left London for South America about six months ago. She had loaded a cargo at Chanaral, and was returning to Caldera on her way to Liverpool, when she became becalmed and went on the rocks. The Consul thus reports the catastrophe: "The British barque Walton Muncaster, Mr. Mounsay, master, of Whitehaven, on leaving Chanaral, about 40 miles to the North of this place, in the latter part of last month, drifted upon a reef of rocks, in consequence of the wind failing and a heavy swell setting in upon the land. A boat was lowered to convey on shore the captain's wife, a Custom-house officer and ten seamen, which boat was capsized, and, with the exception of the officer, all on board perished. A boat from the British ship Dennis Brundrit, with five men on board, in attempting to rescue the master, mate and three or four of the crew (who have since arrived safe), was swamped, and four out of the five were drowned. The Governor of this port, and the Captain of the port, have assured me, that all assistance in their power was rendered by the authorities, and that it was impossible to send further aid from here." Another communication, received by the charterers of the ship, states that some of the passengers on board the Walton Muncaster were drowned. The ship was built at Whitehaven in 1850, and was insured.

[from Liverpool Albion - Saturday 07 June 1879]:
Casualties: Dennis Brundrit, from Cardiff for Callao, put in here with loss of mainmast, foretopgallantmast, yards, and sails, and mizenmast sprung. (Stanley, F.I., by telegraph).

[from Lloyd's List - Thursday 27 October 1892]:
THE STRANDING OF THE DENNIS BRUNDRIT. Magistrate's Court, Falkland Islands, Aug. 2, 1892. Finding of a Court of Inquiry held by direction of his Excellency the Governor, at the request of Captain Gill of the Dennis Brundrit, respecting the stranding of the British barque Dennis Brundrit, official number 17778, of the port of Stanley, Falkland Islands, 462 tons register, wood built, owned by Captain John Key Thomas, Lathom View, Egremont, Cheshire, England, and bound from Seal Inlet, San Carlos, East Falklands, with a cargo of wool, tallow, and hides, which occurred on Centre Island, Salvador, East Falklands, on July 20.
The Court, after hearing the evidence, have come to the conclusion that the grounding of the vessel Dennis Brundrit was entirely due to the sudden shifting of the wind, and the anchor not holding at the first, when let go - this being the only resource in such narrow waters and in such strong known tide. We find further that the passage chosen, viz., the western passage, was the one recommended by the Book of Directions, and, according to the evidence, is that most commonly used.
The Court further considers that every exertion was used to save the vessel, and have the agreeable duty of exonerating from blame the master, pilot, and mate, and herewith return their certificates.


Wooden brigantine Ellen Owen, built Runcorn, 1857. ON 17349, registered Aberystwyth 1857, 131 tons, owned Thomas Owen, New Quay, latterly as a schooner. In MNL to 1876. Voyage Workington to Swansea, with pig iron, ashore on Smalls in fog and wrecked, 27 April 1876, crew of 6 saved.

[from Dover Chronicle - Saturday 22 November 1862]:
The schooner Ellen Owen, of New Quay, Thomas master, laden with currants for Bremen, while putting into Dover harbour wind bound on Monday evening, ran into the pier, and sustained loss of bowsprit and jibboom, with other damage.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Wednesday 03 May 1876]:
MILFORD. May 1: The vessel reported on the Smalls on April 28 as the Telegram proves to be the Ellen Owen, of Newquay, Thomas, from Workington for Swansea, with pig iron; she went ashore at 1 p.m. on the 27th during a fog; crew landed here to-day by a Trinity yacht; vessel broken up; nothing now visible.

[from Carmarthen Journal - Friday 26 May 1876]:
BOARD OF TRADE: INQUIRY AT MILFORD. A Board of Trade inquiry was opened it the Lord Nelson Hotel, Milford, on Tuesday (before Messrs. T. Boone and B. Carron, magistrates; and Captains Nicolas and Parfitt, nautical assessors), in reference to the stranding of the brigantine Ellen Owen, which occurred on the 27th of April last, while on a voyage from Workington to Swansea. It appears that at three a.m., during a dense fog, the vessel struck on the south-west rocks near the Smalls lighthouse....
Thomas Davies deposed: I was an able-bodied seaman on board the Ellen Owen. She belonged to Aberystwith; her registered tonnage was 131 tons, and she belonged to Capt. Thomas and others. He lives at New Quay, Cardigan. She is a brigantine, and built of wood at Runcorn, being classed A 1 at Lloyd's. The crew consisted of six hands. Her cargo was pig iron. She sailed from Workington on the 22nd of April last, about nine am., it being then near high water. The weather was fine, there being a nice breeze from the eastward. The vessel was in good sailing condition, and was fitted with all necessary gear. There were two pumps on board, both being in good working order. We also had two boats on board, in proper order, light and staunch. The ship was bound to Swansea. About midnight on the 24th the weather was thick, and clearing up now and then; that was the character of the weather all Sunday; the wind then was about S.E., light. We made Cardigan Bay on Tuesday, the 26th; made Cardigan Bay lightship about 10 a.m. The light ship was bearing S.E., about four or five miles from us. The wind was then W.S.W. The vessel was on the starboard tack. She was heading in for the land about south, towards Fishguard Bay. About two o'clock in the afternoon we saw Fishguard Bay, and Strumble Head. We tacked the ship northward; there was a strong breeze from the westward, Soon after that, tacked the ship again about six p.m. and stood for St. David's Head, tacked the ship again, about seven or eight o'clock, out to sea northward. Continued on that tack till 11 p.m., when it became calm, and we tacked the ship again to the south. There was no steerage way on the vessel. The weather was fine and clear. We were drifted to and fro with the tide, and saw land about the Bishops. The Bishops were in sight during the first watch. We were becalmed during two tides. We fell in with the Bishops on the 26th at 12 at noon; and we worked down between the islands between Skokum [sic] and Grasholm. There was a light breeze. We were on the port tack towards Grasholm at seven p.m., and going about one and a half knots. Nothing occurred excepting that about eight the weather became thicker; we lost sight of Grasholm and everything. The island, when we saw it, was about S.S.W. The wind kept like that till eleven o'clock. At eleven the wind shifted to the westward, and we tacked ship to the south. About midnight we could hear sea roaring on the weather bow - I mean breakers, about S.W. of us. The vessel at that time was heading south; weather thick, with light wind. We saw no light, and were going about one knot. We wore the vessel to the north, and steered to the north till we lost the sound of breakers, which we did in about half an hour. We then steered N. by W. half W., and kept this course till two o'clock on the 27th. I then took the wheel. I steered N.W. by N. Nothing particular happened until three a.m.. when I saw something like a star. We could see nothing but the star in the north. It was on our lee bow. The ship then went on the rocks. Immediately she struck we put the jolly boat out. The captain did nothing but walk to and fro on the deck. He afterwards went below, but did not stay long. After we got into the boat we steered clear of the rocks, and left the vessel immediately, and went right away from her. At daylight we found ourselves among the Smalls rocks, we could just hear the sound of the bell on the lighthouse. We afterwards, about five o'clock. got on the Smalls rock. With the assistance of the lighthouse keepers we landed. The boat was allowed to go adrift. We were afterwards taken from the Smalls lighthouse by the Trinity yacht on the 1st inst., and were landed at Milford about seven a.m. the same day. When the vessel struck the rock, we were a very short distance from the Smalls rocks, about a cable's length. All hands were on deck all night keeping a look-out.
By Mr Evans: We left the vessel to her fate, and did not hang about her. We thought only of saving our lives.
By Captain Thomas: When the star was reported I saw you go to the compass and take a bearing, immediately after which the ship struck. From the time the light appeared till the ship struck about two minutes elapsed.
By Captain Nicholas: I shipped on the voyage as able seaman. The crew consisted of Captain, Neste[sic, mate?], three able seamen, and an apprentice. I did not take a regular trick at the wheel. I went there that night fearing they would steer wrongly. I went to the wheel at two a.m., when I had a suspicion of danger. I steered N.W., by N., and remained at the wheel an hour, till she struck. The captain and all hands were on deck. When the light was first seen I was at the wheel - all hands on the look out, I heard the men sing out that there was a light. I cannot say who first mentioned it. The Captain was there at the time. When the light was visible the ship was going about two or three knots. She might have passed clear of the rock, but I cannot say. The draft of water was 13ft. 8in. aft. 11ft. 1in or 11ft. 2in. forward. We had a hand lead, and a line on deck, but did not use it. When we struck, we knew where we were. There was nothing to prevent the lead from being used. The captain was perfectly sober. She appeared to me to strike somewhere forward. The weather was hazy. Saw the rocks in shore. There was nothing to prevent the launching of the large boat. The tide was running about four knots, it was about half ebb, running to the south-west. We steered as we thought to get clear of all danger. I do not know whether if the lead had been used we should have realised our danger. Between three to six o'clock we did not go more than three knots. It was high water about ten o'clock. When we got ashore we saw the masts of the ship. About five o'clock the masts came out.
Capt. Parfitt: I don't know when it was high water on the rock. The captain went into the cabin after she struck. She stuck fast after she struck, and did not bump. After we left the ship we did not see her again till we got on the rock.
Robert Smith, who was also an able seaman on board the Ellen Owens, was next examined. His evidence was corroborative of that given by the previous witness. Joseph M'Call, able-seaman, Enoch Thomas, Captain, and John Thomas, mate, were next examined. The evidence of these witnesses was substantially the same as that given by the two former witnesses. .....
On the assembling of the court at three o'clock in the afternoon. Captain Thomas was called into the room, when the following decision was read by Mr Vaughan James, magistrates' Clerk: "The court is of opinion that the loss of the Ellen Owen on the Smalls rock, was caused by the master, Enoch Tomas, not having made sufficient allowance for the great strength of the tide in the locality. From the evidence of the courses steered, it appears that (with light and variable winds and fine weather) the vessel must have been set several miles dead to windward in a few hours. The fog was also so dense that although a good look-out was kept, the light on the Smalls was not discerned till close to, and the vessel was within few yards of the rocks. After striking the rock the crew appear to have been panic-stricken, and abandoned the vessel in the greatest haste, without waiting to ascertain if she had sustained any damage. The master, however, was the last to leave, and did remain long enough to discover that she was rapidly making water. In other respects the navigation of the vessel appears to have been well conducted, and the court do not consider the above nautical error of judgment on the part of the master calls for more than an admonishment to be more careful for the future. Under these circumstances the court will request the Board of Trade to render to Mr Enoch Thomas his certificate of service".


Wooden schooner Bertha, built J & T Thompson, Runcorn 1857, owned J Johnson. Sr 87t; ON 12322 registered Liverpool 1857, 86 tons, later owned Bennett, Marazion, registered Penzance from 1893 to 1898, 58 tons. Register closed 1899.

[from Cornishman - Thursday 01 August 1895:
Penzance shipping: Tuesday. Arrived the schooner Bertha (Harry) in tow SS Merlin from St Michael's Mount, china clay.

[from Lloyd's List - Friday 04 November 1898]:
Cardiff. Arrived. Bertha, Harry, Penzance. [last report found in newspapers]


Wooden schooner Cheshire Lass, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1857. ON 19581, registered Liverpool, 1857, 85 tons, by 1863 registered Runcorn. In MNL to 1880, owned Ravenscroft, Runcorn, 79 tons. Voyage Dublin to Runcorn with timber, sunk by collision with SS Calliengo, off the Skerries, 15 April 1881.

[from Cheshire Observer - Saturday 12 September 1857]:
Launch. On Saturday last, a very pretty little vessel, about 150 tons burthen, was launched in the presence of a crowd of spectators from the ship-yard of Messrs. Brundritt and Whiteway. The vessel was called the Cheshire Lass.

[from Runcorn Examiner - Saturday 23 April 1881]:
Loss of a Runcorn schooner. The schooner Cheshire Lass, of which Mr. S. Ravenscroft, of Runcorn, was managing owner, was sunk on the 15th inst. The vessel was commanded by Captain Ellis, of Runcorn, and had a crew of five men, all belonging to that port. She was bound from Dublin to Runcorn with a cargo of timber. When off the Skerries, she came in collision with the Spanish steamer named Calliengo, outward bound from the Mersey to Santander. The schooner was damaged to such an extent that she sank immediately after the collision. When news of the disaster first reached Runcorn, there was some alarm as to the safety of the crew. These fears, however, were allayed by a telegram received by Mr. Ravenscroft, informing him that the crew had succeeded in getting on board the steamer. The men were landed at Santander on Tuesday morning.


Wooden brig Selina, built Anderton, Runcorn 1857, registered Aberystwith, 199 tons, owned Thomas Jones, New Quay. ON 18797. RCUS gives built Runcorn 1857, 10 crew. Voyage Ibraila [now Braila] to Britain with barley, collision with Genovese brig Virginia, in Sea of Marmora, foundered, 20 March 1861. Crew saved.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Thursday 28 May 1857]:
RUNCORN. May 25. Launched on Saturday, the 23rd inst., from the building-yard of Mr. John Anderton, a brig called the Selina, 252 tons O.M.; she is commanded by Captain Jones, of Newquay, and intended for the Brazilian trade.

[from Sun (London) - Friday 05 April 1861]:
The brig Selina, of New Quay, Wales, Capt. Jones, with a cargo of barley from Ibraila for the United Kingdom, was run into on Wednesday morning at one o'clock, in the Marmora, about 30 miles from the Bosphorus, by a Sardinian [sic] vessel, in ballast, coming up. The shock was so great that the brig instantly began to fill, and shortly afterwards foundered, the captain and men having only time to escape by jumping on board the Sardinian brig. The crew, nine in number, are now at the Sailors' Home.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Friday 12 April 1861]:
Constantinople. April 3: Captain Thomas Jones, of the brig Selina, of Aberystwith, has just started home for England, his vessel having been run down in the Sea of Marmora on the morning of the 20th of March... The Salina (grain) was from Ibrail for Cork or Falmouth, for orders. On the date just mentioned, an hour after midnight, she was all well, and off the Island of Marmora, close hauled on the port tack, topgallantsails stowed, and heading about W to W 0.5 S. She had a green and also a red light hoisted, and the weather was fine, moonlight, and altogether a tolerably clear night, with a nice breeze. Among several vessels running up was a Genoese brig, in ballast, sailing free, four or five points off the wind, and apparently without any light hoisted, or a proper look-out. The Selina, according to the rule of the road, kept her course, and on the Genoese nearing the Selina, she was hailed by Captain Jones, who, with five hands, was on deck. The Genoese, subsequently discovered to be the Virginia, Costa, should have bore up and passed under the stern of the Selina, but when hailed she luffed up, ran into the Selina's lee bow, abreast the fore hatch, dismasted and sunk her, the crew and Captain Jones having barely time to save their lives by jumping on board the Virginia, and losing everything but what they stood in. The crew of the Selina were, next day, at noon, all landed at Constantinople, and lodged in the British Sailor's Home, protest duly made and extended, and an application sent to the British and Italian Consulates to stop the Virginia or her captain, but the Genoese, being in ballast, had immediately cleared and slipped sway into the Black Sea. As matters stand here now, an English captain, when plaintiff, never gets justice from a foreign Consulate. They work by a "Commission" and an Englishman goes to the wall. We want a sweeping reform, and at once.


