The name of the boat was, "Idahoe" Yikes.
I can't imagine a more appropriate name for that steamboat!
No surprise. Women were 2nd class citizens (legally speaking) during this time period. A step above bondage. It was most definitely a man's world at the time. The push for rights of women to be treated as equals, didn't gain traction until the next century.
The sex industry has flourished since before the time of the immaculate conception. It will continue to as well. That plenty of folks are repulsed by the industry doesn't change the fact that, it's a successful enterprise for many. Just like in the article of the OP, most places where it's legal, have positive economic, & health benefits. People (male & female), are going to do, what they want, regardless of who it offends.
My comments are not an endorsement of the industry. Though, I can certainly see where plenty benefit from it, one way or another. I believe in freedom. Part of that is, to choose a lifestyle, or profession I don't personally care for. Like many of us, I would not want a daughter, or grand daughter of mine, making a living in that way.