Working Steamers

Steamboats were not only used on the Chesapeake Bay for carrying passengers and freight, but also for many different tasks. The Menhaden industry boomed in the early 20's and 30's and made Reedville, VA. one of the richest per capita towns in the U.S. The heart of the fleet was the coal powered steamboats. Click on the link below and find out more about how steam and pure muscle power worked together to create this profitable business.

Menhaden Fishing Steamboat Fleet