Wooden smack Gwydir, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn 1858, 55 tons, ON 22042 - more history here. [Vessel called "Widders" built Runcorn 1858 - listed Schooner Port - seems to be the same vessel] Wrecked by collision 1902


Wooden schooner Alice, built Brundrit & Whiteway, Runcorn, 1859. ON 22190. Registered Caernarfon, 1859, 64 tons. In 1887, converted to a steamer (screw 28 hp), registered Liverpool by 1898, owned Gibney, Liverpool, register closed 1908. Gibney is reported as master in 1895, when vessel seems to have been used for towing between Liverpool and Runcorn. He advertised his services as a salvage contractor.

[from Warrington Standard and Lancashire and Cheshire Advertiser - Saturday 29 January 1859]:
Runcorn. On Saturday last, a schooner of about 130 tons burthen, was launched from the ship-building yard of Messrs Brundrit and Whiteway. She was called "Alice" after the daughter of the owner, Mr. Bowden.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Tuesday 02 January 1900]:
Divers and Contractors. JOHN GIBNEY, SON, & CO., Halton-buildings. 44, Chapel-street, Liverpool. Owners of the salvage steamers Alice and Gleaner. Centrifugal steam pumps on hire.


Wooden brig Lymm Gray, built Anderton, Runcorn, 1859. ON 27452, registered Liverpool 1859, 123 tons. In 1865 MNL owned Hardy, Lymm, 124 tons, in MNL to 1866. Voyage Galati (Danube) to Hellevoetsluis (Netherlands), damaged by ice and wrecked, 14 January 1864.

[from Warrington Guardian - Saturday 09 April 1859]:
RUNCORN. LAUNCH OF THE LYMM GRAY. The inhabitants of Runcorn are often enlivened by the scenes witnessed at the ship-yards on the day of launch, Wednesday last, a fine new Brig called the "Lymm Gray," about 200 tons burthen, entered her native element from the yard of Mr. John Anderton. Castle Rock. The sun shone with more than ordinary splendour, and the weather was proportionately warm, owing to the gentleness of the breeze. The Ship-yard of Mr. Anderton is so situated that from various sites opposite and surrounding it, a good view may seen of any launches which occur there. On this occasion a vast number obtained entrance to the yard itself; others from Belvedere and Castle Rock stood in crowds to witness the scene; but what, to our minds, rendered the affair most imposing was the groups of persons on the opposite side of the river, on the green sward, near the Boathouse Inn, who seemed to remind us of bye-gone days. The river was beautifully studded with flags, which were borne by boats and vessels large and small. About half past one o'clock, everything being in readiness, the command was given "knock down dagger" and the vessel, as if careless about receiving a name, and seeming only impatient to enter upon the briny water, darted swiftly but steadily away, amid the roars of the cannon at Widnes, and the loud hurrahs which burst from the lips of many hundreds spectators. The vessel is the property of Messrs. Hardey & Wylde, corn merchants. ....

[from Liverpool Albion - Monday 18 January 1864]:
Jan 14. ... Lymm Gray, from Galatz, cut through by ice, and sunk on Helvoet. [Gatati on Danube in Romania; Hellevoetsluis, Zeeland]


Wooden schooner Jessie, built Anderton, Runcorn, 1859. ON 27459, registered Liverpool 1859, 69 tons, owned Kneeshaw, Liverpool, to 1878. Lost off Liverpool, 29 March 1878, all aboard lost.

[from Liverpool Weekly Courier - Saturday 30 March 1878]:
During the night of Friday the schooner Jessie, of Liverpool, belonging to Messrs. Kneeshaw, Lupton, and Co., of Liverpool and Llandulas, was discovered about a mile out at sea, keel uppermost. The vessel was laden with limestone, and the supposition is that during the darkness she must have got upon one of the sandbanks in the estuary of the Dee. All the seamen on board are supposed to have perished. The body of the master (Captain Evans) has been washed ashore. The Jessie ran ashore in a storm off Rhyl some nine years ago, when the captain and three men were rescued with difficulty. She was then commanded by Captain Evans, whose body the Rhyl men have now found. [a boat belonging to the vessel has also come ashore]


Wooden brig Juanita, built Anderton, Runcorn, 1860, 190 tons. ON 28644, registered Liverpool 1860, in MNL to 1874, owned Conaway, Liverpool. Note advertised as "Liverpool-built". Voyage Liverpool to Vera Cruz, ashore on Anegadilla reef and wrecked, 2 April 1873.

[from Northern Daily Times - Monday 24 September 1860]:
FOR VERA CRUZ, The fine new Liverpool-built Brig JUANITA, Captain Davies; A 1 at Lloyd's, 190 tons, coppered, and expected to be one of the fastest vessels in the trade. For terms, &c. apply on board, in George's Dock; to W. & J. TYRER, or A. POWER. Will be succeeded by the fine iron-built clipper Schooner ANGELITA, A 1 thirteen years.

January 1873 advertised loading at Liverpool for Matamoros and Tampico.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Thursday 08 May 1873]:
Vera Cruz. April 6. The Juanita, brig, Herbert, of and from Liverpool, went ashore on the Anegadilla Reef, about 25 miles east of this port, on the 2nd inst. An agreement has been made with the steamer Tabasco far 30 per cent, of salvage, and she proceeded for the wreck this morning with lighters in tow.
April 7: The Tabasco returned last evening, and reports that the Juanita parted in the middle and went down yesterday; the goods saved are roughly estimated at 600 packages, viz., 300 pkgs of dry goods, apparently in good condition, 200 pkgs of hardware, and 100 pkgs of rice.

Wooden schooner Lancashire Lass, built Runcorn 1861, 56 tons, owned Kirkham, Runcorn, ON 29630, then, by 1886, owned West Hartlepool. More history. Voyage West Mersea to Hartlepool, leaving 12 November 1893, and posted missing, all 4 crew lost.

[from Carlisle Journal - Tuesday 02 July 1861]:
Port of Whitehaven. Arrived. June 29th. Lancashire Lass, Kirkham, Belfast.

[from Northern Echo - Tuesday 28 November 1893]:
Very little hope is now entertained of the safety of the schooner Lancashire Lass, of West Hartlepool, although the owners, Messrs Lennard & Danby, state that they occasionally have vessels missing for a longer period than this case. The Lancashire Lass left West Mersea, in ballast, for West Hartlepool about the 12th inst., and has not since been heard of. It was commanded by Capt. W. Porritt, of Sandsend, near Whitby, and the mate was W. Halligay, of George-street, Whitby. There are also on board two youths belonging to West Hartlepool - Chas. Battran, of Milton-road, and Mitchell, of Alma-street. The vessel was a wooden schooner of about 50 tons, and was built at Runcorn.


Widnes built vessels:


Wooden schooner Salt, built Woodend, Mersey, 1855. Registered Liverpool 29/1855, 53 tons. ON 2351, registered Lancaster 1859-1876, owned at Ulverston, then by Fisher, Barrow. Then Runcorn 1877-1884, latterly owned at Abersoch, 54 tons. MNL from 1872 states built Liverpool. The sale advert quotes built Woodend, which is where the Sankey Navigation enters the Mersey at Widnes - later called West Bank. Shipbuilding is documented there from 1856, but this is evidence of even earlier activity. However, the advertisement naming Woodend could be a misprint. More history. Voyage Maryport to Killala, late October 1884, driven ashore in Wigtown Bay and wrecked, crew saved.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Wednesday 06 January 1858]:
ON SALE, The round-sterned Schooner SALT; 55 tons; built at Woodend in 1855, of English oak; she has always been employed in the iron ore trade, in which she is well known: carries 95 tons on a light draft of water. Dimensions: Length 65 feet 1-10th, breadth 16 feet 9-10ths, depth 7 feet.

[from Barrow Herald and Furness Advertiser - Saturday 31 July 1869]:
Launch of a schooner at Barrow. [Beatrice built by Fisher] ... when James Fisher was responding, he made a humerous allusion to Captain Hugh Iddon, of the schooner Salt, as one of the oldest captains in his employ, which was received with great laughter. ...

[from Shields Daily Gazette - Friday 24 October 1884]:
The schooner Salt, of Runcorn, from Maryport to Killala, sank on Stroons Bank, Wigtown Bay, crew saved. [sic, Stroons Bank not identified]

Back to top.

Frodsham built sea-going sailing vessels (at Frodsham Bridges, on the River Weaver), these are those known to have been built at Frodsham - there will be many more.

[from Chester Chronicle - Friday 08 November 1811]:
TO BE LET, AND ENTERED UPON IMMEDIATELY, That well established SHIP and BOAT-BUILDING YARD, situate at Frodsham Bridge, in the county of Chester, now in the occupation of Mr. Isaac Waite, together with the Graving Dock, Counting House, Smithy, Saw Pits, Sheds, Stoves, and other conveniencies erected thereon, suitable for carrying on an extensive business. For further particulars, apply to Mr. William Tomlinson, King-street, Soho, Liverpool, or to Mr Isaac Waite on the premises.

Wooden schooner Sparling, built Frodsham, 1815, Registered Liverpool 1855, 61 tons, then Chester from 1866, ON 8688, latterly owned Jones, Liverpool, 52 tons. In MNL to 1910. More history. Leaving Liverpool, 22 February 1910, ashore in Mersey Channel, crew of 2 saved.

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 23 February 1910]:
SCHOONER ASHORE IN THE MERSEY, RESCUE OF THE CREW. Last evening about eight o'clock, the outward bound schooner Sparling got ashore in a heavy wind in the channel near to Q 6 black buoy at the mouth of the Mersey. Signals of distress from the schooner were seen simultaneously at New Brighton and Formby and responded to by the lifeboats from both places being promptly turned out. lt was found, however, that the crew, consisting of two men, had been taken off the Sparling by the incoming steamer Alison. The Sparling is understood to be lying in a somewhat critical position.

[from Lloyd's List - Friday 25 February 1910]:
Sparling. London, Feb. 25. The London Salvage Association have received the following telegram from the Liverpool Salvage Association, dated Liverpool, Feb. 24, re Sparling: Cargo coal. Coastguard reports vessel full water, bulwarks gone, sprung on port quarter, both anchors lost. It is six miles walk across sands to reach vessel at low water. Will send officer to-morrow to follow tide and make examination, but fear case hopeless as owing to distance men would have to travel there would be little time between tides to do any work.

MDHB records: SOLD TO MR J HUGHES OF CROSBY FOR FIVE POUNDS STERLING ON 5.3.1910. LATER BROKEN UP AND REMOVED BY HIM. HEIGHT 20FT ABOVE LBD.


Wooden sloop Thomas & Ann, built Frodsham, 1816, ON 27015, registered Chester 1852, 52 tons. In MNL to 1892, latterly owned Coppack, Connah's Quay, 53 tons. More history. Foundered in entrance to Dee, carrying iron, late June 1892.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 02 July 1892]:
Messrs Gibney and Co. have just effected the salvage of some 150 barrels of speigel iron from the flat Thomas and Ann, which was sunk at the entrance to the river Dee a few days ago,


Wooden sloop Ann, built Frodsham 1816, registered Liverpool 274/1852, 62 tons. ON 6984. By 1866 registered Runcorn, owned William Rigby, 54 tons. Lost 7-1-1879 on Dutchman's Bank, near Beaumaris, crew saved, voyage Liverpool to Anglesey with coal.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Saturday 11 January 1879]:
MARINE DISASTERS. HOME..... Beaumaris Jan 8. ... The Ann, of Runcorn, is also a total wreck, crew saved by their own boat. Both vessses got on the Dutchman's Bank last evening about 6 p.m. in a snowstorm.


Wooden galliot/schooner Kent, built Frodsham 1816, registered Lancaster 31/1836, 79 tons, possibly sold 1844 to Bridgewater, registered there 1845-63, 78 tons, ON 10820, then registered Chepstow 1864-67. Voyage Gloucester to Porthdinllaen, with timber, ashore near Aberdaron and wrecked, 21 October 1867, crew saved. [More detail of wreck].

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 01 August 1844]:
ON SALE, The Schooner KENT, Now lying in Glasson Dock, Lancaster; burthen 78 tons, new measure; carries a large cargo, sails well, is in good order, and well found; has been a regular trader between Glasson Dock, Lancaster, and Liverpool; and is to be sold in consequence of having more vessels than required for the trade, from the union of the two companies. For particulars apply to John Rigg, St George's Quay. Lancaster, or WILLIAM DOWSON and SON, 9, Goree-plazzas.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Wednesday 23 October 1867]:
PWLLHELI - Oct. 22: SW, rain. The schooner Kent, Cumper, of Chepstow, from Gloucester for Portinllaen, came on shore near Aberdaron at 8 A.M. on the 21st, and is a total wreck; crew saved and forwarded home by the agent the Shipwrecked Fishermen and Mariners Royal Benevolent Society. A large number of spruce deals [also reported as oak] have been washed on shore in this neighbourhood and taken possession of by the Receiver of Droits. [3 miles from Aberdaron, near Bardsey]


Wooden schooner Waterloo, built Frodsham 1817, registered Runcorn 16/1849, 61 tons, ON 8769, later registered Beaumaris and then Belfast. In MNL to 1891 when 49 tons. [Schooner port gives Waterloo built Frodsham, 1815 schooner, 61 tons] Advertised for sale in 1854, by Hazlehurst, Frodsham Bridge, as 105 tons burthen.

[from Lloyd's List - Monday 15 September 1890]:
Waterloo. Holyhead Sept. 13., Schooner Waterloo, with slates, from Aberdvey for Ballyshannon, put in Old Harbour, leaky.


Wooden schooner Holyhead Trader, built Frodsham 1821, 57 tons. ON 10648. Registered Beaumaris 125/1836, 4/1849, 62 tons,wrecked 1881. More history. Voyage Portmadoc to Belfast with slates, leaky, abandoned, and ashore at Gobbins, 19 December 1880.

[from Northern Whig - Friday 31 December 1880]:
Cheap Vessel. The schooner, Holyhead Trader, which, it may remembered, sprung a leak in the Channel during the gale on Sunday the 19th inst., while on the passage from Portmadoc to Belfast, and was abandoned near the entrance to Belfast Lough, but afterwards went ashore at the Gobbins, on the Islandmagee coast - has been sold by auction. The sum realised for hull, gear, &c., was £2 10s. The vessel was laden with a valuable cargo of slates, which has not yet been got out, but may be saved should the weather keep moderate.


Wooden sloop Collins, built Frodsham 1824 [from Schooner Port]. Probably vessel registered Runcorn 4/1847, 38 tons. ON 12391, in MNL to 1864.


Wooden schooner Isabella, built Hayes & Co., Frodsham 1825 [from MNL, Schooner Port quotes built 1821], ON 1534. Registered Carlisle 1848, 61 tons, in MNL to 1875, owned Irving, Carlisle, 53 tons. Voyage Port Dinorwic to Maryport with slates, 26 October 1875, ashore near Drigg and wrecked, crew saved.

[from Soulby's Ulverston Advertiser and General Intelligencer - Thursday 28 October 1875]:
LOSS OF A SCHOONER NEAR WHITEHAVEN. The schooner Isabella, of Port Carlisle, 53 tons, Roberts, master, struck on the rocks at Drigg near Whitehaven, on Tuesday morning, at two o'clock. The crew climbed into the rigging, where they remained till about ten o'clock, when they were rescued by the crew of the Seascale lifeboat. The men have lost all their effects, and part of the cargo of the vessel has been washed out. The schooner is expected to become a total wreck. She was bound from Port Dinorwic to Maryport, with slates and enamelled chimney pieces. The exact injuries to the vessel are not known. Her hull is submerged with each tide.


