Ariel Patterson
Historic Shipbuilding Legacy
CLASSIFICATION: Cold Case
LOCATION
Brooklyn, New York
TIME PERIOD
1807-1877
VICTIMS
0 confirmed
Ariel Patterson, a prominent shipbuilder, was active in the 19th century, primarily in Brooklyn, New York, where he established a reputation for constructing notable steamships, including the Ericsson and the Yankee Blade. Born on September 1, 1807, in Brockville, Canada, Patterson moved to the United States and operated his shipyard at the foot of North Eighth Street after the dissolution of his initial firm, Perrine, Patterson, and Stack, in 1853. He was involved in significant labor discussions, evidenced by his participation in a 1854 resolution against wage increases for shipbuilders. Patterson passed away on April 23, 1877, in Brooklyn, New York, leaving behind a legacy as a key figure in American maritime history. His shipyard contributed to the development of steamship technology and trade routes, particularly between New York and San Francisco.
Ariel Patterson's reputation as a prominent shipbuilder has led to speculation that his innovative designs and successful ventures may have contributed to his influence in the maritime industry during the 19th century. Some believe that his construction of the steamer Ericsson and the SS Yankee Blade positioned him as a key figure in the evolution of steamship travel between major cities. Additionally, there are theories that his business decisions and partnerships played a significant role in shaping the economic landscape of shipbuilding in Brooklyn during that era.
The Legacy of Ariel Patterson: A Master Shipbuilder's Journey
In the sprawling shipyards of 19th-century America, where the clang of metal met the scent of sawdust, Ariel Patterson carved his niche. Born on September 1, 1807, in Brockville, Canada, Patterson was destined to leave a lasting imprint on the maritime world. His story is one of ambition, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in shipbuilding, culminating in his death on April 23, 1877, in Chelsea, Massachusetts.
Early Beginnings
Patterson's journey began under the tutelage of the firm Perrine, Patterson, and Stack in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. This apprenticeship marked the start of his illustrious career, where he honed his skills and laid the foundation for his future endeavors. His reputation as a shipbuilder quickly grew, setting the stage for his remarkable contributions to the industry.
Building a Legacy: The Shipyard and Its Vessels
Patterson's shipyard became synonymous with innovation and quality. Among his most notable creations was the steamer Ericsson, launched in 1852. This vessel was groundbreaking, featuring the first hot air engine invented by John Ericsson. The three-masted side-wheel SS Yankee Blade soon followed, pioneering steamship trade routes between New York and San Francisco.
When Perrine, Patterson, and Stack dissolved in 1853, Patterson pressed on independently at the foot of North Eighth Street. His shipyard launched an impressive fleet, including the sloop Margaret Ann Lake (80 tons), brig Flying Cloud (400 tons), schooner Fidelia (90 tons), ship Wide Awake (900 tons), schooner Heloise (450 tons), brig Bonito (400 tons), and the bark Velocity (350 tons).
A Man of Principle: The 1854 Shipbuilders' Resolution
On March 27, 1854, Patterson, alongside 36 other shipbuilders, signed a pivotal document published in the New York Daily Herald. This resolution emerged from a meeting at William H. Webb's office, where shipbuilders of New York's port declared their respect for labor while opposing a wage increase from $2.50 to $3.00 per day, vowing not to strike for higher pay.
Expansion and Innovation
Patterson's ambitions expanded in 1863 when he purchased property at the foot of North Third Street in Brooklyn. Collaborating with influential figures—Commodore Vanderbilt, George Law, and A. A. Low—he envisioned the largest sectional dock in the country. By May 11, 1864, plans were underway to expand this dock, constructed of iron, to a length of 400 feet over waters 50 feet deep, accommodating the era's largest vessels. Patterson also established a sawing and planing mill at this location, cementing his legacy in shipbuilding.
Contributions During the Civil War
During the American Civil War, Patterson's expertise was invaluable to the US Government. His shipyard was responsible for crafting the woodwork for the USS Dictator in 1863. On November 23, 1864, a new pilot-boat, Ariel Patterson, No. 12, was launched in his honor, a testament to his enduring impact on the industry.
