The Pageant of the Packets

By Garnett Laidlaw Eskew

Book Overview

"The Pageant of the Packets" is a sweeping and evocative chronicle of the golden age of American steamboating. Written with a deep appreciation for river lore, Garnett Laidlaw Eskew explores the rise and eventual decline of the packet ships that served as the lifeblood of the United States' internal waterways, most notably the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. The work details the technological marvels of the steam engines, the architectural splendor of the "floating palaces," and the vital economic role these vessels played in the expansion and connectivity of the American South and West during the 19th century.

Through vibrant prose, the book captures the unique culture of the rivermen, from the legendary pilots to the deckhands, and narrates the high-stakes races and inherent dangers that defined life on the water. Eskew provides a comprehensive look at how these ships facilitated trade, travel, and social exchange before the widespread dominance of the railroads. "The Pageant of the Packets" serves as both an authoritative historical record and a tribute to a bygone era of maritime adventure, making it an essential read for those interested in American history, transportation, and the enduring legacy of the great riverboats.

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• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1025892690
• ISBN13: 9781025892696
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 354 Pages
• Weight: 1.09 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.1" x 9.2"