[R. Dale Flick]

Steamboating colleagues:
Fascinating postings/thread on the DELTA QUEEN's hull etc. I pulled out the file boxes here containing folders of papers, plans on the 'Cost of Building Str. DELTA QUEEN at Shipyard, Stockton from April 30 to July 2, 1925.' The costs in comparison today are amazing. Shipment of components from Scotland via the SS LONDON IMPORTER are complete here with all vital specifications. In time--and with your patience--I'll distill and share this information. The records include the specifications for the high and low pressure cylinders, wheel shaft with centers/cranks etc. Here's just a sampling of the 'labor costs.'

1. Unloading/assembly of hull - $12,030.31
2. Building hot/sea well - $339.29
3. Keelblocks/foundtions - $1,341.18
4. Evaporators - $ 6.24
5. Twin beam air pump - $ 49.62
6. Water tanks & lines - $ 6.72
7. Condensor installation - $ 5.76
8. Boiler installation - $ 355.25
9. Scaffolds/Staging - $ 466.90
10. Fuel oil system - $ 17.76
11. Observation/Texas deck - $ 55.64
12. Main freight deck - $ 38.65
13. Main deck guard - $ 378.03 [Materials only]
14. Rudders/steering - $ 70.66 [Materials only]

Total to just that date was: $18,129.01

These papers here in my files came via the University of Glasgow, Scotland in addition to John Burns, son of Jim Burns, builder of the DELTA KING/DELTA QUEEN. Here also is the quotes, specifications for the hull components. Also includes transcripts of Atlantic cable communications between Jim Burns, 'California Transportation Co.' and 'Denny Brothers, Ltd., Leven Ship Yard, Dumbarton, Scotland. Again and again Jim Burns mentions the "eyes of the U.S. Steamboat Inspection Service on the building program."

Fascinating material and I'll share after New Year if there's an interest. The labor costs then compared to now speak for themselves.

Cheers,
R. Dale Flick