General Slocum (Canal boat), 3 Oct 1865

      Launch. - According to announcement the launch of the new canal boat built by Samuel Miller for Messrs. Wright & Penfield, took place yesterday afternoon at about half past 4 o'clock. All things being ready, at the word she was lowered to the ways, and instantly plunged into her native element - not like "a thing of life" as the poet would have it, but as a mammoth stately, staunch canal craft ought - with flags flying and amid the huzzas of the crowd as her name was announced - the GENERAL SLOCUM. A barrel of Greenway's best was tapped on board; and as the tug Lady Franklin took the craft in tow and steamed up the harbor, the deck crowded with workmen and invited guests, in bumpers of the democratic beverage long life and profitable voyages were toasted to the GENERAL SLOCUM.
      A better built craft does not navigate the New York State Canals than the GENERAL SLOCUM. Every rib is of sound 3-inch oak, and her siding and lining of the same substantial material, and she is most thoroughly and staunchly braced. her capacity is believed to be 8,000 bushels of wheat. She is worthy of her name, a credit to her builder and owners.
      Oswego Palladium
      October 3, 1865

      The Canal Boat GENERAL SLOCUM cleared for New York this morning, her cargo consisting of 1,030 bushels of barley - weight about 242 tons - the largest cargo paying the heaviest toll, ever cleared from this port. Captain Penfield expects to re-clear at New York for Philadelphia. The splendid appearance of the craft no less than her illustrious name, will attract attention all along the route.
      Oswego Palladium
      Fri., October 6, 1865