Preserving a Showboat's Legacy | Saving the Treasures of the Goldenrod

Preserving a Showboat's Legacy | Saving the Treasures of the Goldenrod

In this video, we explore the fascinating and tumultuous history of the Goldenrod, the largest showboat ever to roam the Mississippi River. From 1901 to 1937, this legendary vessel traveled through 15 states, weathering perils such as fires, foreclosures, and crashes while captivating audiences along its journey. Jake Medford, our guide and longtime caretaker, shares the incredible story of how the Goldenrod, once a beacon of entertainment, eventually fell into decline—condensed today to little more than a couple of storage sheds.

After its heyday, the City of St. Charles purchased the boat in 1989, but mounting repair costs led to its closure within a few short years. The St. Louis-based Historic River Boat Preservation Association later sent it to Illinois, where Jake began his efforts to restore the showboat to its former glory. However, in 2014, a move gone wrong left the hull irreparably damaged, prompting the disassembly of the vessel with hopes of eventual restoration. The saga took an even more mysterious turn in 2017 when the boat unexpectedly caught fire—rumors suggest a fireworks accident, though the true cause remains unknown. Despite these setbacks, keeping the story of the Goldenrod alive is more important than ever, serving as a testament to America’s rich river heritage. @whoelseloveshistory

#history #mississippiriver #showboat #steamboat #stlouis #keepinghistory #historicpreservation