An endangered treasure: Since 1991 the Columbia has been laid up afloat at an industrial facility on the outskirts of Detroit, Mich., with minimal maintenance. The vessel was shrink-wrapped to protect it against the elements in 2005. The shrink-wrap has suffered some minor failures but is basically intact. During the long period of neglect the four basic components of the Columbia’s structure – her hull, superstructure, boilers, and engine – have weathered differently and were thoroughly evaluated during feasibility studies sponsored by the National Park Service and the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy:

The riveted steel hull – Very Good – The Columbia’s hull has benefited from being laid up in fresh water. Some replating, repairs, and removal of superficial rust will be necessary, but the hull is basically sound and does not leak.

The superstructure – Poor – The 27,000-square-foot predominantly wood and canvas superstructure has suffered significant deterioration. The painted canvas waterproofing of the top deck – referred to traditionally as the “hurricane deck” or (the “roof” of the vessel) – failed, permitting rainwater and snowmelt to leak through. Consequently, rainwater, snowmelt and ice worked their way downward through the four decks. Thus, the superstructure, which contains more than 80 percent of the visitable space and the bulk of the historic interiors have suffered severe damage. Of particular concern is the deterioration of the paneled bulkheads (walls) that define the deckhouses containing the major public spaces with their rare steamboat palace décor and the deterioration of the grand staircase and the auxiliary stairs that provide access to the upper and lower decks.

The Engine – Excellent – Fortunately the Columbia’s amazing antique 1,200-horsepower triple-expansion steam engine was properly laid up when the vessel left service and, as a consequence, is in very good condition and was actually turned over by hand during a survey of the vessel in 2005.

The Boilers – Poor – The Columbia’s original boilers had their pressure reduced in the postwar period and suffered damage due to rainwater running down the stack. As that the boiler room is inaccessible to the public with no clear access, the SSCP plans to replace the boilers with a modern package system that will allow for adaptation to bio-diesel fuels.

Summary: At age 105 the Columbia is basically intact – although battered – and is an astonishing survivor. Her hull and engine are in very good condition; whereas her superstructure will require major restoration and her boilers will be replaced. We are fortunate that she survives in a restorable state and that we have access to the bulk of her original blueprints to guide our restoration.

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