Malta Update: Test Drilling
Exciting developments in the search for the Steamboat Malta: testing is continuing at the site…and museum visitors are now able to watch the process unfold live!
We would like to extend a huge thank you to Christa Dubill and our friends at 41 Action News KSHB for sharing the story. Watch the video below to learn more about our progress so far in locating and testing this 1841 fur-trading boat.
Buried Steamboat Malta found in Missouri
On weekends at the museum we will be broadcasting a live feed from the field as the team drills and marks. The goal at this stage is to precisely map the boat’s shape, size, and position. Hopefully, this will make it possible to excavate in the winter of 2016-2017 if all goes according to plan. Stay tuned here for updates.
Today’s work started on an auspicious note as the first drill this morning hit wood (most likely the Malta’s deck, made of hard oak) about 38 feet below ground. We will keep you updated here with information as it comes to light. You can also follow the adventure on social media with the hastag #steamboatsearch
This new chapter would not be possible without the continued support of our fans and visitors through the years. Each time you visit the museum, your ticket and gift shop purchases help to fund the ongoing preservation of the Arabia’s artifacts, as well as the search for unknown treasures. Thank you for helping us to follow our dreams.
If we are able to excavate the Malta, and if its contents are intact, it will greatly expand our understanding of frontier development. Fifteen years older than the Arabia, the Malta could help to complement the Arabia’s story and tell a tale all of its own.