The Belle of Louisville was built in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1914, and was originally called the Idlewild. The Belle is recognized as the oldest working steamboat in existence. Only six steam-powered riverboats still operate in America today. She has been named a National Historic Landmark by the United States Department of Interior.
The Belle is able to travel on virtually every navigable waterway. She only draws 5 feet of water, and is protected by a well built frame and steel hull. The paddlewheel is made of white oak and steel and weighs 17.5 tons.
