James Oliver Curwood 
Great Lakes 

This classic tome belongs on the bookshelf of anyone and everyone with an interest in Great Lakes freighters and vessels and in the origin and functioning of the Great Lakes shipping trade. The material in this book, published circa 1909, is priceless. It includes information of historical value you will find nowhere else, especially if you’re interested in the origin and development of the classic Great Lakes ore boat, the packet freighter, the side-wheel excursion and "night boat" passenger steamers, and other vessels of the lake shipping trade from its origins in the 19th century through the first decade of the 20th century. (Goodreads)