Topic starter
28/08/2008 7:28 pm
Does anyone have any information on a sternwheel towboat LAURA J??
We saw this boat near the Marietta Landing on one of the DELTA QUEEN's recent visits to that great city.
28/08/2008 10:50 pm
I believe the LAURA J is owned by Charles Jones, and is still used for some light-duty (or shallow water) work by Madison Coal. It was built in 1929 by Dravo and has a 74' x 19' hull. Originally named the NEMACOLIN, owned by the U.S. Engineers. Powered by a GM6-71 diesel engine. It's a nice authentic oldie. One of my favorites.
28/08/2008 10:54 pm
I can tell you she is named after Laura Jones (daughter of Charlie Jones, sister of Nelson Jones, no relation to me - though I'd certainly be proud to be a West Virginia Jones), and the Laura J appears in the lyrics of The P.A. Denny Song...
"The city lights of Charleston
are twinkling 'round the bend;
the calliope is playing now
and soon I'll see my friends.
Momma Jean, Henny Cook,
Princess Margy, Laura J;
There's none can beat the Denny
On that great Regatta day!"
02/09/2008 3:31 am
Anybody want a set of plans for the original Nemacolin? I've got 'em. $18 bucks, post paid.