Wooden schooner Pheasant, built Frodsham 1826. ON 17254, registered Preston 1847, 57 tons, then Lancaster 1863 - 76, 49 tons, latterly owned Fisher, Barrow. Broken up 1871. More history.

Last newspaper report found: From Lancaster, sailed: 20 Sept. 1870: Pheasant for Barrow with iron. Master: Jackson


Wooden schooner Frances, built Frodsham 1831, Registered Liverpool 1837, 66 tons, ON 24185, by 1872, 52 tons, owned Prince, Liverpool, registered Liverpool. Register closed 1895, when 49 tons.

[from Soulby's Ulverston Advertiser and General Intelligencer - Thursday 01 December 1881]:
The schooner Frances, of Liverpool, bound from Duddon to Saltney, with iron ore, during the height of the gale about half-past one o'clock at noon, was driven on the sea wall of the Cavendish Dock [at Barrow], near Parrock Hall signal box, owing to the high tide. The tide was not sufficiently high to float her, and it is expected that she will have to be unloaded and launched from her present position.


Wooden sloop Robert, built Frodsham 1831, 67 tons. ON 1586, registered Liverpool 1853, 67 tons, in MNL to 1921, 57 tons, owned Liverpool Lighterage Co - so possibly used as a barge.


Wooden sloop Maria, built Frodsham 1833, 37 tons, ON 21972, registered Chester to 1883, owned Eyton, Flintshire, by 1880 owned Williams, Nevin. In MNL to 1885. More history.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Monday 23 April 1883]:
RUNCORN. sailed. Maria, Williams, Nevin.


Wooden schooner William, built Frodsham 1833, 60 tons, registered Liverpool, 101/1836, 68 tons, then 1848, 69 tons, ON 24040, in MNL to 1885, latterly owned Jones, Rhyl.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 21 March 1885]:
COLLISION IN THE RIVER. - The steamer Owain Tudor, whilst going down the river early yesterday morning, came into collision with the schooner William of Rhyl, which was lying at anchor. The schooner was severely damaged and sank in a few minutes, the crew just getting clear of her in their punt before she went down.


Wooden sloop New John, built Frodsham 1834, 51 tons, Registered Liverpool 1836, ON 1469, in MNL to 1910, owned Lewis, Liverpool.


Wooden schooner James, built Frodsham, 1835. ON 1303, registered Liverpool 1841, 59 tons, then 45 tons, owned Buckley, by 1876. In MNL to 1883, latterly owned Pwllheli.

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 23 February 1876]:
FOR SALE, The Schooner JAMES, 44 97-100 tons register. Built at Frodsham; carries 85 tons, and requires no ballast; about 18 months ago had over £500 spent on her. and is now in good working order. Dimensions: Length, 62.1 feet; breadth, 15.5 feet; depth, 6.6 feet.


Wooden sloop Elizabeth, built Frodsham 1836, registered Liverpool 1853 as 63 tons, for sale in 1853 as 53 tons. ON 16500, later 55 tons and, by 1872, 35 tons, owned Penmaenmawr, built Frodsham 1836. Voyage Pwllheli to Birkenhead with setts, foundered 14 September 1886 off Bardsey, 4 crew saved in own boat.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Friday 17 September 1886]:
Elizabeth. Whilst the tug United States was towing up the ship Dolbadern Castle, 20 miles NW by W off Bardsey, on the 15th inst, she fell in with a small boat containing two men and two boys belonging to the sloop Elizabeth, which foundered eight miles off Bardsey Island the night previous whilst blowing a NE gale. Took them on board very much exhausted by pulling about after passing vessels, and landed them at Liverpool Landing-stage. (Liverpool. Sept 16).

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 18 September 1886]:
FOUNDERING OF SLOOP. SIXTEEN HOURS IN OPEN BOAT. We briefly announced in our yesterday's issue, the steam-tug United States has landed at Liverpool four persons who formed the crew of the sloop Elizabeth. They consisted of two men and two boys, and were picked up at sea in an open boat by the tugboat. The Elizabeth foundered on last Tuesday night, a short distance from Bardsey light. She was going to Birkenhead from Pwllheli with stone setts. She sailed from Pwllheli on Tuesday morning. The weather encountered was very heavy, and the water came continually over the deck, going down into hold. This continued until about midnight, when the vessel foundered. The pumps had been previously used. The crew could see that their vessel could not remain long afloat, and got into their small boat in time to escape going down with the vessel. The men lost all their effects. They then cruised about in the hope of meeting with a passing vessel, but it was not until they had been sixteen hours in their tiny craft that they sighted the tug United States towing another vessel. They pulled towards the tugboat, and were received on board, and subsequently landed at Liverpool. While in the open boat the sea was rough, it took the crew all their time to free their boat of water. On arrival at Liverpool the crew were taken charge of by the Shipwrecked Mariners' Society. The Elizabeth belonged to Mr. David Williams, of Port Dinorwic.


Wooden schooner Weaver, built Frodsham 1836. Registered Liverpool 125/1836, 59 tons. ON 8128, registered Liverpool 1850, 51 tons, then registered Caernarfon 1864-82, 49 tons, latterly owned Owen, Caernarfon.

[from Nottingham Evening Post - Thursday 01 January 1880]:
Life boat services in 1879: ..., schooner Weaver of Caernarvon, remained by vessel. ...


Wooden sloop William, built Frodsham 1836, 43 tons, registered Liverpool 1836, ON 1640, in MNL to 1885, latterly owned Stitt, Kirkudbright.


Wooden schooner Briton, built Frodsham 1837. ON 25602, registered Liverpool 1853, 53 tons, then registered Runcorn 1869-85, latterly owned Tralee, 47 tons. More hstory.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Tuesday 17 April 1877]:
At Bridgewater... For Sale. ... THE Schooner BRITON, with her boat, anchors, chains, ropes, warps, stores, and apparel. The above schooner is now moored in the Floating Dock, Bridgwater, and is of and from the Port of Runcorn. Her registered tonnage is 46.55, and burthen ?? tons. The Auctioneer specially directs the attention of Merchants, Shipmasters. Shipowners, and others to the above Vessel as being a strongly-built, useful craft. in good, sound sea-going condition, and well adapted for the coal, brick, tile, timber, and general Coasting Trade of the Port.


Wooden schooner Reliance, built Frodsham, 1838, ON 8078 registered Liverpool, 83 tons, later 74 tons. Owned Samuel Smith, Frodsham Bridge. In 1887 used as a coal hulk.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Thursday 13 February 1868]:
Garston: Reliance, 73, Mullinger, T H Williams & Co. [traded to Ardrossan, Whitehaven,..]


Wooden schooner Sarah, built Frodsham 1838 [reported in Schooner Port, 68 tons]. Presumably the vessel advertised for sale in 1854 by Hazlehurst, Frodsham Bridge shipyard. No matching vessel in MNL by 1872. Possibly vessel registered Runcorn 5/1847, 68 tons, then Liverpool 714/1854, ON 24267, in MNL to 1864. A very common name - so hard to identify.


Wooden schooner George & Sarah, built Frodsham 1838, 69 tons. ON 1464, registered Liverpool 82/1844, 70 tons, from 1870 registered Runcorn. In MNL to 1883, owned Abram, Runcorn. Voyage Liverpool to Girvan, with salt, drive ashore at Maughold Head and wrecked, 2 February 1883, 2 lost, 2 saved. More details of wreck on IOM heritage site.

[from Runcorn Examiner - Saturday 10 February 1883]:
WRECK OF THE GEORGE AND SARAH OF RUNCORN. Early on Friday morning last week, the schooner George and Sarah, of Runcorn, was wrecked on Maughold Head, Isle of Man, and the mate, John Garnett, of Runcorn, and William James Hatton, 16 years of age, the captain's stepson, lost their lives. The captain and owner of The vessel (which was not insured) is Mr. J. Abrams, of Waterloo, Runcorn. The vessel left Runcorn on the 20th ult. laden with salt for Girvan, and departed from Liverpool on the 1st inst. in fair weather and with a southerly wind, but during the night a violent snowstorm arose, and the vessel was dashed upon the rocks. In the sea which was running no boat could live, and no attempt was made to launch the one which the vessel carried. Garnett, the mate, was washed off the deck and drowned, and Hatton, the boy, was washed from the rock where his stepfather and Carter, a seaman, were clinging, and was afterwards washed on the shore when it was discovered that his neck was broken. The captain and Carter managed with difficulty to keep in their perilous position, despite the violence of the storm, until daylight. They then saw they were on a boulder rock, while above them towered the cliffs to a height of 180 feet. The only way to escape from the spot was by climbing the face of the cliff, but the captain was too exhausted to make the attempt. Carter, however, bravely accomplished the task, and secured the help of Mr. John Killip, farmer, of Ballafayle Cannel, Ramsay, and his son, who, with the aid of a rope, hauled up the captain. They were taken to Mr. Killip's house, where every attention was paid to the distressed seamen. It has since been reported that the shock to the system received by Mr. Killip's daughter on that occasion has caused her death. Mr. Abrams arrived in Runcorn on Saturday. A concert, on behalf of the widow and children of the deceased seaman Garnett, will be given in Ellesmere-street school some evening next week.


Wooden schooner Kendal Castle built Hayes, Frodsham, 1839. Initially traded Liverpool to Glasson Dock. Registered Lancaster 1839, 86 tons. Then registered Beaumaris 1851 on, 85 tons. ON 9297, 77 tons, in MNL to 1864. More history. Voyage, cargo coal, collided with Eleanor about 7 miles SE of St Ann's Head, during severe storm, 25-26 October 1859, and sank. Captain lost, 3 crew saved.

[from Kendal Mercury - Saturday 05 October 1839]:
New Vessel. On Tuesday, the 24th ult., a new Schooner, called the Kendal Castle, was launched at the old-established ship building yard, at Frodsham Bridge, Cheshire. She is upwards of 100 tons burthen, and is built expressly for the Liverpool and Kendal trade, and neither pains nor expense have been spared to make her a first-rate vessel. The proprietors have given the command of her to their experienced commander, Captain John Rawlinson, who has been in their employ upwards of 20 years, and has been a very fortunate man at sea. [Mr Hayes's Yard]

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Friday 14 January 1853]:
We, the undersigned masters of the schooners Lady Brougham, of Whitehaven, and Kendal Castle, of Amlwch (both being laden), shall feel obliged your giving us your opinion of the following case:- On the 6th Inst., while our schooners were lying at the East Quay in this harbour [Yarmouth], wind blowing strong from the S.S.W., and there being another schooner, the Hunter, of this port (with no one on board to take care of her), lying between us, and there being appearance of damage happening to one or the other, in consequence of the way in which the Hunter was lying (she being light),...William Thomas, master of he Kendal Castle.

[from North Devon Journal - Thursday 27 October 1859]:
The late Storm. ... The Eleanor, Capt. Owens, from Cardiff to Liverpool with a cargo of tin and sheet iron, &c, ran ashore at the back of the [Northam] Burrows, off Rock Nose, she had previously come into collision with the Kendall Castle, of Hamlock [sic Amlwch], somewhere between Caldy and Milford; the latter sinking almost immediately. Three of the men on board of her, named Robert Perrie (mate), Richard Hughes, and Robert Jones, fortunately managed to get upon the rigging and saved their lives, but the captain, John Thomas, lost his hold, and was drowned. The men saved from the Kendall Castle, were taken in a very exhausted condition, to the 'Royal George' Inn, and have been treated with great kindness and humanity by Mr. and Mrs. Kelley.


Wooden schooner New Importer, built Frodsham, 1839. Registered Lancaster 1839, 47 tons, later 41 tons. ON 17236, latterly 42 tons, in 1865 registered Dumfries, until 1891. [A schooner, named Importer, ON 1270, built Ulverston 1819, was also registered at Kirkcudbright and then Dumfries]. Voyage Liverpool to River Urr, foundered in a storm, off the Scottish coast, 31 January 1891, all 3 crew lost.

[from Carlisle Journal - Friday 06 February 1891]:
LOSS OF A SCOTCH BOAT AND THREE LIVES. The boats trading between the ports on the Scotch shores of the Solway Firth and Liverpool left the latter port on Friday on the return voyage and encountered the full force at sea of the terrific gale which raged early on Saturday morning. With one exception, the whole of the boats managed to reach their destinations considerably behind time and in a battered condition. Grave fears were entertained on Wednesday for the safety of the New Importer, belonging to Mr. Carswell, Dalbeattie, which ought to have arrived at that port when the other vessels put in an appearance. She was last seen at sea by the captain of the Mary, a vessel belonging to Mr. Charlton, Dumfries, and was then labouring heavily in the storm. Since then portions of the bulwarks of a ship which have been identified as those of the New Importer, were found on the beach between Rockliffe and Castle Point [Urr estuary], and there remains now no doubt but that she foundered with her crew of three hands. All the crew belonged to the little village of Palnackie, between Dalbeattie and Auchencairn. Two of the men were married, and have left widows with six and five children respectively.


Wooden schooner Pearl, built Frodsham 1839. ON 10198, registered Runcorn 1849, 66 tons, then Liverpool, from 1876. Register closed 1896. Latterly owned Hughes, Moelfre. Probably the schooner Pearl of Liverpool, voyage Par to Runcorn, sunk by collision, off the Lizard, May 1890.

[from Lloyd's List - Friday 23 May 1890]:
Par. sailed. Pearl, Stevenson, Westonpoint.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 24 May 1890]:
A LIVERPOOL VESSEL IN COLLISION.- Yesterday morning the steamship Evelyne, of West Hartlepool, landed at Cardiff the master and crew of the schooner Pearl, of Liverpool. While the Evelyne was making for Cardiff she collided with the Pearl, off the Lizard, and, as the latter vessel was found to be sinking rapidly, her crew, six in number, were taken on board the Evelyne. [SS Evelyn, Pearl master: Stevenson]


Wooden schooner Rigby, built Frodsham, 1840. Registered Liverpool 1840, 72 tons, then Lancaster 1852. ON 24151, registered Lancaster, latterly 62 tons, in MNL to 1866, owned Fisher, Barrow. Last recorded voyages in late 1866. Reported lost 1866. Location of build from Schooner Port and from history of Fishers. Voyage Barrow to Balbriggan, leaving 30 August 1866, missing, ship's boat came ashore at Bootle, Cumbria.

[from Ulverston Mirror and Furness Reflector - Saturday 19 January 1861]:
For Sale... The following Shares in the undermentioned well known and substantial Coasting Vessels, namely :-- [Burthen in Tons].
16-64th Shares in the Schooner Rigby 118
16-64th Shares in the Schooner Loftus 120
16-64th Shares in the Schooner Ann and Ellen 100
16-64th Shares in the Brigantine Confidence 125
14-64th Shares in the Brigantine Gleaner 140
8-64th Shares in the Brig Egeria 200
8-64th Shares in the the Three-masted Schooner Duchess of Lancaster 280
8-64th Shares in the Schooner Mary 145
8-64th Shares in the Schooner Mayflower 140
2-64th Shares in the Schooner Thomas Pearson 200
4-64th Shares in the Brigantine Octavia 165
For particulars apply to Mr. THOS. FISHER, Salthouse Villa, near Barrow. Barrow,

[from Barrow Herald and Furness Advertiser - Saturday 01 April 1865]:
Barrow, arrived. 28th, Rigby, Watkinson, [from] Runcorn.

