Traffic & Transit
Historic Connecticut River Ferry Begins 364th Year Of Service
The historic Connecticut River ferry is now running for the season.
GLASTONBURY/ROCKY HILL, CT — The historic Connecticut River ferry between Glastonbury and Rocky Hill has begun its 364th straight year in service, just in time for the Memorial Day weekend.
The ferry traditionally opens for service on April 1 each year, but had been closed because of high water levels. Connecticut Department of Transportation officials said Tuesday it was running.
The ferry is usually closed on Mondays because of staffing issues.
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The ferry is the nation's oldest continuously operating service, dating back to 1655.
The ferry operates on a tug-and-tow system with a small tugboat - the Cumberland - pulling a barge - the Hollister III. The rig accommodates three cars and about 15 motorcycles.
Find out what's happening in Glastonburyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The original ferry was a small raft pushed across the river using long poles. In 1876, the ferry was "modernized" into a steam-driven craft, DOT officials said.
The Cumberland was commissioned in 1955 and there have been three versions of the Hollister.
Click here for fare and normal operating schedules.
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