A Seasoned History Dining is more than a culinary delight at the Mike Fink Restaurant. It is an experience to be remembered. As pleasing as is the food and service of the restaurant, so too are the unique surroundings a vital part of our guest's visit. CONSIDER THESE FACTS ABOUT THE FAMOUS PADDLE-WHEELER ABOUT WHICH YOU SIT... The Mike Fink began its career as the John W. Hubbard, a sternwheeler built to tow Texaco oil barges. The boat is 225 feet from bow to stern and is 35 feet wide. It measures 60 feet from the top of the stacks to the bottom and draws 9 feet. In 1947, the John W. Hubbard became the Charles Dorrance and was commissioned to tow coal on the Ohio River. Marine salvage expert, Captain John Beatty, purchased the paddle-wheeler in 1967 and spent one year converting it into the present "Mike Fink" restaurant. The restaurant opened in May of 1968. The Bernstein family purchased the Mike Fink in August of 1977. The following year, they refurbished the entire interior and added the glass-enclosed dining barge outside. The Mike Fink is the most recognized landmark along the Ohio River. The stern wheel was completely and authentically rebuilt during the summer of 1979. This boat was placed on the National Historic Register of Buildings and Places in 1981.