By Historical Society

Riverboats – Part of Prince Albert History

Jun 2, 2011 | 7:15 PM

The North Saskatchewan River is a key part of the Prince Albert image. What is now a quiet scene was once a bustling highway for river traffic connecting Prince Albert to the rest of Canada.

In the early days of trade, riverboats dominated the river.

These large steamers with their iconic paddlewheels in the rear were used to transport food and people up and down the rivers. The largest of these boats, the “Marquis” was 201 feet (61 meters) long and could accommodate 80 passengers.

This boat was built at Winnipeg in 1882 and for 5 years made its way up and down the North and South Saskatchewan Rivers. In 1887 it was beached at Cumberland House after being unsuccessfully repaired.

In 1890, it came to Prince Albert and was beached at 8th Ave and River Street. Here it was used as a dance salon before being dismantled by William McKay for lumber to build a house.

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Although the riverboats had a short run in Prince Albert, making their last appearance in 1918.

They live on in the models and artifacts on display at the Historical Museum along with the complete history and impact of the riverboats on Prince Albert.