Captain Norton Of The Great Lakes

"Michigan" On The Great Lakes [Not Henry Clay]

Captain Norton and a Great Lakes Steamer described in Detroit In 1827...., By General Friend Palmer:

"Let me refer once more to Captain [Walter] Norton, one of the most conspicuous and popular captains on the lakes at that early day. The “Henry Clay” was a crack steamer and, of course, must have a corresponding chief officer. Of commanding presence, Captain Norton, of the ‘fast steamboat “Henry Clay,”’ when he appeared on Jefferson avenue, clad in his blue swallowtail coat with brass buttons, nankeen pants and vest, and low shoes with white stockings, not forgetting the ruffled shirt and tall hat, was the observed of all observers. Steamboat captains were kings in those days. All were pleased and anxious to show them every attention."

Source

"When the “Clay” rounded Sandwich point, Detroit lay before us and, though small, the city presented quite an attractive appearance. The most conspicuous object in the distance was the steeple or cupola of the statehouse or territorial capitol building, that pushed its head up among the surrounding trees, its tin covering glittering in the morning sun. This statehouse was located, where is now Capitol Square, and where the remains of Michigan’s first governor, Stevens T. Mason, now repose."