Paddle Steamers: The History of the Humber Ferry

While the image of a paddle steamer conjures thoughts of the mighty Mississippi in the minds of most, few realize that this 19th Century staple had actually served to transport travelers across the Atlantic Ocean as early as 1838. While faster, more modern methods of travel made paddle steamers virtually obsolete on the open waters, these remarkable boats continued to function in comfortable capacity as ferries, coastal, and river cruisers. In this nostalgic documentary, filmmakers draw upon vintage photographs, slides, and film clips to present a detailed history of the paddle steamer.