Give us sod houses and wagon trails, but a SHIPWRECK!! Yep, a shipwreck in Oklahoma. It was found by a fisherman in the Red River after he snared it with his fishing lure. It appears to be that of the New Orleans-based steamboat Caddo, which became snagged and sank April 13, 1842, on a return trip to New Orleans from the Fort Towsen steamboat landing. Fort Towsen was also known at the time as Doaksville, the capital of the Choctaw Nation. It is unknown how many were aboard the 196 ton twin side-wheeler, believed to have been commanded by Captain John Grahm of New Orleans, and with a crew of about two dozen. No one was killed in the accident though an unidentified passenger suffered a broken leg when he fell from the hurricane deck atop the vessel. However, only thorough research will aid us in the 'true' identity of this wreck, that was uncovered as lack of rain caused the Red River to recede. Since then the river has returned to its regular heigth and the wreck is once more submerged in the red-clay colored water. Oklahoma officials are scrambling to find grant money or donated funds to secure the safety of the site and allow proper excavation this coming spring. Contact with A&M has already been made in refrence to a Coffer Damn, to be erected around the wreck and allow water to be pumped out, as the water is far to muddy to allow excavation underwater. I am hoping to have more information as I come across it. I am looking for any one who might have info regarding riverboating from the late 1830's to 40's and particulary any information on the Caddo or other ships in the area during this time period. Also any images of early steamboats are needed. Also, is there any one who could give me a list of people I could contact for my historical society in ref to obtaining grant money etc. I mean a shipwreck in Oklahoma is pretty unique. This will allow us to look back on a history few Oklahoman's are only vaguely aware of. Any and all help is appreciated!