Chapter 1
  Introduction
Chapter 2
  History
Chapter 3
  Hypotheses
Chapter 4
  Prior Research
Chapter 5
  Methodology
Chapter 6
  Findings
Chapter 7
  Interpretations
Chapter 8
  Conclusion & Recommendations

References Cited

The purpose of this thesis is to analyze the hull construction and propulsion system of the steamboat Maple Leaf in the context of mid-nineteenth century Great Lakes steamboat construction. Research utilizes contemporary historical sources to create a series of hypotheses pertaining to nineteenth century steamboat construction on the Great Lakes and site formation processes affecting the vessel after it sank.
Archaeological data were collected over three years to examine ship construction and the site’s condition. In service, the vessel experienced many changes due to use, breakdowns, and modifications. After sinking, salvage, demolition, and natural deterioration impacted the wreck. The result is a complex archaeological site hampered by poor working conditions.
The guiding hypotheses are tested against the archaeological data. Known ship building techniques are compared against those observed on the Maple Leaf to identify previously unknown techniques. The well-preserved wreck is intact from the main deck to the lower hull. Deck arrangements and space utilization in the lower hull are typical of steamboats from the 1850's. However, the hull’s longitudinal reinforcing system and several engineering features are not found in historical sources. Comparing historical and archaeological data on the Maple Leaf revealed several unknown construction details and provides a model for future steamboat investigations.

I would like to thank Keith Holland, Lee Manley, William N. Still, James Miller, Brad Rodgers, Larry Babits, Steve Sellers, Richard Stephenson, James Valle, and Gordon Watts for their efforts to make the investigation of the Maple Leaf a success. Special thanks to all the volunteers of St Johns Archaeological Expeditions and the students of the Maritime History Program’s summer field schools. Thanks also to Martin Peebles, Tom Parham, James Collie, Dan Rhodes and Tracy Warren for preparing the interpretive illustrations of the Maple Leaf site. The Department of the Army, Center of Military History and the Jacksonville Museum of Science and History shared their expertise and advice. This investigation was sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State and The Jacksonville Historical Society.

Frank J. Cantelas
October 1995