The Steamboating Forum

Hello from Oregon, everyone. I guess the best way to classify myself is as an "armchair steam enthusiast," meaning I know a great deal about steam engines, but the only two I own are models, and I haven't had much to do with any large enough to do any real work. I'm also a "steamboater wannabe," meaning I at this point have no hull, engine, or boiler, and am neither a machinist or a welder. Still, I know that others have managed to overcome the same obstacles.

I do know that the first thing to do is learn as much as I can from those who are experienced. However, I also need to keep in mind that not all experts agree on everything. The question of whether propane is a suitable fuel for a steam launch comes to mind, and the list goes on. Still, I look forward to future discussions and details to be learned.

--Roger

Roger,

Welcome to the forum!

-Ron

Hi Portland (OR, not ME) from Portland, OR.

There are quite a few hobby steamboaters - both owners and wannabes - in the PacNW. You might want to take a look at the Northwest Steam Society website: http://www.northweststeamsociety.org and consider joining. Over 250 members with probably 100 steamboats and most in the PacNW. Several events/mini-meets during the year. Quarterly newsletter with Members Roster, etc. Can't beat it for $ 20/year. Click on the "application" button to download and/or printout the application.

You can also send me an emial via this website. Inlude your phone number and I'll give you a call.

Ron--
Thank you so much for the welcome. I have in fact already spent quite a bit of time on the NWSS's website, and plan to join soon. You'll probably be hearing from me directly as well.

Thanks again,
--Roger