The Spirit of Jefferson's journey began in 1963. She was built in Iowa by the Dubuque Boat and Boiler Company for Streckfus Steamers of St. Louis, Missouri. The boat cruised out of New Orleans as the Mark Twain from 1963 to 1970. After that, she made her way up the Mississippi River to St. Louis. There, she was renamed the Huck Finn. For 25 years, she offered dinner and sightseeing cruises from just below the St. Louis Arch.

In December of 1995, after a three year search for the right riverboat, Jefferson County Judge/Executive David L. Armstrong found and purchased the Huck Finn.

The following year, Judge Armstrong's office conducted a contest to rename the boat, and more than 3,000 entries were received. The Huck Finn became the Spirit of Jefferson in April of 1996. Her name honors her home county and the great Thomas Jefferson.

Along with the historic Steamer Belle of Louisville, the Spirit is owned by Louisville Metro Government and operated by the Louisville Waterfront Development Corporation. With her charm, spunk, and flexibility, the Spirit of Jefferson makes for wonderful memories along the Ohio River. She has the look and feel of an old-time steamboat, with the modern conveniences of heat, air conditioning, and more.

Join her for a journey, and see for yourself!

Continental Breakfast available to get your day started the right way!

Spend the evening on the Caribbean with the sounds of a steel band and a pina colada in your hand! Feast on a taste of the Islands while relaxing in your Caribbean attire.

This is a causal evening to relax and enjoy the company of your fellow Compatriots.

A professional photographer will be available during the cocktail hour for individual photos at a nominal fee.

The Trustee's meeting sometimes requires us to work through lunch. This meal is available so that we can eat and then continue with the meeting in a timely manner. The meal is generally sandwiches along with other specialties of the Brown Hotel to pep you up for the rest of the meeting.

This option features Cavatelli Pasta which is made with Mediterranean vegetables and spicy tomato sauce.

We start with cocktails and then settle in for a delicious meal and the live music of the '50s and '60s.

While the dress is formal the atmosphere will be relaxed.