Record snowfall sinks famous Pennsylvania river boat

The Becky Thatcher is “beyond repair. It’s a total loss,” said Jeffrey Levin, owner of the historic Ohio River stern wheeler that sank in Western Pennsylvania from the major snowstorm earlier this month.

The heavy snow collapsed the upper two decks onto the bottom deck of the 84-year-old passenger vessel.

According to Levin, even though the boat is not completely submerged, the damage is too extensive to allow for repairs and it will likely have to be dismantled rather than towed.

Built in 1926, the 220-foot vessel was originally used for river surveys. After being retired in 1961, it was retrofitted and served as a restaurant and museum, first in Hannibal, Missouri, then St. Louis and eventually in the Pittsburgh area.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette