1898: A Paddle Steamer is Launched as Part of a “Pleasing Ceremony” in British Columbia

In the Canadian province of British Columbia, the paddle steamer sternwheeler Moyie was launched at Kootenay Lake in the city of Nelson. This vessel, which was built in prefabricated sections in Toronto, became the newest steamship acquired by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR).

The launch of Moyie was described by the Vancouver-based Daily News Advertiser as a “pleasing ceremony” in which the christening duties were performed by Frances Julia Stump Troup (1860-1938). She was the wife of Captain James William Troup (1855-1931), the superintendent of CPR’s steamship services.

The Daily News Advertiser provided further details about the launch. “Despite the inclemency of the weather, there was a large crowd of spectators, and as the latest addition to the lake fleet glided from the stocks the fact was lustily recorded by the blowing of whistles and vociferous cheering,” reported this newspaper. “When the Moyie took the water, she was ready for service, her machinery being in position and full steam up.” The Daily News Advertiser also noted, “The Moyie is one of the finest steamers on the lakes . . . The vessel is a most commodious one, with steel hull and has all the modern conveniences.”

These conveniences included a spacious and elegant dining saloon and high-quality overnight cabins for passengers. Along with being a key maritime connection for CPR in that region of Canada, Moyie quickly established herself as the premier vessel on Kootenay Lake. She remained in operation for nearly six decades and was used extensively for not only transporting passengers on pleasure cruises but also towing barges; and delivering coal, lumber, and other supplies.

The final excursion of Moyie took place on April 27, 1957. “A romantic era in Western Canada is ending with the sternwheeler Moyie’s last run on British Columbia’s Kootenay Lake,” stated that day’s edition of the Toronto-based Evening Tribune. During this poignant trip of 87 miles (140 kilometers) along various lakeside communities, Moyie was honored with everything from farewell banners to at least one rendition of Auld Lang Syne.

Moyie can be seen today on a concrete berth at the end of Front Street in Kaslo, a village on the western shore of Kootenay Lake. She holds the record as the world’s oldest existing sternwheeler. Moyie was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1958. (The accompanying photo of this vessel was taken in 1898.)

Photo Credit: Public Domain

For more information on Moyie, please check out https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moyie_(sternwheeler)