The Sub Marine Explorer
In 1865, Patterson collaborated with Julius H. Kroehl to develop the Sub Marine Explorer submarine. This 12-meter-long, 3.3-meter-diameter craft was based on a modified 1858 patent by Van Buren Ryerson. The submarine played a crucial role in blasting and clearing Diamond Reef in New York Harbor.
Retirement and Death
As the postwar decline in shipbuilding took hold, Patterson retired in 1867. He spent his remaining years in Brooklyn, where he passed away on April 23, 1877. His funeral, held at his son's residence, was officiated by Reverend W. H. Johnson. Patterson was laid to rest at the Evergreens Cemetery in Brooklyn, leaving behind three daughters and four sons. His wife, Helen Ayres, had predeceased him in July 1863.
A Lasting Influence
Ariel Patterson's life was a testament to innovation and craftsmanship in shipbuilding. His work not only advanced maritime technology but also shaped the development of American shipbuilding. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have on an industry.
Sources
For further details on Ariel Patterson's life and legacy, visit the Wikipedia article: Ariel Patterson.
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Birth of Ariel Patterson
Ariel Patterson is born in Brockville, Canada.
Launch of Steamer Ericsson
Patterson constructs the steamer Ericsson, featuring the first hot air engine.
Formation of Shipbuilding Firm
Patterson becomes a member of the firm Perrine, Patterson, and Stack.
Shipbuilders' Resolution
Patterson signs a document with other shipbuilders regarding wage disputes.
Launch of Francis B. Cutting
Patterson launches the ship Francis B. Cutting for the Antwerp trade.
Purchase of Shipyard Property
Patterson purchases property at the foot of North 3rd Street for shipbuilding.
Launch of Pilot-Boat Ariel Patterson
A pilot-boat named Ariel Patterson is launched in his honor.
Development of Sub Marine Explorer
Patterson collaborates on the Sub Marine Explorer submarine project.
Death of Ariel Patterson
Ariel Patterson passes away in Brooklyn, New York.
Ariel Patterson, a prominent shipbuilder, was active in the 19th century, primarily in Brooklyn, New York, where he established a reputation for constructing notable steamships, including the Ericsson and the Yankee Blade. Born on September 1, 1807, in Brockville, Canada, Patterson moved to the United States and operated his shipyard at the foot of North Eighth Street after the dissolution of his initial firm, Perrine, Patterson, and Stack, in 1853. He was involved in significant labor discussions, evidenced by his participation in a 1854 resolution against wage increases for shipbuilders. Patterson passed away on April 23, 1877, in Brooklyn, New York, leaving behind a legacy as a key figure in American maritime history. His shipyard contributed to the development of steamship technology and trade routes, particularly between New York and San Francisco.
Ariel Patterson's reputation as a prominent shipbuilder has led to speculation that his innovative designs and successful ventures may have contributed to his influence in the maritime industry during the 19th century. Some believe that his construction of the steamer Ericsson and the SS Yankee Blade positioned him as a key figure in the evolution of steamship travel between major cities. Additionally, there are theories that his business decisions and partnerships played a significant role in shaping the economic landscape of shipbuilding in Brooklyn during that era.
The Legacy of Ariel Patterson: A Master Shipbuilder's Journey
In the sprawling shipyards of 19th-century America, where the clang of metal met the scent of sawdust, Ariel Patterson carved his niche. Born on September 1, 1807, in Brockville, Canada, Patterson was destined to leave a lasting imprint on the maritime world. His story is one of ambition, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in shipbuilding, culminating in his death on April 23, 1877, in Chelsea, Massachusetts.
Early Beginnings
Patterson's journey began under the tutelage of the firm Perrine, Patterson, and Stack in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. This apprenticeship marked the start of his illustrious career, where he honed his skills and laid the foundation for his future endeavors. His reputation as a shipbuilder quickly grew, setting the stage for his remarkable contributions to the industry.
