Fundraiser offers unique view of capital

Shown is the 2011 Barge into History on the Missouri River. This year's two-hour tour along the Jefferson City riverfront will be offered Thursday and Friday.
Shown is the 2011 Barge into History on the Missouri River. This year's two-hour tour along the Jefferson City riverfront will be offered Thursday and Friday.

Watching the sunset reflecting off the Missouri River from aboard a watercraft should be a delightful experience.

Viewing the Jefferson City's skyline features looking up from the water should give guests a new perspective on sites including the Capitol, Missouri State Penitentiary, the new federal courthouse and Hayselton Drive.

This unique vantage point will be offered for two nights by the Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau's Discover Jefferson City Foundation.

The 2011 Barge Into History one-night event sold out immediately, said bureau executive director Steve Picker.

So in its second year, the two-hour, 160-passenger tour will be offered Thursday and Friday.

The sizable barge will leave the Noren Access at 6 p.m. and return at 8 p.m.

Heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served by the G2 Gallery and adult beverages will be available.

However, this is not a luxury cruise. Guests should dress accordingly, as the rusty steel barge generally is used to haul sand.

It's the view, the socialization and the information from local historian Gary Kremer that will make the event, Picker noted. Professional fiddle music also will help create a fun atmosphere.

"It's not the same view as from the bridge," Picker said. "It's interesting to see the Missouri River bridge from the river."

This is the only fundraising event for the newly formed foundation, created to support the bureau's efforts.

Hoping to raise $25,000 from the barge tours, the foundation wants to grow its general fund to help with future projects, including the prison museum and possible restorations at the Missouri State Penitentiary.

The museum, set to open the spring of 2013, received a boost this week with a $2,500 grant from the Missouri Humanities Council.

With the conceptual phase completed, bids soon will be released to get a cost for artwork and display production, which will provide a cost estimate.

The museum will be located on the second floor of 100 E. High St., above the bureau's offices.

Tickets for the Barge Into History fundraiser are $100.

Call (573) 632-2820 or e-mail to [email protected] for more information.