[from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 29 July 1865]:
Morecambe. Sailing. 25 June. Rigby, Barrow.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Friday 20 October 1865]:
Barrow, arr, Oct 18. Rigby, Mayor, from Morecambe.

[from Barrow Herald and Furness Advertiser - Saturday 01 September 1866]:
Rigby, Sumner, ready to leave Liverpool for Balbriggan on the 30th ult. [last report in newspapers, more than one Barrow captain was called Sumner]

[from Barrow Herald and Furness Advertiser - Saturday 22 September 1866]:
FOUND, On the Beach near Bootle, A BOAT with the name "Rigby, of Barrow," upon it. The owner can have the same by applying to James Herbert, Bootle Station, and paying expenses. Bootle, Cumberland, Sept. 20th, 1866.


Wooden schooner Widnes, built Frodsham 1842. Most probably by Hayes. Registered Liverpool 1842 as 86 tons, until 1857, then registered Fleetwood, 58 tons. ON 3134. Reported in newspapers as owned Ulverston. RCUS: Voyage Whitehaven to Liverpool [Ellesmere Port] with iron ore, abandoned and sank, 4 November 1861, near Formby LV, 3 crew saved, built Frodsham 1842.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 12 August 1852]:
The Schooner WIDNES, of Runcorn, Register tonnage 68 tons, built at Frodsham in 1842; she is in thorough repair, and now on her first voyage after being in the graving dock. Price £500. Apply to Mr. Hayes, Runcorn.

[from Lancaster Guardian - Saturday 09 November 1861]:
Gallant Conduct of Four Liverpool Boatmen. Shortly after eight o'clock on Monday morning, the signal of distress was observed flying at Bidston Lighthouse. intimating that the Formby and Crosby lightships had distress signals flying, and that a schooner had sunk in No. 40 per chart, not far from the entrance to the Queen's Channel. The two Liverpool life-boats were at once launched and taken in tow by the steamtugs United Kingdom and Rover. On reaching the Crosby Lightship, they fell in with a small gig boat with the crew of the sunken schooner on board. It appears that the boat had taken shelter at the Crosby Lightship, and at daybreak they had discovered the sunken vessel, with the crew clinging to the rigging. Although the flood tide was running strong at the time and a stiff breeze blowing from the westward, they nevertheless resolved to make an attempt to rescue the poor fellows. For upwards of an hour they struggled hard against tide and wind, until overtaken by the steam-tug Dreadnought, which took them tow out to the vessel, when they succeeded in taking off the crew, consisting of three men, from the schooner Widnes, of Ulverston, from Barrow, bound to Liverpool with a cargo of iron ore. The names of the brave men who risked their lives are Peter Plunkett, John Smith, James Murphy, and William Kelly, whose gallant and successful exertions are worthy of all praise. The captain of the Widnes is named Miller, of Preston.


Wooden sloop Frodsham, built Frodsham by 1842. Registered Liverpool 200/1842, 55 tons. Presumably the vessel advertised for sale in 1854 by Hazlehurst, Frodsham Bridge shipyard. ON 16472, registered Liverpool to 1865, then Caernarvon to 1868, owned Ellis, Port Dinorwic, 48 tons. Appropriation Book quotes lost 7-1868.


Wooden schooner Hannah, built Frodsham by 1843. Registered Liverpool 59/1843, 64 tons, then Runcorn 9/1847, 63 tons. Presumably the vessel advertised for sale in 1854 by Hazlehurst, Frodsham Bridge shipyard. Possibly ON 27012, in MNL, registered Runcorn, to 1864. A very common name - so hard to track down.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 09 January 1857]:
Wrecks within the port of Liverpool. December [1856]. ... Schooner Hannah; on West Hoyle; total wreck. ... [not recorded December 1856 newspapers]


Wooden flat Hero, built Hayes, Frodsham [from Schooner Port] 1844, probably ON 5989, registered Liverpool, 140/1846, 56 tons. By 1865 owned Pennington, Warrington. In MNL to 1871. Appropriation book states lost 5-4-1871. Not found in newspapers.


Wooden schooner Ino, built Hayes, Frodsham, 1846 [MNL, 1872 on, says built Frodsham 1846, though built Runcorn from Schooner Port]. ON 25727, registered Liverpool 1846, 85 tons, in 1865 owned Hayes, Frodsham. So builder Hayes of Frodsham seems most likely. In MNL to 1877, owned Brundrit, Runcorn, 75 tons. Voyage Penmaenmawr to Dublin with stone, wrecked Red Wharf Bay, 18 February 1877. Some newspapers report this wreck as John rather than Ino, but John of Runcorn remains in MNL to 1886, whereas Ino does not feature beyond 1877.

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 23 February 1877]:
LOSS OF LIFE OFF THE WELSH COAST. The schooner Ino, of Runcorn, Captain Abraham, sailed on Sunday night from Beaumaris for Dublin with a cargo of setts, or paving stones, from Penmaenmawr, She encountered the recent gales, and was wrecked in Redwharf Bay, off the Anglesey coast, all hands being lost. A portion of the wreck yesterday drifted under the tableland.

[from Manchester Times - Saturday 24 February 1877]:
On Sunday night the schooner John[sic], of Runcorn, laden with sett stones, from Penmaenmawr, Capt. Abraham, sailed from Beaumaris for Dublin. She was overtaken by Monday night's gale, and became a total wreck in Redwharf Bay, Anglesea. All hands perished. On Thursday a part of her hull and spars drifted ashore near Amlwch.


Wooden schooner Mary Ann, built Frodsham 1851. Registered Liverpool, 1851, 67 tons, ON 17251, registered Liverpool to 1886, latterly 61 tons, owned Ellis, New Brighton, then Hill, Antrim. In MNL to 1886. MNL confirms built Frodsham 1851. Many vessels with this name. One was sunk in 1884.

Possibly a different vessel[from Blackpool Gazette & Herald - Friday 01 August 1884]:
A FLEETWOOD STEAMER IN COLLISION. SINKING OF A SCHOONER. Tidings have been received in Fleetwood from Belfast of a collision between the steamer Thomas Dugdale, of Fleetwood, and the schooner Mary Ann, of Dublin, which resulted in the sinking of the latter vessel [31 July 1884]. It appears that both vessels were nearing Belfast, between the red and blue lights, and both ported their helms about the same time. The result was the bringing about of a dangerous condition of proximity, on seeing which Captain Cook, of the Thomas Dugdale, ordered the engines of the steamer to be reversed, which was immediately done. This proved too late, however, the two vessels colliding in such a way that the schooner ran into the sponsons of the steamer and immediately filled and sank. The crew of the schooner were rescued by the Thomas Dugdale and taken on to Belfast, which place was reached by the steamer by six o'clock, the voyage having been delayed. The schooner sank in 18ft of water, which is only 5ft at low water. Its cargo consisted of some 70 tons of marble which it was conveying from Dublin to Belfast. It was fully insured, but will probably be recoverable with little loss or damage. The steamer sustained no injury.


[from Chester Courant - Wednesday 30 November 1853]:
SALE OF VALUABLE COASTING VESSELS. TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION, BY Mr. HARROP, at the Royal Hotel, Runcorn, on THURSDAY, 5th January, 1854, at half-past two o'clock in the afternoon, subject to conditions then to be produced, in the following order.
Lot 1. The Schooner "Sarah," with small boat and other tackling, of 120 tons burthen.
Lot 2. The Schooner "Hannah," 110 tons burthen.
Lot 3. The Schooner "Waterloo," 105 tons burthen.
Lot 4. The Sloop "Frodsham," 95 tons burthen.
Lot 5. The Sloop "John," 80 tons burthen.
The above Vessels are all first class, well found, in first rate repair, and are now trading between Ireland, Scotland, and other places.
Lot 6. A New Schooner, now on the Stocks at Frodsham Bridge Dock Yard.
For further particulars and to view the Vessels, apply to Mr. Hazlehurst, Ship Builder, Frodsham Bridge,


Wooden schooner Mary Jane, built Frodsham, 1854, 56 tons. ON 1339 Liverpool 1854, 56 tons; Dublin 1871-86, 47 tons, owned Hamilton, Wicklow, in MNL to 1888. Voyage Wicklow to Garston with timber, in fog, 14 April 1888, ashore near Rhoscolyn, also described as on a large rock, near South Stack. Crew saved.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 08 November 1855]: For SALE. The Schooner MARY JANE; 56 tons register; built at Frodsham, and launched in 1854; carries 90 tons deadweight; takes the ground under cargo; round sterned and admirably suited for the coasting trade, lying in George's Dock.......

[from Holyhead Mail and Anglesey Herald - Thursday 19 April 1888]:
Vessel Ashore. During the dense fog that prevailed here on Saturday morning [14 April], the schooner Mary Jane of Dublin (Captain Foulkes) laden with timber from Wicklow to Garston found itself, at five o'clock, near the South Stack Lighthouse. They were unable to make out their exact position and, being in imminent peril, immediately took to the boat. At a quarter to nine o'clock they succeeded in reaching Holyhead. The vessel is on her beam ends on a large rock and is likely to become a total wreck. [Lloyds List - near Rhoscolyn, later breaking up]


Wooden schooner Emily Constance, built Frodsham 1856, 65tons. ON 16898, registered Liverpool 1856, 65 tons, register closed 1898. Latterly owned Buckley, 65 tons. Last reported voyages trading along Irish coast, to 1897.

[from Irish Independent - Saturday 19 January 1895]:
Dublin Shipping: Departures: schooner Emily Constance, Dundalk, maize.

[from Lloyd's List - Wednesday 17 November 1897]:
Drogheda. sailed: Emily Constance, Costello, Dublin.


Wooden schooner Unknown, built Frodsham 1857. Possibly Emily Constance, with advertised date of build 1 year out.

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 01 March 1859]:
On Sale. one third share of a coasting schooner, drawing a light draught of water, built at Frodsham, in 1857, register tonnage 65, will carry 125 tons, ...


Wooden schooner Mary Bolland, built Frodsham, 1858. ON 27654, registered Liverpool, 1859, 99 tons. Voyage Shields to Plymouth with coal, ashore on Blakeney Beach and 2 men lost, 17 November 1860, RCUS states crew 5, no report of losses, and confirms built 1858 at Frodsham.

[from Norfolk Chronicle - Saturday 24 November 1860]:
BLAKENEY. Shipwreck. On the 17th inst., at eight p.m., whilst blowing a gale from the N.E., the schooner Mary Bolland, Jones, master, of Liverpool, from Newcastle for Plymouth, with coals, came ashore on Blakeney beach. The master and one seaman, named James Holland, were drowned. The vessel is a complete wreck.


Wooden ketch Vixen, built Frodsham, 1858, 54 tons. ON 21072, registered Liverpool 1854, then Caernarfon 1864-1889, latterly owned Edwards, Caernarfon.

[from Lloyd's List - Friday 19 October 1883]:
VIXEN. Caernarvon. Oct 18. 11 3 am, The ketch Vixen, of Caernanvon, at anchor in the Menai Straits, dragged her last anchor night during a north-west gale, and fouled the schooner Penelope, at anchor off Port Dinorwic. The Vixen got clear, with loss of mizenmast; the master reports that no damage was done to the Penelope.

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 20 September 1886]:
Vixen, of Carnarvon, for Dundalk (dates), has put into Kingstown with starboard channel plates carried away, and leaking at the rate 1.5 inches per hour. [Master Hughes, ketch]
[Repaired, since Vixen, Hughes, is reported as trading until August 1887, arriving Caernavon from Conway.]

Edward, built Frodsham 1858, 64 tons, registered Liverpool, 1858, 64 tons, ON 25069, in MNL to 1924, latterly owned Hayes, Liverpool. Sank in Harrington Dock, Liverpool, 19 July 1920, but refloated and offered for sale.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Tuesday 20 July 1920]:
EDWARD (flat). The Mersey Docks and Harbour Board advise that the flat Edward, owner Richard H. Hayes, with cargo on board has sunk in the Harrington Dock. (Liverpool July 19.)
[Edward was, however, reported as refloated on 29 July].

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Thursday 29 July 1920]:
BY ORDER OF THE MERSEY DOCKS & HARBOUR BOARD, .. THE WOOD FLAT EDWARD, as she may then lie in a damaged condition in Wallasey Dock, Birkenhead, together with her cargo on board, stated to be about 100 tons coal. Said vessel appears to be 64 tons register, and to have been built in 1858. Approximate dimensions: - 66ft. x 16ft, x 7ft. 6in. ....

Wooden flat Alice & Mary, built Frodsham 1859, ON 27940, registered Liverpool 230/1859, 54 tons. Owned Samuel Smith, Frodsham Bridge (probably builder). For sale 1892. In MNL to 1895.

[from Nantwich Guardian - Saturday 26 March 1892]:
Mr L. HOLMES has received instructions from Mr. W. Hoxworth to SELL BY AUCTION, where she now lies in the canal at Widnes, near the lock, the well-known MAST FLAT, Alice and Mary, length 67 feet, mata[sic] breadth 16 feet 9-10ths, depth of hold for tonnage 6 ft 55-10ths[sic], dead weight 110 tons, official number 27,940; she is well found with ropes, chains, pulleys, anchors, and all necessary sails and gearing, nearly new. ...



Wooden flat Bream, built Fidler's Ferry 1859. Registered Liverpool 35/1895, 73 tons, ON 105293, owned Rea, Liverpool. Register closed 1934.

Back to top.



Sankey built sea-going sailing vessels (at Sankey Bridges, up the Sankey Navigation from the Mersey, built by John Clare). The flats William, Sarah, Heart of Oak, Hero, Margaret, Bettys, Elizabeth, True Briton, Ann, Hugh were all registered on 30 August 1848 with consecutive official numbers:

Wooden schoner Wellington, built Sankey Bridges 1814, ON 4110, registered Caernarfon 30/1844, 49 tons, register closed 1897, owned Hughes, Port Dinorwic, 47 tons. Sank in Horse Channel (off Hoyake) 30 June 1897.

[from Lloyd's List - Wednesday 30 June 1897]:
Wellington. Hoylake, June 30, 11 35 a.m. The schooner previously reported sank in Horse Channel, 75 per chart, is the Wellington, of Carnarvon.

Wooden schooner William Pitt, built Sankey Bridges, 1819, 78 tons, [from RCUS]. Registered Dublin 27/1836, 78 tons. Voyage Whitehaven to Dublin with coal, driven ashore at Clogher Head, 11 November 1852, crew of 4 saved.

[from Freeman's Journal - Saturday 13 November 1852]:
Extract from a private letter: Clogher Head, Drogheda, 11th Nov., 1852.
At 9 30, AM., the schooner William Pitt, of Dublin, from Whitehaven to Dublin, coal laden, John French, master, running in for this place, when off the harbour, struck on a reef of rocks to the northward, and immediately went down, stern foremost, the crew holding on to the only part of the vessel above water, the sea running tremendous at the time. Captain Bernard, of the coast guard, whose gallant conduct is deserving of all praise, was in attendance with his men to render all the assistance in his power, and fired several rockets from Dennitt's life rocket apparatus, but all to no purpose. The hands were in imminent danger of being washed off the small space they had to cling to, when Captain Bernatrd and three of his men got into a boat, and succeeded in saving the captain and crew, four in number; the wind blowing a gale from the S.S.E. and a tremendous sea running in. This is the second crew saved by Captain Bernard during the last fortnight, having rescued the master and crew of the brig Fidelity on the morning of the 26th ult., also, from a watery grave.

