The nation's oldest continuously operating ferry service crosses the Connecticut River between Rocky Hill and Glastonbury.
The original ferry, which dates back to 1655, was a small raft pushed across the river using long poles. Under State charter, the ferry service was operated by local families throughout most of its existence. The ferry service was such a vital transportation link within the region that crossing would cease only during the most adverse conditions.
When river flood levels escalated, the ferry would use alternate landings such as the old coal dock in South Glastonbury, or the ferry operator would skid the craft across inundated meadows to an old dock near Tryon Street. Today the ferry is temporarily closed if the river reaches flood stage.
At one time, a horse on a treadmill in the center of the craft supplied the power to propel the craft across the river. In 1876, the ferry was "modernized" into a steam driven craft. Today's craft is an open flatboat named the "Hollister III". The three-car barge is towed back and forth by the "Cumberland," a diesel powered towboat. The ferry provides a convenient, direct link between Rocky Hill and Glastonbury at Route 160.
For Additional Information Contact:
Connecticut Department of Transportation
Bureau of Aviation & Ports
Office of Port Operations
State Pier
New London, CT 06320
(860)443-3856
Directions
In Glastonbury
From the East Side of the Connecticut River
Route 17 from Route 2
To Route 160
Follow signs to Ferry
In Rocky Hill
From the West Side of the Connecticut River
Interstate 91 (I-91) South or North
To Exit 23, West Street
Top Ramp, is southbound, a left turn
if northbound, right turn
Follow signs to Ferry landing located
on Route 160
