Smithsonian Institution
National Museum of American History: Steamboat Indiana's Last Voyage
The 'Indiana' steamboat sank in Lake Erie in the mid-1800's. The story of the ship is told through artifacts and maps.
Other
Arabia Steamboat Story
The story of the Arabia is tragic; however, the adventure of the rediscovery of the steamboat is fascinating. Take a glimpse back in time at the cargo brought back to life: French perfume, guns, bottles, buttons, and bells; all items...
Other
Forest Preserve District of Cook County (Illinois): River Steamboats
Information about the invention and development of steamboats as a mode of transportation.
Tennessee History For Kids
Tennessee History for Kids: Steamboats and the Trail of Tears
This website provides information about the roles of steamboats and the Trail of Tears in Tennessee history.
Read Works
Read Works: Steamboats and Railroads
[Free Registration/Login Required] An informational text about transportation changes. A question sheet is available to help students build skills in reading comprehension.
Other
Eastland Disaster History
One of the worst steamboat disasters in American history occurred when the ship was docked. Here are the tragic details and photos of the Eastland.
Curated OER
1928 Steamboat Willie (Movie)
This page gives background and other information about the first animated movie by Disney, SteamBoat Willie.
Curated OER
1928 Steamboat Willie (Movie)
This page gives background and other information about the first animated movie by Disney, SteamBoat Willie.
Curated OER
1928 Steamboat Willie (Movie)
This page gives background and other information about the first animated movie by Disney, SteamBoat Willie.
Other
Jefferson Historical Society: River to Rail
Although this site provides information on one town, Madison, IN; it is an absolute treasure trove of information on the development of the Midwest. Authors provide captivating historic photos and comprehensive narrative on the area...
Smithsonian Institution
National Museum of American History: Transportation in America Before 1876
In 1800, the United States was made up of 16 states, all east of the Appalachians, and most people lived within 50 miles of the Atlantic. Oceans and rivers were the nations' highways, providing the only viable way to travel long...
University of Houston
University of Houston: Engines of Our Ingenuity: No. 1338: The Last Masts
Read about the history of the steamboat and the difficult transition that led to the eventual relinquishing of a ship's sails. This article is a transcript of a radio broadcast.
Curated OER
Wikipedia: Natl Historic Landmarks in Kentucky: Belle of Louisville (Steamboat)
One of the last authentic steamboats in existence.
Curated OER
Wikipedia: National Historic Landmarks in Alaska: Nenana (River Steamboat)
River steamboat; only surviving wooden one of this type.
Curated OER
Steamboat
Traveling West was never easy! Here is a good description of the many ways people traveled. Of particular note is the paragraph on the steamboat crews.
PBS
Pbs Who Made America? Henry Miller Schreve
This frontiersman helped people travel and trade in the nation's interior by opening up the only viable highways -- American rivers.
Smithsonian Institution
National Postal Museum: Art of the Stamp: Mickey Mouse
View the artwork for a U.S. postage stamp issued in 2004 to commemorate Mickey Mouse's debut in "Steamboat Willie". With a short passage on Mickey's legendary 75 year history.
Curated OER
"Steamboat Willie"
The Roaring Twenties first saw the famous Mickey Mouse in Steamboat Willie, the first cartoon with synchronized sound.
Curated OER
Wikipedia: Natl Historic Landmarks in Connecticut: Sabino (Passenger Steamboat)
One of only two surviving members of the American "mosquito fleet", small steamers that served the inland waters of the United States.
Smithsonian Institution
National Postal Museum: Art of the Stamp: Paddlewheel Steamer
View the artwork for a U.S. postage stamp issued in 1989 to commemorate paddlewheel steamers, which revolutionized they way goods were shipped in the 19th century.
University of North Carolina
Mark Twain: Life on the Mississippi
Here, read Mark Twain's (1835-1910 CE) book, "Life on the Mississippi," which was originally published in 1883. Download two HTML versions of the text: one providing links to images in the original text and one with images included.
Other
Virtual Picture Travel Map of New Orleans
Click on New Orleans and take a virtual tour. See the French Quarter. Visit places of interest such as Lafayette No. 1 Cemetery, St. Louis Cathedral and Bourbon Street. Due to the interactive nature of this site, it may take loner than...