The Steamboat Era Museum is proud to announce the publication of a new book “Steam-Driven:
How Steamboats Shaped the Future of Virginia’s Northern Neck.” The heavily illustrated coffee table book covers the Steamboat Era, the story of the steamer Potomac and the history and restoration of the Potomac Pilothouse. The 88 page hard-covered book is filled with photographs, newspaper articles and personal recollections of the era. There is a pictorial timeline of the restoration of the Pilothouse.

Readers will learn about the Weems family who redesigned their steamers so passengers could travel in luxury and style. Hansford Bayton, an African-American steamboat captain, who ran a successful business despite oppressive Jim Crow laws. The Dameron brothers who bought a small country store that they turned into a landmark. Plus generations of watermen, farmers and regular folks whose lives and livelihoods were enhanced by the advent of steam-driven vessels. These are quintessential American stories. Full of drama and adventure. Both inspiring and heart-breaking. About fortunes made and fortunes lost.

The book was made possible by grants from the River Counties Community Foundation and Chesapeake Bank. It was created and designed by Barbara Brecher, written by Shelly Ford and researched by Candee and Fred Pevahouse and Michael Geissinger.

“Steam-Driven: How Steamboats Shaped the Future of Virginia’s Northern Neck.” will be available exclusively at the Museum’s Holiday Marketplace November 29- 30 and Dec 7, 14 and 21, 10am-4pm and online here beginning November 29. It will cost $34.99.