From the Archives - Oct. 5, 2023
This photo of the Alberta (formerly State of Idaho) was taken in 1903. It shows the sternwheeler passing through the Kootenai Valley Railway Bridge across the Kootenai River just east of Galena Landing.
(Photo courtesy BOUNDARY COUNTY MUSEUM)
Recently, Michael A. Cone, author of "Connecting the Kootenays," visited the museum. His book "chronicles the history of the Kootenay Lake ferry service from its modest beginnings in 1921 through to its 100th anniversary in 2020." The book contains many photographs and historical information on the navigation of the lake.
Michael Cone came to the museum to expand his research of steamers on the Kootenai River. The staff was able to give him information, along with photos of the different sternwheelers and Galena Landing (site of Search and Rescue dock).
He really enjoyed this photo of the Alberta (formerly state of Idaho) taken in 1903. It shows the sternwheeler passing through the Kootenai Valley Railway Bridge across the Kootenai River just east of Galena Landing. The center trestle of the bridge swiveled allowing traffic to pass.
Cone donated a copy of his book to the museum collection. It is available to look at in the reading area of the museum.
The Boundary County Historical Society and Museum, 7229 Main, Bonners Ferry, sponsors this column.
Visit the museum Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and you can visit the website at www.boundarycountymuseum.org or the museum’s Facebook page for historical photos and stories, and to see upcoming events. The museum can also be reached at doyouremember@meadowcrk.com or by telephone at 208-267-7720.