Welland (Steamboat), 1 Dec 1853

ANOTHER NEW STEAMER. - We stated yesterday, in connection with the project of extending the Port Dalhousie and Thorold Rail Road to Port Colborne to connect with the Buffalo and Brantfort Railroa, that it was also proposed to build a steamer to run from St. Catharines or from Port Dalhousie to Toronto. The St. Catharines Constitution says.--" Our leading townsmen determined on having a boat for the ensuing season on the St. Catharines and Toronto routes, capable of making two trips a day--had effected the purchase of a new hull at Bath. We now have the satisfaction of announcing her arrival at No. 2, where her engine will be put in by Mr. Towers, and others et ceteras proceeded with during the winter. Competent judges assert that she will prove a clipper, and her model presents as beautiful a specimen of naval architecture as can well be conceived.
We append her dimensions:
Length, over all. . . . . 182 feet
Length, Keel, . . . . . 175 feet
Beam, . . . . . . . 25 feet 10 inches
Over guards . . . . . 44 feet
Depth of hold . . . . . 9 feet 6 inches
Draught, all on board, with steam on 5 feet
Diameter of Wheel, . . . . 27 feet
Breadth of face, . . . . 6 feet 6 inches

The engine will be 130 horse power, and, if we may judge from anteceents, its finish will not reflect discredit on the enterprising proprietor of the Novelty Iron Works.
The rapid growth of commerce between the two ports, together with the vast increase in travel via St. Catharines and the west---this route being somewhat shorter than by Niagara, and offering superior inducements---render the change imperative, and we congratulate all concerned on the speedy and successful completion of the purchase of so fine a vessel. Success to the WELLAND."
      Buffalo Daily Republic
      Saturday, December 31, 1853