Field Trip
Arabia Steamboat
Kansas City, MO
May
2023
Experiencing the past
A Glimpse Into the Past
Overview from The Arabia Steamboat Museum
“The Steamboat Arabia was built in West Brownsville, Pennsylvania, at the boatyard of John S. Pringle in 1853. At 171 feet long, the Arabia traveled the Missouri river and transported passengers as well as carried up to 222 tons of cargo, including tools for the frontier, merchandise for general stores and federal mail. But navigating the Mighty Missouri was a difficult and dangerous business.
“A variety of perils awaited the steamboat pilot as he carefully guided his craft along the river’s uncertain course.
“The most treacherous of the many hazards were fallen trees lying hidden from sight just under the river’s surface. These “snags” crippled and sank hundreds of steamboats from the 1820s to the 1870s. On September 5, 1856, just outside of Kansas City, the Arabia hit one of these snags and sank in a matter of minutes. Thankfully, the 150 passengers and crew made it off the boat safely.
“But the 200 tons of cargo were lost to the muddy river, not to be seen again for over 130 years.”
200 tons
Buried Treasure
Elegant China
Jars of Preserved Food
29
Patterns of Calico Buttons
4,000
Shoes & Boots still crated
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