The Fireboat

The Indians referred to them as "fireboats." In fact, these paddleboats plied the Missouri to carry people and supplies to the village and settlements along the riverbanks. The Missouri was a difficult river to navigate because of fallen trees, rapids and, occasionally, a crossing buffalo herd. But shallow-draft paddleboats ventured as far north as Fort Benton, Montana. The wary Indians watch the "fireboat" from high above. They are in awe of its smoking and churning and wondered what it held for their future.