History of the Great Lakes. Volume II by J. B. Mansfield, ed.

Excerpts…

“In his domestic and social life Captain Inman is exceedingly happy, his wife, Mrs. May R. (Conniff) Inman, taking an interest in all that pertains to the Captain's marine business, in fact is herself a skillful pilot, and it is interesting to note, is the only lady on the lakes who holds a license as pilot, issued by the United States authorities. This paper was granted her May 30, 1895, by John Monaham, and Michael F. Calk, local inspector for the Duluth district, she being recommended by Capt. Richard Neville and Capt. John Lowe. Mrs. Inman has sailed the tug Ariel as master, and has been pilot of the side-wheel steamer E.T. Carrington, plying as a pleasure boat on the St. Lewis bay and river. She also stood as watch and pilot with the Captain when they received the new tug B.B. Inman at Port Huron, took her to Cleveland and thence to Duluth; and was mate and pilot of the tug Bob Anderson when she was brought to Duluth after having been sunk near Detroit.

She is an enthusiast on the subject of yachting and can handle a sail boat of any rig to perfection. As the foregoing is evidence that Mrs. Inman is a courageous and loyal woman, so there is a softer trait in her temperament, which is developed by her artistic studies, she being a painter of rare merit, her work, however, tending to marine subjects, which she produces in oil and water colors with harmony of detail and good effects, although she also essays floral and landscape work. Her pencil sketches are executed with rapidity and accuracy. Her kodak, which is an inseparable companion, serves to fill her portfolios with charming gems, those of a marine character again predominating. In truth, Mrs. Inman is a valuable shipmate for the Commodore, as her hand is steady and firm, yet gentle and tender.”