Scrapbook for River Barge the Ohio River Tour
October 23 - 30, 2003
The River Barge the Ohio River Tour, October 23 - 30, 2003, is now complete. Enjoy the picture journey and the WOW experience of tour members.
| The riverbarge offers its passengers (bargemates) the chance
to see America differently - from the inside. The R/B River
Explorer travels America's rivers and inland waterways, allowing guests
to immerse themselves in the culture and heritage of nearby towns and cities
in a safe, relaxed and comfortable setting. A family atmosphere
prevails during the excursion as travelers are welcomed aboard as guests and
depart as part of the River Barge Family.
R/B River Explorer Description: Built: 1998 Size: made of 2 Barges (each 295 feet long and 50 feet
wide) tied
Lots of interesting activity on the river and its never far
away. The banks of the river still held a touch of fall color. |
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| The Lock sequence was very interesting and educational to
watch. We were so close, we felt involved in the operation. |
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| Entering the lock at river level, the lock gate begins
closing. |
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| We are in the lock, the gates are closed behind us and the
gates are still closed in front of us. Soon the waters begin to churn
under us and the lock begins to empty out, lowering the barge. |
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| The water inside the lock is now equal level to the river
water in front of us. The gates ahead begin opening until they have
completely opened and we can progress down river. Amazing!! Periodic
port stops allowed us to learn the local culture and story. Ripley,
OH, situated along the Ohio River across from Kentucky, became the first
stop for many run-away slaves, the first stop toward freedom, the first stop
on the Underground Railroad. |
Main Street of Ripley (OH) along the river where residents often took in run-away slaves. |
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Many Ripley residents risked their lives to become a way-station along the Underground Railroad route. Such was the John Parker House, home of a black freeman, and the Rankin House on the hill with its lantern in the windows each night. |
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| We learned of the beauty and natural resources on shore
visits. The crystal clear water, the New River arch bridge across the
gorge among the fall colors, the grist mill of yesteryear, the West Virginia
capital and resource of coal reminded us of both the past and a peek into
the future. Beside transiting the locks and beside the sights and learnings of the port stops, activities abounded onboard -- |
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| ... hear actress "Eliza" tell her story of runaway, meet the
author, listen to local mountain music with guitar, fiddle and tub, and a
few group meetings for our group to learn to know each other better... |
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Following is a portion of a poem written by Rhoda Mellinger in response to this tour: |
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River Barging Days We set off for river barging One October day, It was a first time offer From Mennonite Your Way. We boarded the River Explorer Had time to settle in, With all the joys ahead There seemed so much to win! We found our rooms delightful The food especially great, the crew extremely friendly So we voted all first rate. We shared in times of worship Heard mountain music, too, Enjoyed relaxing moments Which all were glad to do. The days passed by too quickly And we finished our great tour, But we cherished all the memories That will bless us o'er and o'er. by Rhoda Mellinger October 2003 |
TOUR MEMBERS SAID…
"There were more
activities than I had anticipated, but that was good...I didn't feel obligated
to participate, although I don't think I missed much. It was nice mingling with
"outsiders" on the barge, but I truly enjoyed those who were part of our group
and our times of sharing together."
Kay (PA)
"These tours are very educational. Also liked the relaxation of staying in
the same room. The men enjoyed the mechanical aspects of the barge. A
wonderful way to celebrate our anniversary."
George & Ave
Lee (PA)
"Can't imagine any other vacation trip that could offer the friendship we
experienced here. It seemed like we were all home-town folks coming together
for a great experience on the river."
Myrna (CO)
"It was just super start to finish."
Betty (VA)
"The scenery was great, the service outstanding."
Melvin (DE)
"A relaxing time for us - no cooking, no cleaning up. Informative and
pleasurable, but too short."
Vi & Roy (PA)
"The church service was very meaningful. Thank you for making us welcome into
the MYW tour since we joined the tour in Cincinnati. We would do it again."
Herb & Carol
(OH)
"From the Pilot House, I felt like I was piloting the barge. Very scenic,
loved the beautiful leaves. The Barge ride exceded my expectation. The rooms
were nice with big windows. I loved the freedom we had to just relax or talk
with others on the barge."
Edna (MD)
"We had a great balance between free time and planned activities, especially
enjoyed the history of the area."
Willie &
Rhoda (PA)
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