Gasconade Boatyard: A Relic of River Engineering

Nestled on the banks of the Missouri River near Morrison, Missouri, the Gasconade Boatyard stands as a reminder of a bygone era of river engineering and navigation. Established in 1892, the boatyard was initially leased by the Missouri River Commission to build and repair vessels used for Missouri River improvements. The U.S. government purchased the land in 1910 and expanded it in 1929 as operations grew.For over 80 years, the Gasconade Boatyard was a hive of activity, employing hundreds of workers who constructed towboats, barges, and other vessels essential for maintaining and improving river navigation. The boatyard was especially busy during and after World War II. Some of the notable vessels built here include the twin steam sternwheel towboats Suter and Bixby.However, as the Missouri River navigation projects were completed, the boatyard's importance gradually declined. By 1966, only 35 people were employed there, and the boatyard closed in June 1972. Today, the site serves as a historical landmark, offering a glimpse into the region's rich river history.