Black Hawk (Steamboat), 15 Jun 1843

WHAT NEST. -- A small stern-wheel steam craft, about the size of an ordinary canal boat, came into port from Buffalo a few days ago, bound for Cleveland, where the proprietor expects to find employment for it in towing canal packets on the twelve mile level of Tonawanda. Its engine has about fifteen horse power, and would perhaps drive the boat like fury in smooth water. "BLACK-HAWK," for that is the boat's name, disclaimed to follow channels or avoid shoals, and, in leaving port, hove smack through the western opening of the Bay -- the first steam boat that ever performed that fete -- thus confirming Sam Patch's theory that "Some things can be done as well as others," We hope the little wamderer did not mistake Ashtabula for Tonawanda, and run in there, for those of our merchants who expect freight by the Ohio Cross Cut will be glad if her services can expedite business on that route.
      Erie Gazette
      Thursday, June 15, 1843