Oswego Palladium (Oswego, NY), Friday, Jan. 3, 1874

The launch of a handsome vessel in winter is a novelty in this section of the country not often witnessed by our people. It is seldom that the elements will permit outdoor work during out long tedious winters, and of a necessity shipbuilding is carried on with much trouble and delay. But this winter, so far, seems to be an exception, and work where laborers have no shelter save that which is vouchsafed by a kind Providence, is carried on without let or hindrance.

A launch will call forth a larger crowd upon shorter notice than anything we know of, not excepting an alarm of fire. There is a charm about the launch of a prettily turned vessel, that enchains a crowd for hours and holds even the noisy boys in hand, repressing their wild shouts. The spice of danger attracts many, for there is no launch unattended by danger, though happily those who attend, looking for accident, have been disappointed latterly.

Yesterday forenoon at eleven o'clock a large crowd had assembled at the shipyard of Goble & Macfarlane to witness the launch of the fourth vessel that that enterprising firm have constructed in one year. The weather was propitious for a successful launch, the sun shining cheeringly and a gentle warm breeze from the south preventing the slush on the ways from congealing.

At the appointed time the shore blocks were removed, the order, "ready" was given, the word "three" spoken, and four broadaxes, wielded by stalwart, trusty men, glistened for a moment in the sun light and then descending with unerring aim, the lines which held the new vessel to her birth place were cut, and the handsome vessel, M.J. Cummings, bounded forward, courtesied majestically to her future supporter and settled quietly upon the bosom of the water.

The crowd cheered lustily; the ensign and burgee coquetted with the wind; the owners were pleased; the builders, "bosses" and men were happy, and wishing the new schooner a "Happy New Year" the crowd dispersed for refreshments.

The new vessel is owned by Messrs. Goble & Macfarlane, Daniel Lyons and E. Caulfield, of this city, and is a valuable acquisition to our lake marine. She is full canal size, 142 feet 6 inches length; 25 feet 2 inches beam; 11 feet 6 inches depth of hold, and will measure about 325 tons. She is built in the most substantial manner, the best timber entering into her composition, is of good model, symmetrical sheer, and has lean ends as can be given to a vessel of her capacity and size. She will be a three and after, similar in rig to the Sam. Cook, which was launched from the same yard last fall, and will cost when ready for sea, about $28,000.

Her cabin is to be finished with black walnut and chestnut, in Archie Preston's best style, and will eclipse any cabin on the lakes. We would congratulate the owners of the M.J. Cummings upon their happy selection of a name. If the vessel has the qualifications of her namesake, success must attend her.