Disasters Experienced by the Howard's - a 55th Fire Anniversary Special Event

The Howard Steamboat Museum is pleased to present an engaging and informative illustrated talk by Christina DeMent-Pfau and Jen Weidner titled “Disasters Experienced by the Howards” on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in the Carriage House Event Center at the Howard Steamboat Museum.

This special program is scheduled to coincide with the 55th anniversary of the devastating fire that nearly destroyed the museum. The presentation will begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. and conclude at 8:00 p.m. (EDT).

The talk will explore the many disasters faced by the Howard family and their iconic mansion, including floods that repeatedly threatened the property, the catastrophic 1937 flood that inundated the mansion’s first floor, and the fire that almost claimed the structure entirely. More than just a museum, the mansion stands as a superdreadnought of survival, preserving the story of the three-generation, world-famous Howard steamboat-building family, their legacy, and the lore of the Great Steamboat Era.

Both speakers are well-known local historians with extensive experience in preservation and public presentation. Most recently, they delivered well-received programs on the mansion’s architecture and the history of the women of the Howard family. The museum is delighted to welcome them back as a team for this immersive look at the trials the family overcame to safeguard this stately edifice.