The first Tall Stacks event was held at Cincinnati in 1988. The idea grew out of a bicentennial commission to plan how to celebrate two centuries since the… Read More
Natchez
One of my favorite quotes about the passage of time is from the movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” “Life moves pretty fast,” Bueller says. “If you don’t stop and look… Read More
High water from heavy rains in the mid-Mississippi Valley area in early April reached the Lower Mississippi River in the second week of the month, triggering navigation restrictions along the… Read More
For nearly 50 years, the Steamboat Natchez has been one of the most recognizable and iconic vessels plying the waters in New Orleans’ busy harbor. The 236-foot-long, steam-powered sternwheeler… Read More
Legendary calliopist and steamboat master Capt. Clarke Campbell “Doc” Hawley, a native of Charleston, W.Va., and a near-50-year resident of New Orleans, died November 12 from complications related to… Read More
The river community was saddened recently to learn of the passing of Capt. Clarke C. “Doc” Hawley at age 87. Capt. Clarke ‘Doc’ Hawley at the Avalon… Read More
Guilford, Conn.-based American Cruise Lines christened the American Symphony in Natchez, Miss., August 30, marking the launch of its fifth new “modern” riverboat in four years. The American Symphony,… Read More
The Steamboat Natchez, the iconic New Orleans-based sternwheeler built in 1975, caught fire the night of May 3 while moored in the Inner Harbor Navigation Canal. The New… Read More
The Old Boat Column this week presents a steamboat named for a renowned river city. Known internationally as a quaint Southern town with a rich culture, the little river… Read More
Bill Bergeron died February 2 at age 73. The New Orleans maritime community, family and friends of William T. “Bill” Bergeron are celebrating his life, while also mourning… Read More


