Clinton, Iowa, got a taste of royalty Tuesday afternoon, as the American Queen steamboat made its first-ever whistle stop in town.
Hundreds of people watched along the Mississippi River shoreline and took pictures as the largest steamboat ever built docked at the Clinton Marina.
Captain Brent Willits said he was scouting the location for possible future, day-long stops on the popular overnight river cruises. The brief landing was also a trip down memory lane for Willits, who was born and raised in the Clinton and Camanche area.
"You know, I'm a little overwhelmed actually. I didn't imagine we'd get this kind of turnout of people really excited to be here, and it's fun. I see so many old friends and family, geeze, I've seen my coach from junior high," said Willits.
Area mayors and representatives from the Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau also toured the boat, which can hold more than 400 passengers.
The American Queen is built in the period style of the 1800s, and even features a swimming pool, gym, and replica of Ford's Theatre. Bedroom suites open to a deck overlooking the river, and visitors can relax on swings on the breezy front porch.
"It's been absolutely phenomenal. The people are so friendly, and Captain Brent, he's everywhere and knows everybody by first name, and he greets everybody with such warmth. It's amazing," said Kathy Klahn, an old friend of Willits who was aboard the boat.
Willits said being captain of the American Queen has been an amazing experience.
"You hear great stories everyday, and it's just a lot of fun. I get to have fun for a living -- what a great job," said Willits.
And though Clinton is part of Willits' history, he hopes this stop won't be the last.
"Clinton is really tailor-made for this stuff, and we're always looking for new experiences for our guests, so this is the first step in a long journey. We'll see where it goes," said Willits.
Clinton wouldn't become a regular stop until at least 2016.