Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat

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Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat

Named after the retired navy admiral who was in charge of construction for Disneyland and Walt Disney World, this riverboat didn't travel the Rivers of America on opening day in 1971. It premiered a day later on October 2. It used to require a D ticket.

In 1980, The Admiral Joe Fowler was taken to dry dock for routine rehab. While the boat was being lifted by crane, it slipped and the hull was completely destroyed. The boat was then retired due to "mechanical problems". The broken boat was taken to the backstage "bone yard" for awhile before being buried somewhere on the property.

The other riverboat, the Richard F. Irvine (called the Liberty Belle since 1996) didn't debut until May 20, 1973. It was named after a Disney designer and WED executive. It is the only riverboat that currently travels the Rivers of America. The Liberty Belle supposedly has a life ring from the Admiral Joe Fowler on board for good luck.

Special thanks to SJHYM at LaughingPlace.com for information on the Admiral Joe's untimely end.

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