From "Way's Packet Directory, 1848-1983":

DUNBAR

Sidewheel wooden hulled packet built in 1859 at Brownsville, Pa. 213 tons. Named for James Dunbar, noted boat builder of the Pittsburgh area. Bought new by Capt. Gus Fowler, Paducah, for Evansville-Paducah trade, replacing SILVER STAR, which had become too small for business. She was continued there until the opening of hostilities in 1861, then taken up the Tennessee River to prevent capture. Did some service for the Confederates when Bragg evacuated Chattanooga, and then the Confederates scuttled her along with the PAINT ROCK. (during defense of Fort Henry, Tenn). Capt. Arthur Edwards, asst., QMCD, was detailed to raise her and repair her for the U.S., which he did. She then rendered valuable service ferrying troops the day General Hooker gained Lookout Mountain. After the war she was sold at public sale, bid in by an Upper Tennessee party, and later used as a covered barge. This information was supplied by the late Saunders Fowler, son of Capt. Gus Fowler.

The "Dictionary of Transports and Combatant Vessels Steam and Sail Employed by the Union Army 1861-1868" states she was a former Confederate riverboat on Tennesee and Cumberland Rivers. Sunk by Union artillery during advance on Chattanooga in Sept. of 1863. Raised and repaired by Union engineers. Used in river crossing above Chattanooga in Oct. Later used by the Union quartermaster for the supply of Chattanooga. Part of "Cracker Line". Located at Chattanooga as of June 30, 1865; condition rated as "wreck". Margin note states vessel was turned over to an agent of the Treasury Department.

Hope this helps,
Bob Birmingham