All Aboard! Boblo Boat Memories Wanted For History Film

DETROIT (WWJ) - If you have fond memories of the Boblo Boat, the SS Columbia Project wants to hear from you.

The group is producing a video oral history of the old steam boat during its time on the Detroit River — and your story could be a part of it.

What are they looking for?

"People who remember their first date, a school trip, what the music was, what the concessions were like," the project's Liz McEnaney explained.

The boat is currently in Toledo, but will eventually be restored and placed back in the water — this time in New York's Hudson River.

"The reason we're looking for stories is New Yorkers don't really have a sense of what it was like to be on this boat. So to hear Detroters talk about their memories, it gives people here in New York a sense of what the experience on Columbia is going to be like," McEnaney said.

"You know, this boat has been such an important part of Detroit's history," she added. "The boat was in service from 1902 to 1991, and even after it's been Detroiters who've kept this boat alive."

Those who have memories of rides on the SS Columbia — the Boblo Boat's formal name — who are interested in participating can email the following information to stories@sscolumbia.org:

• A short description of your story: What are your memories of the boat, or do you have a special connection to it?

• Provide a little background about you

If selected, mark Aug. 1 on your calendar and be prepared to spend about an hour with a film production team.

Learn more about the project, HERE.