Built in 2013, by Southwest Shipyard Incorporated of Houston, Texas (hull #9684) as the Rio Grande for Higman Barge Lines Incorporated of Houston, Texas.
In 2018, Higman Barge Lines Incorporated was acquired by the Kirby Corporation of Channelview, Texas. Where the tug retained her name.
Powered by two, Cummins KTA38-M2 diesel engines. With Reintjes reduction gears, at a ratio of 5.947:1. She is a twin screw towboat, rated at 2,000 horsepower.