Shipbuilders around the Great Lakes quickly adopted this efficient design. Over the next four years, 46 other wooden bulk carriers were constructed, becoming the forerunners of today's modern bulk carriers. Following the example first set by the steam barges of the day, the cargo space was freed up by moving the machinery aft and the pilothouse forward, which also greatly improved visibility. Powerful engines provided the main form of propulsion and allowed these ships to tow one or two barges , called consorts , that were as large as the steamers themselves. Auxiliary sails provided additional power and stabilization while underway. To maximize efficiency and competitiveness, these new wooden bulk carriers were built as large as technology and sailing conditions would allow.

Iron cross-bracing can be readily seen on the Louisiana.

The economic panic of 1873 brought shipbuilding to an abrupt halt and marked the end of the first generation of bulk carriers. By the time the industry revived in 1880, technological advances enabled ship builders to design the larger and more powerful second generation of bulk carriers. During the next decade, a remarkable 170 such vessels would be built on the Great Lakes, including the Louisiana.

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