Historical information

P. S. Marion
Dimensions: 107 ft 11 in X 5 ft 3 in
Tonnage: 157 tons
Built: 1897, at Milang, S. A.
References: Book: "Murray River Paddlesteamers" by D. Wardle. pp.22
Riverboats and Rivermen by W. Drake & M. Page

Significance

Paddlesteamers were a common form of transport along the Murray river in the early 20th century. This photo shows a number of travellers on the boat, judging by their attire, workmen, cook, men in suits and ties as well as a group of people sitting on the bank, possible a woman and children with dog waiting for the boat to depart. There is also a horse drawn wagon with a number of people on and around it that could be waiting to pick up goods (or have unloaded) from the boat. At the back of the boat stacks of wheat bags (?) are visible.

Physical description

Black and white photograph of P. S. Marion moored by a river bank. There is a group of men standing towards the bow and a horse drawn carriage on the bank near the stern. Copy of an original photograph.

Inscriptions & markings

On the front: MARION on the bow of the boat and on the wheelhouse. On reverse, in pen: Marion. where? Stamped in black: National Library of Australia.