For most of the 1927 season the Dixie was piloted by Captain Leon Ash, a much recognized riverboat pilot. Captain Ash was one of only two people on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers that were licensed to operate all vessels of any type and size. Later in his career he would serve as pilot aboard the Avalon (now the Belle of Louisville). Captain Leon Ash was a first-cousin to Joe Breeck's first wife, Katie Ash.
The Ash estate, located on the Ohio River in Lamb, Indiana, was well known by riverboat captains as "Ash Land". The original house on the estate was built in 1798 by Leon's great-grandfather, George Ash. It is the second oldest brick house on the Ohio River, and perhaps the oldest brick house in Indiana.
Harold Gaskill was a familiar face aboard the Dixie throughout the 1930's. In 1929 he began working for Captain Breeck as the first 1st Mate for the "New Dixie". From 1932 to 1938 Harold captained the Dixie on weekends and holidays.
...UNDER CONSTRUCTION...