Dixie Boat Undergoing Major Repairs, Receives Matching Funds
March 30, 2025 at 5:47 p.m.
NORTH WEBSTER The Dixie Sternwheeler, Indiana's oldest sternwheel boat, has been cruising Webster Lake since 1929 and is preparing for its 96th season in 2025.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this historic vessel has been creating lifelong memories for family and friends for nearly a century, according to a provided news release.
The Dixie welcomes over 11,000 passengers annually, offering regular tours and hosting special events such as weddings, birthdays and company gatherings. Its presence contributes to the local economy of North Webster and the surrounding county. The Dixie continues to attract tourists and special event attendees from across the state and nation, local businesses in North Webster, including accommodations, restaurants, and retail shops, experience a significant boost in traffic and revenue, embodying the principle that “a rising tide lifts all boats.”
The Dixie is currently undergoing major repairs, with an estimated remaining cost of $30,000. To support this effort, Sterling Contracting, a concrete and industrial commercial contractor in northern Indiana, has offered to match donations up to $15,000 through the end of April 2025. By supporting this initiative, contributors can help preserve a piece of Indiana's maritime history and ensure The Dixie continues to offer scenic tours of Webster Lake for future generations, the release states.
Bob Dailey, president of the Dixie's board of directors, said the boat is receiving both general and structural updates to ensure continued safety and enjoyment for passengers. The goal is to complete all repairs and be ready to welcome aboard passengers by May 23.
Contributions to the restoration project will be matched dollarfordollar by Sterling Contracting, up to the $15,000 limit, through the end of April. Donors can support this fundraising effort through the following methods:
● Website:
www.ridethedixie.com
● Venmo: @thedixie
● Mail: P.O. Box 674, North Webster, IN 46555
For more information about The Dixie, contact the Dixie at [email protected].
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NORTH WEBSTER The Dixie Sternwheeler, Indiana's oldest sternwheel boat, has been cruising Webster Lake since 1929 and is preparing for its 96th season in 2025.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this historic vessel has been creating lifelong memories for family and friends for nearly a century, according to a provided news release.
The Dixie welcomes over 11,000 passengers annually, offering regular tours and hosting special events such as weddings, birthdays and company gatherings. Its presence contributes to the local economy of North Webster and the surrounding county. The Dixie continues to attract tourists and special event attendees from across the state and nation, local businesses in North Webster, including accommodations, restaurants, and retail shops, experience a significant boost in traffic and revenue, embodying the principle that “a rising tide lifts all boats.”
The Dixie is currently undergoing major repairs, with an estimated remaining cost of $30,000. To support this effort, Sterling Contracting, a concrete and industrial commercial contractor in northern Indiana, has offered to match donations up to $15,000 through the end of April 2025. By supporting this initiative, contributors can help preserve a piece of Indiana's maritime history and ensure The Dixie continues to offer scenic tours of Webster Lake for future generations, the release states.
Bob Dailey, president of the Dixie's board of directors, said the boat is receiving both general and structural updates to ensure continued safety and enjoyment for passengers. The goal is to complete all repairs and be ready to welcome aboard passengers by May 23.
Contributions to the restoration project will be matched dollarfordollar by Sterling Contracting, up to the $15,000 limit, through the end of April. Donors can support this fundraising effort through the following methods:
● Website:
www.ridethedixie.com
● Venmo: @thedixie
● Mail: P.O. Box 674, North Webster, IN 46555
For more information about The Dixie, contact the Dixie at [email protected].