SS Columbia

The SS Columbia is a restored steamboat on the Great Lakes with four decks connected by elevators that once carried up to 850 passengers. The vessel featured separate areas for different passenger classes and cargo holds designed to transport goods and railway cars.

The vessel was built in 1880 at a Pennsylvania shipyard and was the first commercial ship to feature an electrical lighting system. This innovation marked a turning point in modernizing ships operating on the Great Lakes.

The vessel shows how people traveled in the late 1800s and the clear divisions between passenger classes that shaped the journey. The way it was designed reflects what travelers expected from comfort and luxury during that era.

Plan to spend adequate time exploring the different decks and areas, as the vessel is large with many details to discover. The presence of elevators makes it easier to access all levels without relying on stairs alone.

Thomas Edison had over 100 light bulbs installed aboard the vessel shortly after leaving his laboratory, marking one of his earliest commercial applications. Choosing this specific ship for the project showed how rapidly new technology was being put into practical use.

Location: Buffalo

GPS coordinates: 42.86088,-78.86231

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:54