Wooden flat John Clare, built Sankey Bridges 1822. Registered Liverpool 226/1844, 56 tons. ON 2369, in MNL to 1921, owned Liverpool Lighterage Co., 57 tons. John Clare was the name of the shipxyard owner.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Tuesday 05 December 1893]:
Liverpool. Vessels sailed coastwise. John Clare, 56, Kaye, Thomas Bros, Connah's Quay.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Wednesday 06 December 1893]:
DOCK OFFENCES. .... Captain Kaye, of the flat John Clare, was fined 5s and costs, and Edward Padon, owner and master of the flat Lethe, was fined 20s and costs, for having no shipkeeper on board in dock




Wooden flat Hugh, built Sankey Bridges 1828, registered Liverpool 198/1848, 47 tons, ON 14543, latterly owned Hill, St Helen's, 47 tons. In MNL to 1886. [There is another flat Hugh, of Liverpool, ON 70931, 58 tons, built Northwich 1838, in MNL to 1900]

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 01 November 1875]:
Casualties. The flat Hugh has sunk off Eastham.

Wooden flat Wellington, built Sankey Bridges 1826, registered Liverpool 1856, 33 tons, ON 15040, latterly owned Hill, St Helen's, 47 tons. In MNL to 1886.

Wooden schooner Clarence, built Clare, Sankey Bridge, 1829. 82grt, 51 nrt. ON 10632. Registered Beaumaris from 1850. Voyage Caernarfon to Silloth with slates, wrecked off Silloth on 11th June 1897, crew saved.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 22 January 1829]:
For SALE by PRIVATE CONTRACT, A New SCHOONER, Now ready for sea, only launched a few months back and laying in the Graving Dock, Sankey Bridges, near Warrington; she has a round stern, and is built of the very best materials, her planks fastened at the butts with copper bolts, her cordage and sails of the best quality, and complete in every respect. Length of keel 61 feet 10 inches; On deck 66.5ft; Breadth 17 ft 4.5in; Depth in the hold 7ft 1in. For further particulars, the Owner, William Clare, Sankey Bridges, or at his Office, No. 8, Redcross-street, Liverpool.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 24 March 1831]:
ON SALE, Schooner LYON, Williams, 100 tons. Sloop MARY, Hughes, burthen 85 tons. Sloop HOPEWELL, Hope; 95 tons. New Schooner CLARENCE, Haydock, 100 tons. Together with their boats and all tackle now on board. They are particularly strong, having been built under the owners personal inspection, and are now trading from Liverpool to Ireland, Wales, &c,. Apply to the owner, Wm. Clare, Sankey Bridge, near Warrington, or to HUGH CLARE, 7, Redcross-street.

[from Carlisle Patriot - Friday 18 June 1897]:
THE WRECK AT SILLOTH. As we stated in our later edition of last week, the schooner Clarence, of Beaumaris, arrived off the Lea Scaur Lighthouse, Silloth, about six o'clock on Friday morning, and having struck a sandbank, gradually foundered. The crew consisted of three persons, two of whom took to the boat, and the boat's painter breaking, they were unable to reach the vessel again. The captain remained on the vessel, and when it foundered was compelled to take to the masthead. Here the sea broke over him, and had he not been rescued by a boat manned by two of the crew of the brigantine Scotsman, of Londonderry, now laying in the dock, and the harbour master (Captain Wood), he would soon have perished, the position being most dangerous, The vessel lies sunk in about six fathoms of water in mid-channel, half a mile or so west of Silloth. The schooner was bound for Silloth with a cargo of slates from Carnarvon.


Wooden flat True Briton, built Sankey Bridges 1830, registered Liverpool 1848, 44 tons. ON 14541, in MNL to 1888, 45 tons, owned Liverpool & St Helens Lighterage.

[from Widnes Examiner - Saturday 24 June 1882]:
FLAT SUNK NEAR WESTON POINT. - At midnight on Saturday, the flat "True Briton," belonging to Messrs. Hill and Grundy, of Sankey Bridges, collided with the steam tug Gladiator, whilst sailing up the Mersey near Weston Point. Being laden with sand, the flat quickly sunk after being struck, but the men were taken on board a steamer. On Wednesday the flat was raised by chains, and was towed up the river to Sankey Bridges to be repaired. The bow had been stove in.


Wooden flat Ann, built Sankey Bridges 1832, registered Liverpool 1854, 50 tons. ON 1993, in MNL to 1887, owned Litton, Warrington, 50 tons.


Wooden flat Hero, built Sankey Bridges 1832, registered Liverpool 1848, 44 tons. ON 14537, in MNL to 1886, 44 tons, owned John Clare, Sankey Bridges [shipbuilder], newspaper describes as 2 masted. Voyage in Mersey, 9 December 1886, abandoned near Stanlow Rock, crew of 4 saved.

[from Warrington Examiner - Saturday 11 December 1886]:
Some thrilling scenes were witnessed at Ellesmere Port, Cheshire. During the height of the gale on Thursday, the two-mast flat Hero, belonging to Messrs. Hill and Grundy, St. Helens, was seen to be in great distress. The crew, four in number, got into a small boat, which was at once driven by wind and tide on to Stanlow Rocks, where they were assisted to land in a pitiable state. They were drenched to the skin and starved with cold. They were taken to Ellesmere Port, where they were most hospitably entertained.

Probably a different vessel - not in MNL.[from Cheshire Observer - Saturday 28 May 1887]:
Two Men Drowned near Hooton: Exciting Scene. - At an inquest held by Mr H. Churton, coroner, at the Waterloo Hotel, Ellesmere Port, on Monday, the details were heard of the disastrous passsge of a flat, the drowning of two of the crew, and the gallant rescue of the master and one man. From the evidence it appears that the flat "Hero", of Widnes, sand-laden and bound for Widnes, left Eastham on Friday morning, having on board besides the master (Capt. Atherton) two men, Henry Brawley and John Brawley, and a boy 14 years old, Joseph Atherton, the master's son. The gale was blowing with tremendous force when the voyage began. About half an hour after starting, the vessel ran on a sand bank, where she remained fully an hour, during which the seas made a clean breach over her. Getting afloat again the crew made towards Hooton, and when within 300 yards or 400 yards of the ahore the flat grounded and remained in a perilous position for some time. The heavy sea that swept clean over the vessel washed one of the hands (Henry Brawley) and the boy overboard. The master and the remaining man being powerless to render assistance, both of the poor fellows struggling in the water were drowned. The master and John Atherton [sic, Brawley], benumbed and exhausted, clung to the vessel for a considerable time till observed by the crew of a passing schooner. The master of the schooner, with commendable promptitude and pluck, sent off a boat to the rescue, and after no small difficulty, the men, who at the time were believed to be dead, were conveyed from the flat to the schooner, where they were treated with the utmost skill, and so successfully that consciousness was eventually restored. John Brawley was so far recovered to tell the story of the disaater at the inquest, and he spoke in terms of the warmest gratitude tor the humane treatment received on board the schooner [Wild Hunter of Youghal, master Cameron]. A verdict of "Accidental death" was returned. ... [another report has names: Captain Harrison, his son, and crew Henry and John Brolley; also states flat was loading sand from a sandbank near Garston, initially]


Wooden flat Heart of Oak, built Sankey Bridges 1835, registered Liverpool 1848, 41 tons. ON 14536, in MNL to 1886, 42 tons, owned Jas Hill, St Helens.


Wooden flat Elizabeth, built Sankey Bridges 1836, registered Liverpool 1848, 51 tons. ON 14540, in MNL to 1886, owned John Clare (shipbuilder) to 1873, then Hebden, Liverpool, 51 tons. Many flats named Elizabeth, so hard to track.

[from Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 28 September 1875]:
SEVERAL FLATS SUNK. A flat sunk during the height of the storm off Tranmere Slip, but no lives are reported lost. About the same time the flat Elizabeth, belonging to ths Sankey Brook Colliery Company, lying in the river off the Albert Pierhead, was swamped. The master and his two sons, who were on board, escaped in a small boat, and were taken from the river at the Prince's Landing-stage, and assisted in an exhausted state to the receiving-house, whence they afterwards went home.

[rom Manchester Courier - Wednesday 09 June 1886]:
EXCITING MIDNIGHT INCIDENT IN THE MERSEY. A thrilling incident has again to be chronicled respecting Joseph Rogers, an old sailor, who many years ago gained some celebrity through having swam ashore with a lifeline from the Royal Charter, which was wrecked in Moelfra Bay, and for which he received a medal. Rogers is captain of the flat Elizabeth, belonging to Messrs. Laughlan and Co., of Water-street, and at half-past two o'clock yesterday morning, while asleep in the cabin of the flat, which was lying off the Collingwood Dock, laden with 100 tons of coal, he was suddenly aroused from his slumber by the inrush of water, and on looking round he saw that his small apartment was nearly full of water. After considerable difficulty he forced up the hatch and got on deck, but almost directly afterwards the barge disappeared under the water with its sole occupant. Rogers, who was only scantily clothed, disengaged himself from the flat and struck out, at the same time shouting for assistance. His cries at such an early hour of the morning attracted the attention of a dock gateman named George Pine, also Police-constables 267 and 1,015, and a sailor on board the steamer Bessbrook, belonging to the Dundalk and Newry Steamship Company, and on approaching the edge of the dock wall, the figure of a man was seen in the water. A life buoy was quickly thrown to Rogers from steamer Bessbrook, which he firmly grasped, and a few minutes afterwards he was hauled on board the vessel, little the worse for his unexpected immersion. The captain was then taken to the receiving house at the dock, where was provided with clothing and properly looked after. Rogers, who is over 50 years of age, is a native of Malta.


Wooden flat William, built Sankey Bridges 1837, registered Liverpool 1848, 45 tons. ON 14533, Register closed 1899, owned Liverpool Lighterage Co., 45 tons. A common name so hard to track.


Wooden flat Bettys, built Sankey Bridges 1840, registered Liverpool 1848, 43 tons. ON 14539, in MNL to 1886, 43 tons, owned Jas Hill, St Helens.


Wooden flat Martha, built Sankey Bridges, 1841 registered Liverpool 1856, 37 tons. ON 15039, owned Jas Hill, St Helens. In MNL to 1886.


Wooden flat Ann, built Sankey Bridges, 1841? [date of build 1828-1843 based on ON]. Registered Liverpool 1848, 43 tons. ON 14542, in MNL to 1870, owned Pennington, Warrington., 44 tons. Reported lost 1/1870. A common name so hard to track.


Wooden flat Sarah, built Sankey Bridges 1842, registered Liverpool 1848, 45 tons. ON 14533,. Register closed 1899, owned Liverpool Lighterage Co., 45 tons. A common name so hard to track.


Wooden flat Margaret, built Sankey Bridges 1843, registered Liverpool 1848, 43 tons. ON 14538, owned John Clare (shipbuilder). Reported lost 30-7-1870. A common name so hard to track.


Wooden flat Britannia, built Sankey Bridges 1846, registered Liverpool 1848, 43 tons. ON 24349, owned John Clare (shipbuilder). In MNL to 1930.


Wooden sloop Gilbert Greenall, built Sankey Bridges, 1860. ON 44621, registered Liverpool, 52/1862, 59 tons. Registered Caernarfon 1899-1923, as a ketch, 45 tons, when register closed. [Gilbert Greenall was MP for Warrington]

[from Manchester Evening News - Wednesday 12 February 1873]:
A Captain Drowned. On Monday night, as John Griffiths, master of the schooner Gilbert Greenall, now lying in the river Foryd, was returning to his vessel, his foot slipped, and he fell in the river- Although his body was recovered shortly after immersion, life was extinct.

[from Lloyd's List - Friday 26 February 1897]:
GILBERT GREENALL. Bangor, Feb. 25, 6 30 p.m. Schooner Gilbert Greenall, of Liverpool, Port Dinorwic for Fleetwood, with cargo slates, ashore at Lleiniog, Menai Straits. [later got off]

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Friday 06 March 1903]:
Dover. Mar. 3. .. struck ketch Gilbert Greenall of Caernarvon, London for Dover, then in outer harbour, causing damage to rudder head,....


Sailing vessels built at St Helens. The Sankey Navigation (St Helens Canal) was opened in 1757, linking St Helens to the Mersey. Several vessels built at St Helens were later used for sea-going, so registered as such.

Wooden flat Elizabeth, built St Helens 1826, ON 13773, 48 tons, registered Liverpool. Advert for sale 1858.

Wooden sloop Thomas, built St Helens 1825, 57 tons. Registered Liverpool 1850, 66 tons, ON 16489. Registered Runcorn 1857, Liverpool 1858-67, then Glasgow, register closed 1933. By 1933 owned Rea, Liverpool, 52 tons.

Possibly this vessel. [from Liverpool Mail - Tuesday 14 April 1840]:
Shares for sale... Lot 5. The river flat Thomas, burthen 80 tons, Randle Beswick, master. Lot 6. The river flat Union, burthen 70 tons, William Wilkinson, master. The last mentioned flats are in very good repair, and are employed in navigation between St Helens and Liverpool.

Wooden flat Black Diamond, built St. Helens, 1829, registered Carlisle 2/1859. ON 27138. 45 tons, sail. St Helens was connected to the Mersey by the Sankey Navigation (St Helens Canal) from 1757. Several vessels built there voyaged beyond the canal. The flat seems to have voyaged within the Solway Firth mainly after arriving in Port Carlisle in 1859.
Voyage Maryport to Gatehouse-of-Fleet, with coal, driven ashore at Kirkdale Burn [N side of Wigtown Bay], 17 September 1880, master (and owner) Daniel Messenger, and crew [of 1] both saved. See Canmore records. Also More history [described as steam screw - but no evidence of this after 1859].

[from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 23 April 1859]:
BLACK DIAMOND ARRIVED. A Prime Cargo of Peruvian Guano, direct from Gibbs, Bright, & Co. Also on sale, Blood Manures and Dissolved Bones, along with a Cargo of South African, well approved of, and at a cheap rate. Also a few Tons of Seed Potatoes left, free from disease. Apply to JOHN & W. MAXWELL, April 14, 1859. Carlisle.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Wednesday 29 September 1880]:
Black Diamond, from Maryport for Kircudbright, with coal, totally wrecked near Kirkdale Burn, on the 17th inst.


Wooden schooner Margaret, built St Helens 1834. Registered Liverpool 1849, 67 tons, ON 9363, registered Bideford 1896-1903, 63 tons, owned Lamey, Appledore.


