The Lifeline of Castle Rock: Shintaffer Wharf and the Legacy of the Chester

In the heart of Castle Rock's riverine trade network stood Shintaffer Wharf, a pivotal juncture where the rhythmic dance of sternwheelers marked the ebb and flow of early commerce. Nestled at the end of Shintaffer Street, this wharf served as a crucial hub for vessels navigating the intricate waterways from Portland along the Columbia and Cowlitz Rivers to Toledo. Among these, the Chester, moored with dignity to the left of the Northwest, held a place of honor for its remarkable design and role in overcoming the rivers' seasonal whims.

Working To Overcome

The Chester's fame was not without merit. Known for its shallow draft, it was said that a mere touch of dew was enough to buoy this vessel, a legend that underscored its indispensable role during the challenging late summer months. As river levels dwindled, the Northwest, burdened by depth and draft, would relinquish its passengers and cargo to the Chester. This exchange, a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of early river navigation, took place right at Castle Rock, transforming the wharf into a bustling interchange of goods, stories, and destinies.

The Chester, with its unique ability to navigate shallow waters, would then proceed to complete the journey to Toledo, ensuring that the lifeblood of commerce and community connection flowed uninterrupted.

Shintaffer’s Wharf Was The Hub

Shintaffer Wharf's legacy, symbolized by the Chester's resilience and the community's dependence on sternwheelers, showcases Castle Rock's history where the river served as both a challenge and a crucial conduit for development. This story reflects the adaptability and ingenuity that drove our area's growth, positioning the wharf as a testament to the enduring spirit of its early settlers. To read more about the Chester go here

The End of an Era

On Friday, November 2, 1906, Northwest, running back on the Cowlitz river to Portland, struck a rock about three miles upriver from Kalama. Northwest was beached immediately and passengers and crew taken off the boat with no harm. Finally, the Chester was abandoned in Keslo in 1917. To read more about the Northwest go here.