William M. Black Dredge Boat

Explore the William M. Black dredge boat, built and commissioned in 1934 for the Army Corps of Engineers. The boat is open seasonally and is weather dependent; however, when available, guests are invited to tour portions of the engine room, boiler room, crew quarters, and pilot house. 

Fun fact: The paddlewheel in front of the Mississippi River Center is from the William M. Black.

Check out this footage of the William M. Black in operation from 1952! It was graciously provided to the Museum & Aquarium courtesy of the Growney Family.

Learn a bit more about how the dredge worked!