Wooden schooner William Edward (also William Edwards), built St Helens 1834. Registered Liverpool 74/1838, 65 tons. ON 15157. Register closed 1908. Owned Bangor (N Wales), then Kilkeel, 51 tons. More history. Damaged by collision with a barque in the Crosby Channel, 11 June 1908, then sold for breaking.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Saturday 27 June 1908]:
MERSEY SALVAGE CLAIM. ABANDONED SCHOONER RESCUED. At the Liverpool County Court, (Admiralty Jurisdiction) His Honour Judge Thames yesterdsy heard a claim by the owners, master and crew of the Liverpool steam tug Knight Templar against the owner of the schooner William Edward for salvage.
Mr. Miller, of Messrs. Miller, Son, and Taylor, for the plaintiffs, stated that at 7 pm. on 11th June, the Knight Templar was coming out of the Sandon Dock, Liverpool, when the master heard a gun at New Brighton, and interpreted it as a signal for a lifeboat. He steamed across the river and found the steam lifeboat going out; he took his tug down the Crosby channel and there found the schooner William Edward inside No. 6 and 7 black buoys practically on the edge of the bank and with one anchor down. A barque was anchored to the windward. There was a strong north-west beezee and a heavy swell on the water. Tha schooner was dismasted. Her mainmast, fore topmast, and port bulwarks, and practically all her rigging were gone. There was no one on board. The tug master discovered that the schooner's crew went on board the barque with which she had been in collision. The tug hailed the master of the schooner, who said he did not think it safe to go on board his vessel as she had three or four feet of water in her. It was suggested that he had better go on by board by the lifeboat and let the tug tow him, and eventually the lifeboat transferred the schooner's men back to their own vessel, and the tug passed a hawser on board, but the schooner refused the rope, and the captain said he would abandon her as he did not think it was safe. The tug master expressed the view that, in that case the schooner would be needlessly lost, as if she were not removed, she would knock her bottom out bumping on the ground. Eventually the captain of the schooner took the rope and hove up his anchor. The schooner was then towed into still water at New Brighton, when it was found that she was all right and did not leak. She was subsequently taken to the Carrier's Dock at Liverpool, arriving there about midnight. ....The owners of the vessel [schooner] had decided to abandon the vessel and not contest the claim. .... Eventually His Honour awarded the plaintiffs salvage of £35 and costs.

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Sea-going sailing vessels built on the river Weaver - at Northwich, etc. Many flats and vessels for inland waters were also built there.


Back to top.

Advert for Flats built at Northwich and Winsford, with builder named:

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 19 May 1831]:
ON SALE, The new Flat MARINER; Burthen per register 87 tons, particularly strong, of the best materials and workmanship, measures 67 feet aloft, 17 feet 5 inches beam, 7 feet 4 inches deep in the hold, round stern, launched 24th March last, from Mr. Cross's Dock-yard, Winsford, Cheshire, to whom please apply, and to Mr. James Hunt, sailmaker, Salthouse Dock, Liverpool, .. [ON 12058, Sr, see here]

[from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 05 June 1835]:
SALE OF VALUABLE SALT WORKS AND FLATS. ...
Lot 1. All those valuable SALT WORKS, situate in Winnington, near Northwich, in the County of Chester, held under a Lease heretofore granted to Sir John Thomas Stanley, Bart., whereof ten years remain unexpired on the 24th of June now instant. The above Works are most conveniently situate on the Banks of the River Weaver, and are capable of producing 7000 tons of Salt annually, and may be enlarged to a much greater extent without any increase of Rent beyond what is now payable,
Lot 2. The FLAT or VESSEL, called the THORN [sic, THOM is another newspaper], Geo. Stelfox, Master: launched from the Building-yard of Messrs. Geo. Stringer and Co., Northwich, 27th January, 1827. Burthen 80 tons, at a 6 ft. 1 in. draught of water. [Thorn ON 13554 ]
Lot 3, The FLAT ot VESSEL, called the COMMERCE, Thos. Starkey. Master; launched from the Building-yard of Mr. Wm. Cross, Winsford, 21st November, 1829. Burthen 85 tons, at a 6 ft. 3 in. draught of water. [ON 11748]
Lot 4. The FLAT or VESSEL, called the MARINER, James Bostock, Master; launched. from the Building-yard of Mr. Jas. Gibson, Northwich, 29th September, 1832. Burthen 85 tons, at a 6 ft. 3 in. draught of water. [ON 78847 F]
Lot 5. The FLAT or VESSEL, called the EMILY, Jos. Verdin, Master; launched from the Building-yard of Mr. George Okell, Northwich, 25th May, 1833. Burthen 95 tons, at a 6 ft. 6 in. draught of water. [not found MNL]
The above Vessels are in the hands of the first owner and were remarkably stout built under his immediate inspection, of the best materials and workmanship, well found, and in excellent order. They are now navigating the rivers Weaver and Mersey, are equal to any Vessels of their description on either river, and may be inspected in Liverpool, the day previous to the Sale, on application to the Auctioneer. ...

[from Liverpool Albion - Monday 24 May 1852]:
VALUABLE FLATS, OR VESSELS. Mr. NEWTON begs to announce, that he is instructed by the Executrix of the late William Gregory, Esq., to SELL by AUCTION, on THURSDAY, the 3d day of June next, at one o'clock in the afternoon precisely, at the Clarendon-rooms, South John-street, Liverpool, subject to conditions to be then and there produced.
Lot 1. All that Round-sterned FLAT, or VESSEL, called the CAPTAIN, launched 30th May, 1846, together with her small BOAT and TACKLE; THOMAS Master. [not found MNL]
Lot 2. All that Round-sterned FLAT, or VESSEL, called the REEFER, launched 25th September, 1841, together with her small BOAT and TACKLE; WILLIAM HOLFORD, Master. [ON 6008]
The above Flats, Vessels, were all built by that eminent Builder, Mr. James Gibson, of Northwich, and at a slight expense might be converted into Coasting Sloops or Schooners; are in excellent condition, well found, and capable of carrying 120 tons each. They are now navigating the Rivers Weaver and Mersey, and will be lying Four Days prior to the Sale in the Birkenhead Dock., ...


Wooden sloop Gamon, built Gibson, Witton (near Northwich) 1824. Registered Carlisle 22/1836, 43 tons, ON 16210. Listed Cumbrian Shipping Registers as 57 tons, broken up 1862. More history.

[from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 18 April 1857]:
Port Carlisle. Sailed April 9. Gamon, Beck, Annan. [voyages not found after this date]


Wooden sloop Augusta, built Witton (near Northwich) 1824. ON 24150, registered Liverpool 1852, 45 tons, then Chester 1863-79, 35 tons, built Witton, Cheshire, 1824, sloop. Latterly owned Lomax, Liverpool. In MNL to 1879. More history.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Tuesday 27 August 1872]:
Prince's Dock: Augusta, 36, Hewitt, Lomax, Chester. [similar reports to 23 December 1877 when arrived Liverpool from Chester]


Wooden schooner Hannah & Joseph, built Northwich 1828, ON 8848, registered Liverpool, 60 tons, as a schooner, rebuilt 1880, by 1890 described as a flat, 57 tons. In MNL to 1892. More history. Voyage Liverpool to Beaumaris with coal. Foundered 17 January 1892, crew of 2 picked up from small boat 4 miles SSW of NW lightship by Hoylake fishing boat Princess.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 30 July 1829]:
Account of the Mortgagees. On Thursday next, the 6th inst. at one o'clock, at Jones, Mann & Foster's office, Dale-street, The Schooner HANNAH and JOSEPH, 76 tons register, built at Northwich last year; a most superior vessel, and well found in stores. For further particulars apply to the Master, on board, in George's Dock,...

[from Wigan Observer and District Advertiser - Friday 27 May 1870]:
LIQUIDATION SALE, LAFFAK AND GARSWOOD COLLIERIES, NEAR ST. HELBNS, ...
The schooner HANNAH and JOSEPH, of Runcorn, registered 51 tons, Dimensions: length 62.3 feet, breadth 15 feet, depth of hold 6.8 feet; carries 95 tons dead weight, in capital condition.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Saturday 23 January 1892]:
Sailed from Widnes. Hannah & Joseph, 53, Williams, Beaumaris.


Wooden sloop Chester, built Northwich 1830, ON 16496, registered Chester, 4/1852, 46 tons, then Beaumaris 1881-89, 46 tons, latterly owned Roberts, Conwy. Voyage Caernarfon to Morecambe with slates, driven aground while moored and wrecked, 20 March 1889, crew of 3 saved.

[from Liverpool Echo - Thursday 21 March 1889]:
WRECK AT MORECAMRE, EXCITING RESCUE. A terrific north-easterly gale raged last night shortly after eleven. The sloop Chester, of Conway, with a cargo of slates from Carnarvon, on floating with the tide while moored in Morecambe Harbour, commenced striking heavily against the bottom, eventually bursting the vessel from stem to stern, and stripping off the deck. The crew of three took to the rigging, terrific seas breaking over the vessel, and reaching the cross trees. Although within a few yards of the jetties, it was impossible for a boat to reach them. Shortly before three this morning, the crew cried out that they could not hold much longer, being exhausted by cold and exposure. A boat was then drawn across the harbour by the officials means of ropes attached to each jetty,and the crew being lowered into it were pulled to the side, and hauled on the pier with ropes. The vessel was uninsured, and is a total wreck. The cargo was insured.


Wooden lightship North Star, built Castle, Northwich, 1835. ON 24090, registered Liverpool 1835, 93 tons. Owned by Liverpool Docks to 1872. Registered Liverpool to 1881. Ashore near Southerness, and sold as a wreck to James Bell of Dalbeattie. Registered Dumfries 1881, only in MNL from 1886, as a schooner, 70 tons. Register closed 1904.

[from Galloway News and Kirkcudbrightshire Advertiser - Friday 03 December 1880]:
Vessel Ashore. On Sunday night the schooner, North Star, of Liverpool, 67 tons register, from Douglas to Whitehaven in ballast, stranded on the banks opposite Mersehead farm, about four miles west of Southerness, and owing to the stormy weather there is not much likelihood of her being got off at present, as she is lying in a bad position. The vessel is in a leaky state, and the crew have removed their clothing and effects and have left her at present, considering it unsafe to remain on board.

[from Galloway News and Kirkcudbrightshire Advertiser - Friday 24 December 1880]:
SALE OF WRECK. The sale of the wreck of the schooner, North Star, took place on Friday last on the Barnhourie sandbank, parish of Colvend, and was purchased by Mr Bell, timber merchant, Dalbeattie. The proceeds of the sale was £17. Capt. Wilson, Orchardton, was agent, and Mr Lightbody officiated as auctioneer. [Vessel not in MNL 1882-5, but then reappears 1886, so presumably rebuilt, or not used as a sea-going vessel during this gap]

[from Maryport Advertiser - Friday 25 March 1887]:
Maryport. Trade. Vessels sailing with coal, ... the North Star, for Douglas, ...


Wooden flat Caldwell, built Witton, Northwich, 1830. Registered Liverpool 70/1832, 77 tons, then Runcorn 5/1848, 60 tons, then Liverpool 1852, 60 tons. ON 16463, in MNL to 1897, latterly owned Perry, Liverpool, 51 tons. [Note another flat of this name was built at Northwich in 1846, ON 44317, register closed 1928]. Voyage Nevin to Runcorn with granite, 3 February 1897, wrecked at Abermenai, crew saved.

[from Wrexham Guardian and Denbighshire and Flintshire Advertiser - Saturday 18 June 1870]:
Lifeboat Services. The following letter has been addressed to Graham H. Hills, Esq., RN. Marine Surveyor, Liverpool, "Point of Air Lifeboat, Gronant, Rhyl, June 11th. Dear Sir, At 4.30 am. we perceived signals at the Telegraph directing the lifeboat to a vessel in distress on the West Hoyle Bank, near 135 per chart, which was immediately sent off, and found her to be the flat Caldwell, of Liverpool, William Davison, master, bound with square-sets stone from Llanhaiarn to Runcorn, in great distress, with the sea breaking over her, and the crew up to their waists in water on the deck. They had attempted twice to launch their own small boat, but each time it capsized. The lifeboatmen assisted pumping and getting her off the bank, and also accompanied her to a safe anchorage at Wild Roads, and returned to their station at 11 a.m. I am, dear sir, yours truly, John Dawson."

[from Lloyd's List - Wednesday 03 February 1897]:
Carnarvon, Feb. 3, 11 13 a.m. Flat Caldwell, granite setts, Nevin for Runcorn, ashore outside Carnarvon entrance; probably break up.

[from Lloyd's List - Friday 05 February 1897]:
Carnarvon, Feb. 3. The smack Caldwell, Hindley, from Nevin for Runcorn, with paving stones, stranded near Abermenai last evening, and fills with the tide; crew saved. Receiver of Wreck.


Wooden flat Doddington, built William Okell, Northwich, 1830, ON 19208, registered Carlisle 1839, owned Carlisle Steam Navigation Co. By 1868 registered Dumfries, owned Johnstone, Dumfries, 53 tons. On 5 March 1869, the schooner was wrecked on the St. Nicholas Rock, on the coast of Ayrshire. Her crew were rescued by the Ayr Lifeboat. Doddington was on a voyage from Glasgow, to Wigtown. More detail of wreck.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Tuesday 28 April 1868]:
Kings [Dock]. Doddington, 53, Johnston, Miners & Co., Dumfries.

[from Carlisle Patriot - Friday 12 June 1868]:
Silloth. Sailed. June 5. Doddington, Johnston, Annan.

[from Commercial Daily List (London) - Monday 08 March 1869]:
Ayr, March 5. The Doddington (schr.), of Dumfries, from Glasgow to Wigtown, with flour, was totally wrecked on the Nicholas rock this morning; crew saved.[by lifeboat]


Wooden schooner James Jackson, built Northwich 1835 [or earlier]. Not found MNL or newspapers. Possibly bought by Liverpool Docks for use as a Lightship - see North Star above.

[from Liverpool Albion - Monday 27 July 1835]:
Sale.... A VALUABLE SCHOONER, called the JAMES JACKSON, lying in the Duke's Dock: She, was built at Northwich, under the superintendence of Mr. Gibson, of that place; is extremely well timbered, copper-fastened, and capable of carrying 130 tons. For particulars apply to JAMES JACKSON, at Messrs. Hudson, Williams, and Co.'s, Norfolk-street, Liverpool.


Wooden schooner/ketch Victoria, built Witton, Northwich, 1837, ON10849; registered Bridgewater 7/1848, 62 tons, schooner. In MNL to 1894, 56 tons, ketch, owned Hillman, Gloucester. Voyage Waterford to Newport, foundered off St Ann's Head, 7 July 1889, crew saved.

[from Northern Whig - Tuesday 09 July 1889]:
Wrecks and Casualties. ... The Victoria, of Bridgewater, foundered yesterday about seven miles west of Saint Ann's Head. Crew saved.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Tuesday 09 July 1889]:
Victoria of Bridgewater, foundered yesterday at 1 pm, 7 miles west of here. Crew saved in own boat. St Ann's Head July 8.

[from Cork Constitution - Tuesday 09 July 1889]:
The Victoria, ketch, Waterford for Newport, sprung a leak and foundered off Grassholm Island yesterday; crew saved.


Wooden flat Queen, built Northwich, 1839 [from RCUS], registered Liverpool, 124/1847, 54 tons. ON 25052. Voyage Mersey to Holyhead with coal, sank by collision with a steamer outside the Bell Buoy (off Liverpool), crew of 3 saved, 31 December 1860. Owned Johnstone.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 04 January 1861]:
The flat Queen, of Runcorn, hence for Holyhead, was in collision with a steamer on Monday outside the Bell Buoy, and sank. Crew picked up by the tug Enterprise, off the Ormeshead. [cargo coal]

[from Glasgow Saturday Post, and Paisley and Renfrewshire Reformer - Saturday 12 January 1861]:
Liverpool, January 3. On the night of Monday last, the flat Queen, of Runcorn, was run into by a steamer. In a few minutes the flat went down, and the crew, three in all, were immersed. The flat's punt, however, floated past, and the foundering men succeeded in getting into it. In this position - their clothes wringing wet, the boat half-filled with water, and the atmosphere so fearfully keen that their wet clothes were frozen to their limbs, which in a short time became powerless; they floated about until the following morning, when, after being fifteen hours in this dreadful state, they were rescued by the steam tug Enterprise, off the Great Ormeshead.


