Priscilla Dailey

Priscilla Dailey is a wooden canal boat that now rests on the bottom of Bridgeport Harbor. The vessel has a rectangular hull with a distinctive rounded bow and squared-off stern, typical of cargo ships built in that era.

The boat was built in 1929 and spent decades transporting bulk cargo through harbors in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut until it sank in the Pequonnock River in 1974. It originally operated under the name Elizabeth E. Newell before being renamed.

The National Register of Historic Places includes this canal boat as a representation of maritime transportation methods in early 20th century America.

Much of the hull becomes visible above the water surface at low tide, making it easier to see the boat's structure and condition. Planning your visit around tidal conditions will help you get the best views of the wreck.

The boat originally sailed under the name Elizabeth E. Newell and was renamed in 1941 when Stewart J. Dailey took ownership. This change reflects a turning point in the vessel's working life that many visitors overlook.

GPS coordinates: 41.17830,-73.18720

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:43