Port Assists H. Lee White Museum With Schooner Ontario Engine Removal

The Port of Oswego Authority (POA) recently assisted the H. Lee White Museum  (HLWM) by lending personnel and one of its small cranes to remove the engine of the museum’s Schooner Ontario.

            “The Port is home to the museum, and we were glad we could assist them in removing the Ontario’s engine as part of its ongoing refitting,” said Francis Enwright, POA board chair. “ We always stand ready to help the museum. Back in February, the LT-5 historic WWII tugboat broke loose from its moorings in high winds and waves. POA personnel rushed a front loader and staff to the scene to help avert damage to the vessel and resecure it to the pier.”

            “Removing the engine marks a turning point in Ontario’s refit,,” said Mercedes Niess, HLWM executive director. “From here on out our team of dedicated volunteers will move forward building in the systems and accommodations to realize Ontario’s and the Museum’s mission. Sailing from yesterday into tomorrow, Ontario is the future of Tall Ship Sailing in Oswego.”

            According to the museum’s website, the 1850s-style topsail schooner ‘s mission is “to promote the stewardship of Lake Ontario’s maritime history, culture, and environment through tall ship sailing experiences.” The refit requires a significant overhaul to most major systems and a new engine, transmission, and generator are part of that process to provide better efficiency and sustainability. A history of this multi-year project, as well as updates on its progress, are available on the museum’s website: www.hlwmm.org.

A recently released U.S./Canadian research study shows that The Port of Oswego Authority, (POA), made over a half billion-dollar impact on the local and regional economy and supported 2,229 jobs by its maritime activity. The Port of Oswego generated $201.2 million in wages, salaries, and local consumption expenditures for the regional economy.

The Port of Oswego’s strategic location at the crossroads of the Northeastern North American shipping market, puts them less than 350 miles from 60 million people.

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