Despite the decline in ship building, Belfast remained a busy port at the turn of the 20th century as rapid industrial development spread along the west side waterfront and steamships and railroads became the primary movers of goods. Granaries and creameries, clothing and shoe manufacturers, a fuel company, and granite works formed the city's economic base, while on the east side ice houses, brickworks, a foundry, and a paper mill were the principal industries. Local shopkeepers sold a variety of goods, and people from communities around Penobscot Bay relied on steamboat excursions to Belfast for a day of shopping. Around 1900, the waterfront was crowded with commercial activity, reflecting the vitality of Belfast's economy.