Treasures of the Steamboat Arabia- Where Else But in the Middle of a Field!
We were in the Midwest recently and came across this amazing museum sitting in the heart of Kansas City on the Missouri River. The Steamboat Arabia had been recovered in a field (yes... you heard me) and all of its treasures placed in a museum for all to enjoy.
In 1856, the Arabia set out bringing adventuresome settlers and goods to the west. Loaded with over 200 tons of supplies, the Steamboat navigated the Missouri River... known to be “too thick to drink and too thin to plow.” The Arabia suffered the fate of about 400 other steamboats and was lost to the River. Fortunately all passengers survived and the only casualty was a lone mule.
Fast forward over 130 years when David Hawley, his sons and friends decided to find the Arabia and recover its treasures. Through research and true grit the steamboat was found. Equipment was brought in for the excavation and pumps to remove ground water. 20,000 gallons of water per minute was removed from the surrounding areas. The adventure took several years and the family is still working on preserving the goods that were found.
The museum is located in a building in the Historic Market Area of Kansas City. When you go, you’ll see tools very similar to the ones we use today.... dishware that could be sitting on the shelves of Bloomingdales...glass beads, and other supplies settlers and merchants were waiting for.
It began with a Dream.... Built with research and knowledge.... and nurtured by the support of family and friends.
Sounds like a recipe for finding our own “Steamboat Arabia”
Treasures of the Steamboat Arabia
400 Grand Blvd
Kansas City MO
816-471-1856
