Following a brief discussion of early navigation on the Minnesota River by voyageurs and explorers, this article focuses on the use of steamboats fro pleasure and commerce along the river during the nineteenth century. The earliest trips are described, and the role of steamboats in supporting early settlement of the valley is highlighted. Steamboat traffic from 1852 through 1871 is detailed, including boat names, destinations and purposes, while factors contributing to its demise by the end of the century are asserted.