Building a Legacy: The Shipyard and Its Vessels
Patterson's shipyard became synonymous with innovation and quality. Among his most notable creations was the steamer Ericsson, launched in 1852. This vessel was groundbreaking, featuring the first hot air engine invented by John Ericsson. The three-masted side-wheel SS Yankee Blade soon followed, pioneering steamship trade routes between New York and San Francisco.
When Perrine, Patterson, and Stack dissolved in 1853, Patterson pressed on independently at the foot of North Eighth Street. His shipyard launched an impressive fleet, including the sloop Margaret Ann Lake (80 tons), brig Flying Cloud (400 tons), schooner Fidelia (90 tons), ship Wide Awake (900 tons), schooner Heloise (450 tons), brig Bonito (400 tons), and the bark Velocity (350 tons).
A Man of Principle: The 1854 Shipbuilders' Resolution
On March 27, 1854, Patterson, alongside 36 other shipbuilders, signed a pivotal document published in the New York Daily Herald. This resolution emerged from a meeting at William H. Webb's office, where shipbuilders of New York's port declared their respect for labor while opposing a wage increase from $2.50 to $3.00 per day, vowing not to strike for higher pay.
Expansion and Innovation
Patterson's ambitions expanded in 1863 when he purchased property at the foot of North Third Street in Brooklyn. Collaborating with influential figures—Commodore Vanderbilt, George Law, and A. A. Low—he envisioned the largest sectional dock in the country. By May 11, 1864, plans were underway to expand this dock, constructed of iron, to a length of 400 feet over waters 50 feet deep, accommodating the era's largest vessels. Patterson also established a sawing and planing mill at this location, cementing his legacy in shipbuilding.
Contributions During the Civil War
During the American Civil War, Patterson's expertise was invaluable to the US Government. His shipyard was responsible for crafting the woodwork for the USS Dictator in 1863. On November 23, 1864, a new pilot-boat, Ariel Patterson, No. 12, was launched in his honor, a testament to his enduring impact on the industry.
The Sub Marine Explorer
In 1865, Patterson collaborated with Julius H. Kroehl to develop the Sub Marine Explorer submarine. This 12-meter-long, 3.3-meter-diameter craft was based on a modified 1858 patent by Van Buren Ryerson. The submarine played a crucial role in blasting and clearing Diamond Reef in New York Harbor.
Retirement and Death
As the postwar decline in shipbuilding took hold, Patterson retired in 1867. He spent his remaining years in Brooklyn, where he passed away on April 23, 1877. His funeral, held at his son's residence, was officiated by Reverend W. H. Johnson. Patterson was laid to rest at the Evergreens Cemetery in Brooklyn, leaving behind three daughters and four sons. His wife, Helen Ayres, had predeceased him in July 1863.
A Lasting Influence
Ariel Patterson's life was a testament to innovation and craftsmanship in shipbuilding. His work not only advanced maritime technology but also shaped the development of American shipbuilding. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have on an industry.
Sources
For further details on Ariel Patterson's life and legacy, visit the Wikipedia article: Ariel Patterson.
No Recent News
No recent news articles found for this case. Check back later for updates.
No Evidence Submitted
No evidence found for this case. Be the first to submit evidence in the comments below.
Join the discussion
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Birth of Ariel Patterson
Ariel Patterson is born in Brockville, Canada.
Launch of Steamer Ericsson
Patterson constructs the steamer Ericsson, featuring the first hot air engine.
Formation of Shipbuilding Firm
Patterson becomes a member of the firm Perrine, Patterson, and Stack.
Shipbuilders' Resolution
Patterson signs a document with other shipbuilders regarding wage disputes.
Launch of Francis B. Cutting
Patterson launches the ship Francis B. Cutting for the Antwerp trade.
Purchase of Shipyard Property
Patterson purchases property at the foot of North 3rd Street for shipbuilding.
Launch of Pilot-Boat Ariel Patterson
A pilot-boat named Ariel Patterson is launched in his honor.
Development of Sub Marine Explorer
Patterson collaborates on the Sub Marine Explorer submarine project.
Death of Ariel Patterson
Ariel Patterson passes away in Brooklyn, New York.