Although I already shared a picture of the Great Hall empty, it took quite a bit of effort to get the last few pieces out. We hired Hampton Roads Crane and Rigging to help us out and, as usual, they did an excellent job.

The first of the three pieces to come down was the stern carving from the paddle wheel steamer Priscilla, in service from 1893-1938. Until Commonwealth was built she was considered the finest steamboat around and could reach a speed of 22mph. Below is a picture of the stern carving on the boat.

The next piece to go was the paddlebox eagle from the steamer Kingston, ca 1837.

The last piece out was our steeple-type reciprocating steam engine from the tug John Taxis, 1869. The tug later was renamed William Stewart and the engine was removed August 1, 1945 and then donated to the museum. The piece still works and Cindi would sometimes run out to the gallery and turn it on for visitors to see.

All three pieces will be going in to storage to take a break from the spotlight. Although we are a bit sad to see these beautiful pieces removed from the gallery, the excitement builds for what is to come!