Saugerties, NY Steamer Reindeer Fire, Sept 1852

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By Telegraph to the New York Daily Times.

The Burning of the Reindeer.

SAUGERTIES, Saturday, Sept. 11.--The hulk of the steamer Reindeer is almost entirely under water, and but a few charred timbers can be seen. The hulk of the steamer lies about half a mile from Bristol Landing, now near the flats. The stern of the boat is in thirty feet water, and the bow in thirteen feet. It is held there by the shaft, which fell over the side of the boat, one end of which was imbedded in the sand, and the other attached to the machinery.

Several of the insurance agents arrived this morning, and proceeded to examine the wreck. The machinery will be immediately taken out, which is said to be worth $20,000 or $30,000.

There were on board the boat at the time the fire took place, fifteen persons, mostly belonging to the boat. Capt. FARNHAM and Mr. WILLIAMSON, a son of one of the owners of the boat, and a nephew of Rev. GEO. R. WILLIAMSON, were at the time of the alarm asleep in the lower cabin. Capt. F. did not get to sleep until about 3 o'clock, shortly after which he was awakened by the cry of fire. He sprang out of bed, seized his clothes, and rushed to different parts of the boat where the crew were sleeping and aroused them.

He then went on deck and found the upper part of the boat filled with smoke. He succeeded in getting into his office, but while endeavoring to open the money drawer, which was locked, to get out the books, papers and money belonging to the boat the fireman came to him and told him that if he wished to save his life, he must go ashore.

The boat was then wrapt[sic] in flames and filled with smoke, and it was with much difficulty that the Captain and fireman ago ashore.

The origin of the fire is at present a mystery. Some mattresses and bedding that had been used for the wounded were put on board the boat in the space occupied by the gangway on the starboard side. Here the fire was first discovered.

There are many conjectures as to the probable cause of the fire. Some think it to have been the work of an incendiary, but there is nothing to justify this conclusion. The general impression is that it took fire from a spark from a passing boat, or from a cigar carelessly brushed, or even by spontaneous combustion.

Two watchmen had been on duty all night, but did not discover the fire until it was considerably advanced. Rough and Ready Fire Company, of this village, went up to Malden, drawing their engine by hand two miles, over a rough, hilly road, but did not arrive in time to render any assistance.

The remaining sick persons now lying at Malden are doing well, and the attending physician has hopes of their recovery.

Mr. McGREGOR was removed yesterday by the steam-boat Alida to his residence in Brooklyn.

The New York Times, New York, NY 13 Sept 1852
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Transcribed by Linda Horton. Thank you, Linda!