Great American Steamboat Race

Discover the thrilling tale of the Great American Steamboat Race by Benton Rain Patterson, published by McFarland & Co Inc in 2009. This captivating paperback, spanning 216 pages, delves into the legendary competition that took place in the summer of 1870, pitting the iconic steamboats Robert E. Lee and Natchez against each other from New Orleans to St. Louis.

Experience the drama of this historic race, which remains the most famous steamboat contest in history. The Robert E. Lee, stripped of cargo, emerged victorious after an intense journey of 3 days, 18 hours, and 14 minutes, navigating through day, night, and fog. Patterson's meticulously researched narrative not only highlights the fierce rivalry but also explores the rich history of marine engineering and shipbuilding along the Mississippi River during the 19th century. Dive into this remarkable story and uncover the legacy of river steamers that shaped American history.