Flooding River Reminds of Homeward Journey During the Catastrophic Flood of 1997
In the heart of the Midwest, the Ohio River has been a constant presence for Captain Don Sanders. From his early days as a river rat to his long career as a steamboatman, Sanders' adventures on the river span an impressive 65 years. Now, his captivating story is available in his new book, "The River: River Rat to Steamboatman, Riding 'Magic River Spell' to 65-Year Adventure."
The book, a 264-page hardback filled with riveting storytelling and hundreds of pictures from Sanders' collection, is now available for purchase.
Sanders, a columnist for the NKyTribune, shares his stories of growing up in Covington and his experiences on the river. His tales range from his time with the Delta Queen Steamboat Company and Rising Star Casino to his memories aboard the Steamer BELLE OF LOUISVILLE, which he passed during the rain on his way home in 1997.
One of the most memorable events in Sanders' career was the Great Flood of 1997. The flood, an anomaly that caused significant damage, was caused by a massive amount of water from the Gulf of Mexico forming an atmospheric river and surging northeastward. The Ohio River flooding in 1997 was particularly severe, with the river rising faster than during the record high water episode of 1937.
New homeowners, several miles inland from the Ohio River, unexpectedly found themselves in deep water during the 1997 Flood. The flood crested at 64.7 feet on the Cincinnati gauge, lower than the all-time historic recording of 79.9 feet during the '37 Flood. Despite this, the flood caused considerable damage, particularly when nearly 1,000 miles of water accumulated while attempting to drain into the Mississippi River just 40 miles below Metropolis during the 1997 Flood.
One of the most infamous incidents during the 1997 Flood was the collision of the AMERICA and the UNITED STATES. This unfortunate event was due to a misunderstanding by Captain Napoleon P. Jenkins, who was relieving the regular pilot, Captain Charles Dufour. After the disaster, the UNITED STATES was rebuilt, and the wreck of the AMERICA remained visible until at least 1895, with relic hunters finding souvenirs from the wreck.
As for Sanders, on March 1, 1997, he was on his way home to Metropolis, Illinois, after finishing his rotation as Senior Captain aboard the GRAND VICTORIA II. His planned stop was at his brother's estate overlooking the Ohio River above Warsaw, Kentucky, but rain cancelled any gardening plans.
Despite the challenges he faced during the 1997 Flood, Sanders' spirit of adventure and love for the river remain undiminished. Today, he continues to share his stories and experiences, reminding us all of the magic and power of the mighty Ohio River.
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