Barlow Cumberland
A Century of Sail and Steam on the Niagara River
"A Century of Sail and Steam on the Niagara River" by Barlow Cumberland is a historical account published in the early 20th century. The book focuses exclusively on the vessels and steamers that operated on the Niagara River over the past century, highlighting the evolution from sailing vessels to steam-powered transportation, and discusses the competitive landscape of navigation in that region. At the start of the book, the author introduces the significant historical context of the Niagara River as a crucial transportation route for both Indigenous peoples and European explorers. The narrative begins with early voyages by Indigenous peoples and French explorers, emphasizing the construction of the "Griffon," the first European-built vessel to navigate the upper waters. This sets the stage for a rich exploration of the river's maritime history, including the development of steam-powered boats and the shifts in trade and travel that occurred as steam technology evolved, ultimately leading to the decline of the river's significance with the advent of railroads. The opening portion establishes a groundwork for understanding how the Niagara River served as a pivotal site for transportation and commerce in Canada and beyond.