Wooden schooner Richard, built Northwich, 1840, 63 tons. See sale advert 1855 below. RCUS gives Richard, ON 8103, built Northwich 1840, schooner, 51 tons, stranded taking salt cake from Dublin to Liverpool, 12 October 1870, crew of 3 saved, owned Evan Evans. MNL has registered Chester 1849-57, 61 tons, then Liverpool 1858-1860, 50 tons, and finally Beaumaris from 1861 on.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Tuesday 18 October 1870]:
Beaumaris. Oct 17. The Richard schooner, of this port, Jones, from Dublin for Liverpool (salt cake), drove ashore Oct. 12, near Llananlas [sic] lifeboat house, and went to pieces; crew saved. [Llananlas is Llanddulas (RNLI lifeboat from 1869) most probably]

Wooden schooner Margaret & Ann, built Northwich 1849, 73 tons. Probably, Margaret & Ann, registered Chester 6/1849, 73 tons, ON 22792, in MNL to 1871, 57 tons, owned Gibson, Cheshire. Gibson was a prominent ship-builder at Northwich, so he most probably built this vessel.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 19 April 1855]:
For Sale.
The Schooner MARGARET AND ANN; 72 72-100ths tons, built at Northwich, in 1849, length 63 feet, breadth 15 feet, depth 7 feet 8-10ths.
The Schooner RICHARD; 63 60-100ths tons, built at Northwich, in 1840, almost rebuilt in 1850, length 61 feet 6-10ths, breadth 15 feet, depth 7 feet 2-10ths. ...
[Northern Daily Times - Wednesday 18 April 1855: has first vessel named MARY ANN, later corrected]


Wooden schooner Mary, built Witton, Northwich, 1840, 58 tons. RCUS gives built at "Wilton", Cheshire, 1840. So build information not confirmed. Possibly registered as Liverpool, 236/1850, 66 tons, which became Lancaster 16/1854. Mary is an extremely common name - so hard to track. ON 16434, registered Lancaster, 1854, 66 tons, by 1871 owned Hadwen, Ulverston. Voyage Liverpool to Ravenglass, with grain, aground on Selker Rocks, wrecked, 26 September, 1870.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Friday 30 September 1870]:
Mary, Iddon schooner, from Liverpool for Ravenglass (grain), struck on Selmar Rock [sic, Selker], near Bootle, on Monday morning, at 7; crew saved; there is eight feet of water round the vessel at low water. She will become a wreck.

[from Lloyd's List - Friday 30 September 1870]:
Mary (schr) Lancaster from Liverpool to Ravenglass, deposition of T Iddon, master. Whitehaven 28 Sept.
  WHITEHAVEN, Sept 28th. The vessel bound from Liverpool to Ravenglass, which struck off Bootle, 26th Sept., and sunk, was the Mary, of Lancaster (Off, No. 16,434), Iddon, not the Mary Iddon, as before reported.


Wooden schooner Majestic, built Northwich 1841 [from MNL], [1843 from sale advert]. Registered 200/1841, Liverpool, 68 tons, then 67/1853. ON 22820, registered Liverpool, 68 tons, later 58 tons, owned Wicklow, to 1876. Voyage Liverpool to Wicklow with coal, 21 March 1876, in fog ashore on Dulas Island, crew of 4 saved in own boat.

[from Liverpool Albion - Monday 06 March 1865]:
Sale... The Schooner MAJESTIC, Built of Oak, in 1843 [sic], at Northwich, for the coasting trade, and carries 122 tons dead weight on 8 feet 6 inches draft of water; was thoroughly repaired recently at Runcorn, when she had new Masts, Spars, and Rigging; had New Suit of Sails last year. Dimensions: Length, 65 feet; breadth, 16 feet 8 inches; depth, 7 feet. Lying in the Widnes Dock.

[from North Wales Chronicle - Saturday 25 March 1876]:
Shipwreck at Amlwch. - On Tuesday last, the 21st inst., about half-past eight p.m., the schooner Majestic, of Liverpool, James Flanagan, master, from Liverpool for Wicklow with a cargo of coal, went ashore on Dulas Island, Anglesey, during very thick fog and strong easterly wind; no lights or land could be seen. Crew saved; four in number, landed in their own boat on the beach in the main land, about twelve o'clock midnight, and proceeded to a farmhouse close by called the Storehouse, when they were all very kindly treated by the landlord, Mr Richard Roberts, and his family. Should the weather prove fine, the vessel may be floated off, after discharging the cargo, as she is dry at low water. Only their boat was a very good one, the master and crew would not have been able to land, owing to such heavy sea on the island.


Wooden sloop Prestatyn, built John Thompson, Northwich, 1845, 63 tons, registered Runcorn 7/1849, ON 16191, in MNL to 1933, latterly owned ICI, 64 tons. In 1906 rebuilt by Yarwood, yard no 4.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Thursday 30 April 1863]:
The flat Prestatyn, of Runcorn, with coals, for Liverpool, foundered off Woodside yesterday morning, after collision with another flat. [presumably lifted since in MNL for many years afterwards]


Wooden flat Clara, built Northwich 1847, registered Liverpool, 1871, ON 65879, in MNL to 1895, owned Williamson, Sankey Bridges. [see Wrecks of Liverpool Bay, p83, where erroneously called Clare]. Voyage Port Dinorwic to Liverpool with slates, abandoned 6 February 1895, NE of Rhyl. Crew of 2 saved. Probable site of wreck.


Wooden schooner/flat Intrepid, built John Thompson, Northwich 1848. Registered Runcorn 1849, 51 tons, ON 8851, has schooner Intrepid built Northwich 1848, 44 tons, but later 66 tons, rebuilt 1878 as a Flat. In MNL to 1907.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Wednesday 16 July 1856];
The Schooner INTREPID, 51 tons register; built at Northwich, in the year 1848, and has been regularly employed in the coasting trade; caries a large cargo, sails well, and is ready for immediate employment. Length 68 feet 5-10ths, breadth 18 feet 3-10 ths, depth 5 feet 7-10 ths, in King's Dock. For further particulars apply to CURRY & CO., Brokers.


Wooden schooner Charles Whitley, built Witton, Cheshire 1849. Witton is near Northwich, on the river Weaver. Registered Runcorn 12/1849, 54 tons. ON 8827. Appropriation list states registered Whitehaven 1849 - but not in Cumbrian shipping register list, and ON 8828 is listed as registered Runcorn, although it should be Whitehaven: so it is probable that the ports of registration were exchanged in error when written in the list. MNL reports registered Liverpool 1857 on. From 1867-72 registered Freetown, Sierra Leone.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Wednesday 16 July 1856]:
The Schooner CHARLES WHITLEY, 54 tons register; built at Wilton [sic], near Chester, in 1849, and is admirably adapted for the coasting trade, in which she has been constantly employed. Length 65 feet 9-10ths, breadth 14 feet 1-10th, depth 6 feet 3-10ths, lying in Canning Dock. For further particulars apply to CURRY & CO., Brokers.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Thursday 08 October 1863]:
Barrow: ... On the same day, the Charles Whitley, of Saltney, from Queen's Ferry to this port, with bricks, in running for Fleetwood for shelter during the gale, struck on Barnard's wharf and filled, where she remains, crew saved. [captain: Conway]

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Saturday 15 July 1865]:
Queen's Dock: Charles Whitley, 48, Penney, B B Walker, Africa [sailed August, at Madeira 28 Aug, to Sierra Leone]


Wooden schooner Wanderer, built John Thompson, Northwich, 1849. ON 8184. Registered Liverpool 612/1853, 73 tons. More history. Lost 28 September 1856 on Colt Island, attempting to enter Skerries. Crew reported drowned.

[from Northern Daily Times - Wednesday 18 July 1855]:
The Schooner WANDERER, register 99 2307-3500 tons; carries a large cargo at easy draught of water. Lying Canning Dock; and measuring: length, 67 feet 8-10ths; breadth, 17 feet 6-10ths, depth, 10 feet 2-10ths. For particulars, apply to RICHARD GOODWIN, Wellington-buildings, South Castle-street.

[from Lancaster Guardian - Saturday 04 October 1856]:
Equinoctial Gales. .. About seven o'clock [on Sunday morning] the schooner Wanderer, of Liverpool, was seen between Rockabill and Church Island, making for Skerries, the gale at the time raging furiounsly. Coming too close to Colt Island, she got ashore, and before eight o'clock was completely dashed to pieces, and all hands are supposed to be lost. It is beleved that she had become unmanageable, as her rudder was washed ashore. About five o'clock in the evening, the bodies of a young woman and child were washed on shore, one at Shenix [sic Shenick] Island and the other at Skerries. [some newsapapers say: crew saved, some crew drowned]


Wooden schooner Isabel, built Northwich 1850, 51 / 44 tons. Probably: ON 1164, registered Liverpool, 1854, 51 tons, registered Chester from 1862-70.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 18 February 1858]:
Schooner ISABEL, 51 tons register, late act; 43 99-100ths tons present act; Length 69 feet, breadth 14 feet, depth 5 feet 5-10ths . Built at Northwich. in 1850, and then classed A 1 six years; had new kelson, and received other repairs in 1854. sails without ballast, carries 90 tons dead weight on 5.5 feet water, She is now in order, and could be sent to sea immediately: lying at Northwich, [By June 1858, lying Canning Dock, Liverpool, described as coasting schooner]

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Thursday 29 April 1869]:



Wooden schooner Maria, built Northwich 1855. ON 7072, registered Liverpool 1855, 90 tons. in MNL to 1890, latterly owned Carrigfergus. Voyage Garston to Rostrevor, in fog, aground on Cooley shore, crew saved, 18 February 1890. Attempt made to get her off - but she sank nearby.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Friday 24 October 1856]:
FOR SALE. The handy Schooner MARIA; 90 17-100th tons register. Length 76 feet 3-10ths, beam 18 feet, depth 9 feet 1-10th. Built at Northwich, in November, 1855, and classed nine years A 1; is flat floored, and takes the ground well with heavy cargoes: in Birkenhead Dock. ....

[from Lloyd's List - Thursday 27 February 1890]:
MARIA. - Report of George Hill, master of the schooner Maria, of Liverpool, 90 tons, from Garston, Feb. 17, at 9 20 a.m., for Rostrevor, with 137 tons coal:-
Proceeded, the weather being very thick. On the 18th, at 6 p.m., tide being first quarter flood, weather thick and stormy. wind S.E., blowing a moderate gale, the vessel passed Cooley Buoy, about a mile and a half off the mainland (at Cooley Point, co. Louth), but could not see the land on account of the thick fog. The buoy was on the port side about three cable lengths off, and, failing to see the lights in Carlingford Lough, tacked vessel and stood out to sea until the weather should moderate and clear up. At 8 tacked vessel again and made for the land, thinking to see Haulbowline Light, but failed. Saw the breakers ahead, and tacked vessel immediately, but she stopped in stays, and went on a reef of rocks, afterwards discovered to be Cooley Reef, where she now lies in a dangerous position, and likely to become a total wreck. In consequence of the heavy sea, the crew were obliged to take to the rigging and wait until the tide went down, when they all succeeded in walking ashore. No boat could have rendered assistance in the position the vessel was. No soundings were taken before going ashore. Deponent was in charge when vessel struck, and was at the wheel. No salvage services were rendered. The tide went down, leaving the vessel dry all round, and crew walked ashore at 4 a.m. on the 19th, having saved some of their effects and the vessel's papers, and deponent proceeded at once to Custom House, Newry, to report casualty, arriving at 2 30 p.m., leaving crew ashore at Cooley Point in charge of the vessel, and to save anything coming ashore. If the weather moderates, the cargo and vessel may possibly be saved, though she was full of water five minutes after she struck, in consequence of the heavy seas that broke over her.

[from Newry Telegraph - Tuesday 25 March 1890]:
THE SCHOONER MARIA. This vessel, which had become a wreck some time time ago on the Cooly shore, with a cargo of coal; was recently sold by public auction. The hull, which lay in a dangerous position, surrounded by rocks, was considered to be of such strongly built materials that it would be worth while making temporary repairs, and endeavouring to have her removed to a place where permanent repairs could be completed. Accordingly, we are informed, Mr John A Hunter was entrusted with the making of such an attempt. He had been engaged for about eight or nine days with skilled workmen doing necessary repairs, working even by torchlight to expedite matters, the weather being then favourable for such operations was taken advantage of to the utmost extent. All things being ready on Saturday last, and the tugboat which was to tow her off was ordered to be ready for twelve o'clock, the weather in the early morning was all that could be desired. However, by eleven o'clock the weather broke, and a strong southerly gale, accompanied by rain, set in, and caused a very considerable rough surf and swell on the shore. The vessel floated well, as had been anticipated, and was drawn out her position with skill and caution to meet the approaching tug; but the latter, probably from the force of wind and tide, was unable to approach the right place for considerably over an hour after the floating of the schooner. During this time the wind and sea were increasing in force every moment. This placed the schooner in a very critical position, there being no way to keep her under proper control. At last she was taken in tow, but had only got out a little way over low water mark when it became apparent that the beating of the surge tide had further damaged the bottom, through which the water rushed, the natural effect of which was that the schooner sank. It is only proper to mention that from the position of the schooner in the first instance it was impossible to get at the keel or bottom until she could be removed. We are sorry that the circumstances over which it was impossible for any person to have control, and which no person could foresee, militated against that success which Mr Hunter would have highly merited. The fact of it not being successful on the present occasion can in no way be considered a want of skill or judgment on his part.


Wooden schooner Mayflower (also May Flower), built Northwich 1856. ON 15198, "May Flower", registered Lancaster 1856, 69 tons, by 1860 as "Mayflower". In MNL to 1864. [Barrow vessels were registered at Lancaster until 1868]. Voyage Dublin to Cardiff with timber, lost off St David's, 18 November 1864.

[from Ulverston Mirror and Furness Reflector - Saturday 14 April 1860]:
TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION, At the Barrow Harbour Hotel, Barrow, on Friday, the 20th of April, 1860, at Five o'clock in the Evening:
Eight 64-Shares of the fine Schooner "MARY," of Barrow, built at Liverpool in 1856, and carries 142 tons dead weight. [see here, ON 15193, registered Lancaster]
Also, Four 64-Shares of the Fine Schooner "MAYFLOWER." of Barrow, built at Northwich in 1856, and carries 140 tons dead weight. Parties wishing to embark in shipping will find this a good opportunity. JOHN SHAW, Auctioneer.
[see also sale advert here]

[from Morning Herald (London) - Monday 21 November 1864]:
ST. DAVID'S, Nov. 18. The Mayflower, schooner, of Barrow, Dublin to Cardiff, has been assisted in with bows stove in and waterlogged, but subsequently broke adrift from her moorings and drifted out of the harbour, and has become a total wreck; was timber laden.


Wooden schooner Isabella Fisher, built Northwich 1856, [from RCUS]. Registered Lancaster 5/1856, 89t; ON 18224, owned Thomas Fisher, Barrow. Voyage Ardrossan to Newport with pig iron, ashore on Skull Martin, 20 December 1860, wrecked, crew of 5 saved.

