Built in 1981, by Crumpler's Shipbuilding Company of Orange, Texas (hull #841) as the Blanco for Rio Marine Incorporated of Houston, Texas.
In 1986, Rio Marine Incorporated became the Alamo Inland Marine Company of Houston, Texas. Where the tug retained her name.
In 1989, the tug was acquired by Dixie Marine Incorporated of Houston, Texas. Where the tug retained her name.
In 1998, she was acquired by the Kirby Corporation of Channelview, Texas. Where the tug retained her name.
In 2003, the Kirby Corporation renamed the tug as the Capt. James Hoover.
Repowered in 2010, she is driven by two Cummins QSK19 diesel engines. With Twin Disc reduction gears, at a ratio of 6:1. The tug is a twin screw towboat, rated at 1,320 horsepower.