Letter To The Editor: Stories On The Idlewild/Avalon

Greetings from the Upper Mississippi. Please convey to Capt. David Smith the great job he is doing with the weekly historic boat column. I particularly have enjoyed the several articles featuring the Idlewild/Avalon. The series is particularly of interest to me.

As a 16 year old, I was a crew member in 1960. My summer was spent doing the important job on the boat during the cruises of operating the popcorn machine on the forward, starboard side of the second deck, which was adjacent to the dance floor. Capt. Ernie Wagner regularly admonished me to salt the popcorn heavily.

“Our passengers love salt.”

I occupied the top bunked in First Mate Doc Hawley’s top deck cabin. A very warm location, as I was only a couple of feet under the tar roof.

Along with Doc and Don Sanders, I participated in the boat’s 100th anniversary. We were the only three living crew members at that time. I did note that Don is mentioned as speculating that he is the sole surviving crew member.

I will try to reach out to Capt. Don and assure him that presumption of my demise is premature.

Capt. Corky Bickel

Board Chair, National Rivers Hall of Fame