The steamboat Walt was a truly elegant steamer. Its 43 staterooms were lavishly furnished, but the 10 set aside for women were fitted like rooms in a fine hotel, with imported furnishings. The cabin was covered with the finest velvet carpet, with all furniture richly and ornately carved. This sleek steamer departed Memphis for Jacksonport in 1870, and parties were held at every town along the way.
From Watson, Tim, and Elizabeth Jacoway. Newport and Jackson County. Arcadia Publishing, 2016