Riverboat Steamer, "Victoria" Model
Date1882
DimensionsOverall: 76.4 x 15.3 x 56 cm
Credit LineTransfer from the London and Middlesex Historical Society, 1958
Object number1958.001.337
Label TextThis model of the steamer Victoria was made from pieces of the wrecked vessel. The Victoria capsized on the Thames River near present-day Greenway Park on Victoria Day (May 24), 1881. The overcrowded steamer was on its way back downtown from Springbank Park. Something caused the passengers to rush to one side of the vessel. It listed and then the boiler rolled off its mount. Falling debris crushed some. Others drowned. Approximately 200 passengers died, most women and children. Following the disaster, some Londoners salvaged souvenirs from the wreck. They wanted mementos of what still is one of the worst maritime disasters in Canada's history.
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