A fascinating print of this famous steamship paddlewheeler, Grand Republic.  The print was framed and sealed on the back so no way to investigate any further than what is seen.  The glass is reflecting our overhead lights unfortunately.  From a distance you can see slight foxing and the detail of the bow shows a wrinkle in the paper.  However, this is a very striking subject with great details in the water and the ship herself showing a full complement of passengers in period dress appropriate for 1876-77. 

This Paddle Wheeler was the last of the ships built in Shousetown, PA in 1867 and the largest of the steamboats built there.  She was originally named "Great Republic".   In 1876 the boat was repaired and renovated towards making her one of the most grand of the Floating Palaces on the Mississippi and Ohio.  We have found photographs online showing the central main salon that featured Brussels Carpet and Oil Lamp chandeliers.  Guest cabin doors opened off of the salon.  After the renovations were complete she was re-launched under a new name, "Grand Republic".  Disaster struck on September 9th, 1877 in St Louis when she caught fire and burned.  Another steamboat tied up alongside her also caught fire but was able to be restored.  The Grand Republic was not restorable.  In her brief history, she was one of the steamships that carried spectators who watched the famous Robert E Lee vs Natches race. 

Type: Side-wheeler   Size:  350' x 51' x 9.5'
Power: Compound engines 29's, 56's  10 Ft.   6 Boilers

Size ................ 20.75" Tall x 35" Wide
Circa .................. 1880's?
Price ................... $235
SOLD,  January 2012