Sidney
The Sidney was a stern-wheel wood hull packet built in Murraysville, W. Va. and completed in Wheeling, in 1880. She measured 221.3 x 35.5 x 5.5. Came out in the Wheeling-Cincinnati trade, Capt. William M. List, with Charles D. List, clerk. Originally painted yellow colorful trim. She burst a steam line at Goose Island, Ohio River, March 10, 1882; four died and 16 scalded. Sold to the Diamond Jo Line, Upper Mississippi, and ran St. Louis-St. Paul until bought by Streckfus Line to replace the J.S. which had burned, and was converted into an excursion boat. She was the first commercial boat to enter the newly built Keokuk Lock in 1913, and the G.W. Hill was right behind her. Capt. Roy Streckfus was in command on this occasion, and 600 St. Mary church people were aboard bound for Burlington, Iowa. She was based at New Orleans in winter months and many musicians who later became big-name got their start on her, bringing the popularity of New Orleans jazz to the northern climes. In 1921 she was completely rebuilt at Mound City, Ill., and renamed Washington.
All information obtained from Captain Fred Way's Packet Directory 1848-1983. Copyright 1983 by the Sons and Daughters of Pioneer Rivermen. All Rights Reserved.
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