A forgotten World War II mission. A convoy of steamboats. A deadly Atlantic showdown.
Steamboats vs. U-Boats uncovers one of the most extraordinary, overlooked stories of World War II: the saga of eight American coastal steamboats—designed for bays and rivers, not open oceans—that were requisitioned, armed, and sent across the Atlantic into deadly U-boat waters in 1942. What followed was a harrowing crossing marked by torpedo attacks, mechanical failures, daring evasions, and tragic losses.
With vivid detail and deep research, maritime historian Jack Shaum brings to life the men, ships, and decisions that shaped this high-stakes episode of World War II. It’s a story of improvisation, bravery, and survival—when the comforts of the steamboat era collided with the brutal reality of global war.
“A gripping story of a previously little-known aspect of World War II….anyone with an interest in steamboats, naval history, or World War II will enjoy reading Jack’s newest contribution.”
—Dr. Ralph E. Eshelman, Former Director, Calvert Marine Museum
About the Author
Jack Shaum is a retired print and broadcast journalist. He is the author of 122 Years on The Old Bay Line (2022); Lost Chester River Steamboats: From Chestertown to Baltimore (2015); and co-author with William H. Flayhart III of Majesty at Sea (1981). He was co-editor with Edwin L. Dunbaugh of Night Boat on the Potomac (1996) by Harry Jones. He is a past editor-in-chief of the Steamship Historical Society’s quarterly journals. He is the recipient of the Jay Allen Award for Editorial Service to the Steamship Historical Society of America, and a former lecturer on small east coast cruise ships. He lives near Chestertown, Maryland.
