The Ferryboat Eureka
historic place
The historic ferryboat Eureka, located in San Francisco, was built in 1890 in Tiburon, California. Initially named Ukiah, this side-wheel paddle steamboat transported passengers and railway cars for the San Francisco and North Pacific Railroad. Between 1920 and 1922, the vessel was rebuilt and renamed Eureka. She was converted to carry automobiles and more passengers, becoming a key part of cross-bay travel. The Eureka served routes to Marin until 1941 and to Oakland until 1957, also transporting troops during World War II. Today, the Eureka is preserved at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. She is the last remaining example of the large wooden-hulled ferryboats that once served San Francisco Bay. Her unique walking beam engine is the only one still afloat in North America. This ferryboat provides a tangible connection to the Bay Area's transportation history.