History of Early Steamboat Navigation on the Missouri River, Volume 1 (of 2) Life and Adventures of Joseph La Barge

"History of Early Steamboat Navigation on the Missouri River, Volume 1 (of 2)" by Hiram Martin Chittenden is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work dives into the legacy of steamboat navigation on the Missouri River, particularly focusing on the life and adventures of Captain Joseph La Barge, a significant figure associated with the commerce along the river. The book intricately details how steamboat navigation was vital to the development of the American West. At the start of this volume, the author sets the stage for the narrative by recounting how he met Captain La Barge in 1896 and was inspired to capture his rich history for posterity. The opening chapters present La Barge's ancestry, early childhood, and his initial experiences with the fur trade, emphasizing his adventurous spirit and connection to the Missouri River. The text highlights the challenges faced by La Barge as he began his career, laying the groundwork for a captivating exploration of the river's role in shaping the region's history, economy, and the intriguing life of this pioneer navigator. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Hiram Martin Chittenden was an American engineer and historian. A graduate of West Point, he was the Seattle district engineer for the Army Corps of Engineers from 1906 to 1908). Chittenden was one of the first three elected Port Commissioners at the Port of Seattle. He also helped found the Pacific Coast Association of Port Authorities, later known as the Association of Pacific Ports in 1913. The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle are named in his honor.