Currier and Ives

The time is June 30, 1870.  The place is New Orleans.  The Steamboat Robert E.
Lee and the Steamboat Natches VI  leave New Orleans at 4:55 pm.
Their destination is St. Louis, Missouri.
 The Great Mississippi River Steamboat Race is on!

History tells us that the Robert E. Lee arrived in St. Louis on July 4, 1870 at
11:25am, setting a new speed record.  The Natches VI arrived in St. Louis
July 4, 1870 at 5:58pm.
 (Barges were used for refueling both Boats.  No stops were made.)
The Robert E. Lee won the race, it is reported,  because it's Captain refused
passengers and off-loaded all heavy items prior to the race.
The Natches Captain made no such adjustments.