Arabia Historical Marker
As summer crops cover the fields, it is not the best season for steamboat hunting. The search for the Malta continues, though, and any updates will be shared right here on Missouri Explorer.
Meanwhile, the Steamboat Arabia recently received some new recognition. The City of Parkville, MO dedicated a permanent historical marker commemorating the site of the Arabia’s sinking. Now there is a scenic location for visitors to contemplate the Arabia’s final resting.
The Hawley family, excavators of the Arabia, with the new historical marker
We would like to thank Parkville Mayor Nan Johnston, Parks & Recreation Director Brian Nowotny, along with other city and Platte County officials who helped to make this vision a reality.
Mayor Johnston discusses the importance of the Arabia in Parkville history
When the Arabia sank in 1856, about eight miles upstream from Kansas City, the passengers were able to get to shore and spend the night in a hotel in Parkville. The marker’s location on the riverfront trail at English Landing Park is a reminder that steamboats were important to the founding and development of this historic community.
Location of the Arabia Historical Marker
From the Arabia Steamboat Museum:
- Take 5th Street to US-169 N
- Take MO-9 N (Riverside)
- English Landing Park will be on your left.
- Go east on the walking trail about 1/2 mile until you find the marker.
- Enjoy! Post pictures on the Arabia’s Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. In the description, type #ArabiaKC.