The Ohio River Trade, 1788-1830

"The Ohio River Trade, 1788-1830" by Hazel Yearsley Shaw is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work examines the evolution of trade along the Ohio River, detailing the various types of boats used, the goods transported, and the impact of commerce on the development of towns in the region during a transformative period in American history. The opening of this thesis introduces readers to the significance of the Ohio River as a vital artery for immigration and trade during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It begins with a discussion about the initial forms of rivercraft, starting with the inadequate Indian canoe and progressing to various boats, including pirogues, flatboats, and barges. The author emphasizes the improvisational nature of these vessels and the adventurous spirit of the boatmen who navigated dangerous waters and conducted trade among fledgling settlements, setting the stage for the Ohio River's important role in the economic growth of the American West. Shaw's detailed descriptions highlight the challenges faced by early river traders and the gradual improvements in navigation techniques that characterized this period.