Statement of Significance (as of designation - April 27, 1992):
Constructed in 1934, this steam-propelled, sternwheel dustpan dredge is one of a handful of such vessels preserved in this in this country. Black played a major role in the improvement of the Missouri River system, where dredges deepened and redirected the Western rivers, fought levee failures to prevent floods, and allowed the spread of navigation to regions previously inaccessible. She was decommissioned in 1973.

The vessel has been substantially rehabilitated with new paint, hull stabilization, installation of HVAC system in the cabin area. This work was made possible by a Save America's Treasures grant and funds made available through the Vision Iowa Program.The Iowa SHPO and the MWRO NPS are reviewing the work specifications for the SAT grant. The rehabilitation project includes several components: 1. Deteriorated canvas deck material, second deck, is deteriorating and will be removed and replaced. 2. Two metal smokestacks will be cleaned, repainted, and capped to prevent interior rust. 3. The main metal deck will be scraped, cleaned, and repainted. 4. The rubber membrane roof of the pilot house and decking on the third level will be repaired or replaced