21/01/2011 7:58 pm
Better luck next time
Too bad for St. Louis Marine that the firemen were so quick and efficient. They might want to remember that usually buildings burn and boats sink... I'm glad the reporter pointed out that these owners have been unsuccessful in selling the ADMIRAL remains, which of course are just upriver from the hull of the RIVER QUEEN, which sank successfully in 1967.
22/01/2011 1:36 am
At 1630 today there was little evidence of the fire as viewed from the Metrolink (light rail) crossing the Eads Bridge. I have no idea of any internal damage.
If the fire was in a vent from the (6 Flags Installed) Kitchen it appears to have been contained within the vent system, guessing about maybe 10 feet of duct from range hood to roof of (6 Flags built HVAC) housing.
22/01/2011 3:03 pm
At 0815 Saturday 22 January I drove to Wharf St. to take a look. All was quiet, no visible activity on the Admiral although there were several automobiles under the canopy. A wheeled scrap metal company trailer was there, contents not visible.
Black around a portion of the roof of the Mechanical Equipment housing but no other visible signs of damage.
Lots of ice flowing. Ambient temperature 24 degrees at time of visit.
22/01/2011 6:20 pm
Scrap metal company? Are they scrapping out the Admiral, or just doing remodeling?
22/01/2011 6:53 pm
The Casino company who last owned her sold her several months ago. The current owners put her up for sale on ebay. No bids met the reserve. Conventional wisdom---unless someone who has very, very deep pockets bellies up to the bar with cash on the line--she will be scrapped.
A sad end, but probably more merciful than what appears to be happening to her smaller cousin (President).
08/02/2011 5:22 pm
Tidbits from St Louis
About a dozen men onboard the "Admiral" Monday afternoon, but mighty quiet.....didn't appear to be much work taking place. One fellow onboard told me the boat was being scrapped. I sought to go aboard but was denied.
On a much brighter note, I was privileged to hear Captain Hawley's delightful discussion of the history of inland river excursion boating, presented at the annual convention of the Passenger Vessel Association.