Current Exhibit
Celebrating the Old Westport Ferry Through the Eyes and Memories of Those Who Rode It
Westport Island’s ferry operated from 1899 to 1950, and those who rode it had many stories to tell. The ferry traveled about 900 feet across the Back River narrows to the Wiscasset shore carrying people, horses, food, equipment and cars.
It made its journey guided by a 3/8″ steel cable that ran between the two landings. The cable ran through steel brackets on either end of the ferry. The ferry operator pulled the ferry across manually by manipulating the cable with a notched stick to leverage the tidal flow and propel the ferry. In later years, a motorboat was rafted to the ferry to propel its journey. It’s no wonder that with a steel cable that rusted in the salt water and shifting winds and tidal flows — as well as the occasional skittish animals on board, mishaps were inevitable.
Stories abound. Many of those stories are captured in the exhibit. We extend special appreciation to those who shared their memories at this year’s History Alive! Fundraiser — Jack Swanton, Connie Ostis, Trudy Metzger, Eben Greenleaf and George and Marcia Richardson.
Visit Us
Visit us at the Westport Island History Center to take in the view at the historic Ferry Landing and to view family photographs and artifacts and read the personal anecdotes that tell the Ferry’s story.
Also on view is an exhibit in the entry gallery commemorating America’s 250th and the Westport Islanders who served in the American Revolution.
The History Center is open from noon to 2 pm on Sundays, for special events and meetings noted on our Calendar, and by appointment for viewing at your convenience. Contact info@fowih.org.
Thank You to Our Supporters
Thank you to those past and present who shared their memories, photographs, news clippings, and artifacts to help us tell the story of the old ferry. Some of the stories came from childhood memories, and some came from oral histories, news articles and personal diaries. Telling the stories of our history depends on the willingness of individuals and farmilies to share their family stories.
And thank you once again to our members and generous sponsors who support Westport Island History and help us keep this history alive. Please show your support to the businesses and individuals who support us. All are recognized below and on our Sponsorships page.
