The story of the steamboat Arabia is a captivating chapter in American history, marked by adventure, tragedy, and remarkable preservation. This sidew heeler, which sank in the Missouri River on September 5, 1856, not only carried passengers but also a treasure trove of artifacts that would remain hidden for over a century.
The Journey of the Arabia
Built in 1853 in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, the Arabia was designed for navigating the challenging waters of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers before being sold to operate on the Missouri River. With a length of 171 feet and capable of carrying up to 222 tons of cargo, it was a vital vessel for transporting goods and people to the burgeoning frontier. On its final voyage, the Arabia was carrying 150 passengers and over 200 tons of freight, including supplies for settlers heading west. However, disaster struck when it hit a submerged sycamore tree snag near Parkville, Missouri. The impact ripped open the hull, causing the boat to sink rapidly within minutes. Fortunately, all passengers and crew escaped unharmed, but the cargo was lost to the depths of the river.
The Sinking and Its Aftermath
After the sinking, the Missouri River’s shifting course left the wreck buried under 45 feet of mud and silt. Over time, the river moved approximately 800 meters eastward, concealing the site beneath what eventually became a field. Numerous salvage attempts were made over the years, but none were successful in locating the wreck.For 132 years, the Arabia remained hidden until a team led by Bob Hawley rediscovered it in 1988. The excavation revealed an astonishing collection of artifacts remarkably preserved by the mud.
Archaeological Discovery
The excavation took four and a half months and resulted in uncovering what is now considered one of the largest collections of pre-Civil War artifacts in existence. Among the treasures recovered were:
- Glass bottles: Beautifully crafted containers for everyday items such as liquor and ketchup.
- Preserved food: Jars of apples that were still edible after more than a century.
- Clothing and tools: Items that provided insights into daily life during the mid-19th century.
- Weapons: Including rifles that were part of shipments intended for settlers.
These artifacts are now housed in the Arabia Steamboat Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, where they serve as a fascinating glimpse into life during that era.
Fun Facts About the Arabia
- Construction Year: Built in 1853 specifically for navigating difficult river conditions.
- Final Voyage: Sank on September 5, 1856, after hitting a submerged tree snag.
- Survivors: All 150 passengers and crew members escaped safely.
- Excavation Discovery: Rediscovered in 1988 after being buried for over a century.
- Preservation Miracle: Artifacts recovered included jars of apples that remained edible.
Legacy
The story of the Arabia is not just about a shipwreck; it is about preserving history and understanding life during a pivotal time in American expansion. The artifacts recovered offer invaluable insights into daily life in the 1850s and reflect broader themes of migration, survival, and adaptation on the American frontier.Today, visiting the Arabia Steamboat Museum allows individuals to connect with this unique piece of history. The exhibits highlight not only the artifacts but also tell stories of those who traveled on this remarkable vessel. The Arabia stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resilience against nature’s challenges.