[from Morning Herald (London) - Saturday 29 December 1860]:
BELFAST, Dec. 28. The Isabella Fisher, from Ardrossan to Newport, which was stranded on Scull Martin Rocks on Dec. 20, has gone to pieces.

[from Belfast Morning News - Monday 31 December 1860]:
TOMORROW. Shipwreck Sale at Ballywalter. TO BE SOLD by AUCTION, for account of whom it may concern, on TUESDAY, the 1st January, 1861, at One o'clock, at MORRISON'S INN, BALLYWALTER, the WRECK of the British-Built Schooner, ISABELLA FISHER, of Barrow, as it now lies at Ballywalter. Also, the Masts, Spars, Sails, Standing and Running Rigging, Chains, and other Materials saved from the Wreck. ...


Wooden flat Margaret, built Northwich 1852. ON 13579.

Wooden flat Ann, built Northwich 1853. ON 13578.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Friday 01 January 1858]:
On THURSDAY, the 14th January, at one o'clock, at the Broker's Sale-room, Walmer-buildings, Water-street, The Flat ANN; 57 tons per register; built at Northwich, in 1853. Dimensions: Length 64 ft 7inches, breadth 16 feet 8 inches, depth 7 feet 7 inches.
Also, the Flat MARGARET; 52 tons per register; built at Northwich, in 1852. Dimensions: Length 65 feet 5 inches, breadth 16 feet 7 inches, depth 7 feet.
Also, the Flat ELIZABETH; 47 tons; built at St. Helens. Dimensions; Length 61 feet 9 inches, breadth 13 feet 2 inches, depth 6 feet 4 inches.
These flats have been built for the salt trade, and are square sterned.


Wooden schooner Thomas Pearson, built Brown, Castle Dock, Northwich, 1859. ON 27764, registered Lancaster 1859, 103 tons, then Beaumaris 1898-1928, latterly 78 tons. More history. See sale advert in 1861.

[from Chester Chronicle - Saturday 23 April 1859]:
Launch Castle Dock Yard, Northwich. On Saturday the 15th last, a magnificent schooner capable of carrying 220 tons was launched from Mr. Brown's dock yard. She is the largest and finest built craft that ever descended into the River Weaver from this district. Her form is perfect symmetry, and does great honour to the tasteful builder. The day was propitious, and the whole town thronged to witness the spectacle, for on no former occasion do we remember so vast a concourse of spectators. After the usual preliminaries, the noble vessel, amid the acclamations of the populace, gracefully glided in to the water, having been named by Miss Clara Brown the esteemed daughter of the builder. She is called the Thomas Pearson, and intended mainly for coasting trade, but with capabilities of undertaking far more extensive voyages. We cheerfully award the mede of honour to the man who has given an attested proof of his naval skill, and wish him all the success that his enterprise and ability demand.

[from Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Thursday 11 June 1903]:
THOMAS PEARSON, schooner, from Garston for Padstow, with coal. Vessels previously reported aground on East Hoyle Bank are schooner Thomas Pearson, of Beaumaris, and sailing flat Hannah of Runcorn, from Liverpool for Connah's Quay, with a cargo of steel billets. Lifeboat standing by. Later: Both floated off, schooner proceeded to Beaumaris; flat brought into Hilbre Island, leaking badley.

[from Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 04 March 1913]:
The schooner Thomas Pearson, from Cork for Bristol Channel, with coals, has put into Holyhead with a slight list, pumps choked, and cargo damaged by sea water.


Wooden schooner John William, built Northwich 1860. ON 28001, registered Lancaster 1860, 61 tons, owned Ulverston. In MNL to 1889. Voyage Douglas to Ulverston, leaky, abandoned, 30 September 1888, crew saved. More history.

[from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 13 October 1888]:
Fleetwood, September 30th, 1888. The schooner "John William", of and for Ulverston from Douglas, with coal tar, was abandoned leaky this morning, and is believed to have foundered; crew landed here by barque "Svelvig".


Wooden schooner Clara Brown, built Northwich 1860 [from RCUS]. Registered Lancaster 1860, 70 tons, ON 28004, MNL gives owner Elizabth Brown, Northwich. Described as being of Barrow - which was within the Lancaster registration area at that date. Voyage Saltney to Barrow with coal, suddenly capsized and sank off Liverpool, with the loss of all 3 aboard, 5 July 1870.

[from Ulverston Mirror and Furness Reflector - Saturday 14 July 1860]:
FOR SALE, a number of Shares in the New Schooner, CLARA BROWN, Apply to W. K. CHAMLEY, ULVERSTON.

[from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser - Wednesday 08 November 1865]:
PORTRUSH Nov. 3. Yesterday, in the height of the gale, the schooner Clara Brown, Williams, [of Barrow, cargo coal] from Cardiff for Londonderry, came to in Skerries Roads, but owing to the gale could not get into safe anchorage. The National Lifeboat was launched and proceeded to her, and, after making all seccure, took the crew of four men off for the night; but the gale having abated, they are going off this morning in the pilotboat.

[from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 09 July 1870]:
ULVERSTON. Loss of a Barrow Schooner and all hands. A lamentable and somewhat unaccountable accident happened off the Lancashire coast on Tuesday, involving the loss of the Barrow schooner Clara Brown and every soul on board. The vessel, which was eight years old, was commanded by Captain Richard Latham, who made his first, and as it happened his last, voyage in her on this occasion. She was loaded with a cargo of coals from Saltney, for Mr. James Fisher, of Barrow, and left the Dee at an early hour on Tuesday morning, the Flower of May and the Lady of Lune being in her company. About half-past nine o'clock they were at a point betwixt Formby Lighthouse and Southport, S. by W. from the Queen's Channel buoy, Clara Brown being then about thirty yards astern, when one of the crew of the Flower of May cried out to his captain: "What's to do with the Clara Brown, she's going over!" On looking round he saw the ill fated vessel on her side, while those on board had got from the deck to the bulwarks. The captain of the Flower of May at once gave orders to stay his vessel, but she missed stays, and then he weared the ship, but before she was fairly about, the Clara Brown heeled over and went down stern foremost. When they got to the spot where she sank only a few spars were seen floating on the surface. The schooner had foundered in seven fathoms of water, her main-top-gallant-sail and all above being visible. One of the three men on board was observed to run up the bowsprit towards the jib-boom as the schooner sank. The captain's father, who like himself belonged to Preston, acted as mate, and the other hand was a sailor from Tarleton, named - Thomas Iddon. The lives of all three were sacrificed. The sea was moderate at the time, and the cause of the unfortunate catastrophe must for ever remain a mystery.

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Vessels built Winsford:

Wooden flat Jane, built Winsford 1823 [from RCUS], registered Liverpool 679/1854, then Cardiff 4/1855, 44 tons. ON 22277. Voyage Cardiff to Exmouth with railway iron, collision and foundered off Lundy on 8 June 1860. Crew of 5: two saved and three lost; owned James Ware.

[from Lloyd's List - Friday 15 June 1860]:
MILFORD, 14th June. The JANE, of Exeter, Seaward, from Cardiff to Exmouth, with railway iron, foundered 8th June, about 18 miles SW Lundy Island, after being in contact with the VOLUSIA, Jarvis, from Cardiff to Theodosia; three men drowned; two saved by the Volusia, which put them on board a Tenby fishing smack on the morning of the 9th.


Wooden flat Industry, built Winsford 1827 [from RCUS], 48 tons. Possibly vessel registered at Liverpool 275/1836, 48 tons. Sank 7 October 1850 in Llandudno Bay, cargo slates.

[from Liverpool Mercantile Gazette and Myers's Weekly Advertiser - Monday 14 October 1850]:
Monday 8th October. The flat Industry, of Liverpool, laden with slates, sank this morning in Llandudno bay, crew saved. [3 crew]


Wooden flat/schooner Mariner, built Cross, Winsford, 1831. 87 tons, registered Liverpool 1836, 70 tons. For sale in 1831 as a flat. ON 12058, for sale 1866 as a schooner, registered Dublin 1868-86, as a schooner, 59 tons, owned Byrne, Wicklow. Crew lists to 1873 only. Reported ashore in Belfast Lough and damaged, 17 December 1872. Was put pack in service, but posted missing after leaving Liverpool on 4 October 1873, for Wicklow. See also 1886 report of old vessels lost, when register closed.

[from Wicklow News-Letter and County Advertiser - Saturday 20 October 1866]:
SCHOONER FOR SALE. SOLD BY AUCTION, on WEDNESDAY next, 24th OCTOBER, 1866, as she now lies at the NORTH QUAY, in the River of Wicklow, the substantially British built Schooner Mariner of Liverpool (slightly damaged), 59 Tons Register, and carrying 100 Tons on eight feet of water, she has all her materials on board, and is well found. - The sale takes place owing to the embarrassed circumstaoces of the owner. ...

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Wednesday 25 December 1872]:
Mariner. Report of John Healy, Master of the schooner Mariner, of and for Dublin, from Ardrossan, with cargo of 105 tons of coal:- Left Ardrossan Dec. 4, at 3 P.M., wind S.E., light, fine. Proceeded, and came to anchor in Rothesay Bay on 5th inst., owing to head winds, where we remained till 10th inst. On 11th, being favourable, proceeded on voyage. Finding that vessel was making much water, put into Belfast Lough, and anchored same night. On the 17th, at 12 30 a m., tide flood, weather thick, with rain, wind S.E., strong gale, the ship having port anchor down in two fathoms water, intending to beach at low tide to stop leak, sea running high, vessel began to strike heavily, and fearing that she might break up, I slipped anchor and let vessel drive ashore on Whiteabbey Beach, County Antrim, where she still remains. Cargo will be discharged where vessel now lies for the purpose of a survey being held.

[from Irish Times - Friday 14 November 1873]:
THE SCHOONER MARINER. Subscriptions have been set on foot here to relieve the families of the crew of the schooner Mariner, which left Liverpool on the 4th of October last, bound for Wicklow, and has not since been heard of.

[from Globe - Monday 21 June 1886]:
WORN-OUT SHIPS. The last monthly return of vessels whose names have been removed from the register of British shipping shows that our mercantile marine still contains some very ancient craft. They are, however, gradually disappearing, and we doubt whether more than dozen are left which can boast of having left the stocks a century ago. One of these fine old arks, the Friendship, of Dublin, which was broken up last month, first put to sea in 1784. It would be interesting to know when she made her last voyage. We have that information in the case the Eliza, of Bridgwater, a ninety-one-year-old schooner, which is set down in the report as "foundered". Whether such crazy old tubs should be allowed to leave port is a serious question. We are inclined to think that they should be reserved, like the Woods, of Newry, which was launched in 1793, for inland use only. In addition to those already mentioned, the list contains the names of two other craft more than 90 years old, both being broken up, while there are quite a considerable number that entered the world before the first Beform Bill. It speaks well for British workmanship in those times that these relics of our wooden walls should not only hang together, but be capable of facing the sea. Not always with impunity, however, the ugly word "lost" appears against the name of the Mariner, a Dublin schooner, 55 years old, and also against that of the Agnes, another Dublin craft, her senior by 14 years.


Wooden schooner Ann & Elizabeth built Winsford 1836, 52 tons, ON 10618, registered Liverpool 1837, 61 tons, by 1870, owned Simpson, Runcorn. In MNL to 1879, latterly owned Green, Liverpool. Collided with pier at Penmaenmawr, 7 May 1879, 3 crew saved.

[from Liverpool Albion - Saturday 10 May 1879]:
Ann & Elizabeth, schooner, was totally wrecked at Penmaenmawr on the 7th inst. Part of hull and materials saved.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 31 May 1879]:
LIVERPOOL SHIPWRECK AND HUMANE SOCIETY. At a meeting of the committee of the above society, held yesterday, the following awards for saving life were made:- .... RELIEF TO SUFFERERS FROM SHIPWRECK. 20s. each, in clothing, to three persons who were wrecked in the schooner Ann and Elizabeth, which vessel sank after having been in collision with the pier at Penmaenmawr, during a NNW. gale, on the 6th instant.


Wooden sloop/schooner Eliza, built Winsford 1842, ON 1648, registered Lancaster 1854, 63 tons, latterly owned George Porter, Barrow. More history. Voyage Ellesmere Port to Douglas with coal, abandoned at sea, leaky, 18 October 1872.

[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Tuesday 22 October 1872]:
Liverpool: The Eliza schooner, of Lancaster, Johnson, from Ellesmere Port for Douglas (I.M.) (coals), sprung a leak Oct. 1, and was beached between New Ferry and Rock Ferry while she was caulked; she left the Mersey on the 17th, but again became leaky, and was abandoned next day about 15 miles south of Douglas Head with two feet of water in the cabin sheets; crew landed Mostyn.


Wooden flat Dido, built Winsford 1843, registered Liverpool 218/1848, 65 tons, later registered Runcorn. ON 6030. In MNL to 1886, latterly owned Hughes, Amlwch, 57 tons. Voyage Garston to Amlwch, with ore, ashore at Llandulas, 8 January 1886.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Monday 11 January 1886]:
Dido, from Garston for Amlwch, with ore, ashore at Llandulas, and is a total wreck. [crew saved]


Wooden schooner Jane, built William Cross, Winsford 1850. ON 1688, registered Lancaster 1854, 75 tons. Owned Barrow, then later Antrim. In MNL to 1882, described a built Winsford 1850. Confusingly the same Antrim owner, John Fisher, [a branch of the Fisher family of Barrow who exported iron ore via Red Bay in Antrim] had another schooner Jane, ON 1828, also registered Lancaster, built Chester 1844. More history, although claims built in 1845[sic]. Jane is a popular name for ships - so history is hard to disentangle.

[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 03 October 1850]:
For SALE, The fine Schooner JANE lately launched at Winsford, About 98 tons, built by Mr William Cross, of the best materials, principally English oak. This vessel is adapted for the coasting or foreign trade. Lying in Queen's Dock. ...


Wooden lugger Richard, built Winsford 1851, 67 tons, ON 44372, rgistered Runcorn 1864, 63 tons, in MNL to 1891, latterly owned Gordon, Annalong. More history. Trading Annalong to Belfast with stone, to 1888, master M'Burney.


Wooden schooner Eleanor, built Winsford, 1854, ON 13178. Registered Liverpool 1854, 83 tons, then Lancaster/Barrow 1867, 71 tons, latterly owned Fisher, Antrim. Lost at sea, 18 November 1880, on voyage to Douglas, with coal, crew of 4 lost. More history.

[from Liverpool Mercury - Wednesday 17 November 1880]:
A telegram from Douglas, Isle of Man, states that the schooner Eleanor, of Barrow, is believed to have been lost last night, as her small boat was found, together with a quantity of light wreckage, floating about Douglas Bay. She was expected at Douglas with coal.

[from Soulby's Ulverston Advertiser and General Intelligencer - Thursday 25 November 1880]:
Supposed Loss of Barrow Vessels. The schooner Eleanor, belonging to Messrs. Fisher of Barrow, foundered off the Isle of Man, during a severe gale. She was under the command of Captain Warrington, and had three hands on board. The Emma, belonging to the same firm, is also reported missing. She was on a voyage from Barrow to Rotterdam. The Morecambe Belle, of Barrow. which was reported as having been wrecked, is lying at Whitehaven. The schooner Seven Sisters ran ashore at Milford Haven during the gale, but was got off after discharging a portion of her cargo. The Mary Atkinson, Captain Thomas, owned by Mr. Geldart, of Barrow, is reported missing. 39t

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