When I lived as a very young girl in Northern Michigan, a highlight of my little existence was any errand that necessitated our taking the Ironton Ferry. I have looked for information, but have not been able to determine how long this ferry has been in service. Suffice to say, it was certainly venerable by the mid-1970s, and last I knew, one of the few remaining cabled ferry services in the country. It is also a practical way to get around the inconvenience of the protruding South Arm of Lake Charlevoix. We lived in East Jordan; the next largest towns (“largest” being a very relative term) were Charlevoix and Boyne City. To get from one to the other was a long enough drive, which the ferry made much more convenient.
Granted, on premium summer days and with visiting tourists, the four-car limit made for an occasional wait, but there are worse things to do than stand on the shore of a lake and watch the sun dapple-dance its way across sparkling water, listening for the approaching putt-putt of the ferry’s motor. That was the signal to get back into our cars and await the instructions of the often crotchety captain who may have been the same age as the ferry itself. (I have to be careful here; as an employee of the County of Charlevoix, my father had the opportunity to substitute-captain this fine craft on occasion.) Speaking of captains, I did learn in my research that long-time ferry operator Sam Alexander is listed in “Ripley’s Believe it or Not!” for traveling 15,000 miles while never being more than 1/4 mile from his home over a period of years. In recent years, I had the misfortune of being piloted by a taciturn young man in his late teens duly plugged into his iPod who never even looked at his passengers, so it was a pleasure last month to meet a wonderfully outgoing middle-aged captain who obviously enjoyed such a unique job. (Clicking on photos displays a much clarified image, depending on one’s monitor settings.)

Posted signs direct passengers to remain in their vehicles. However, I didn't obey this edict when I was 5, and I'm certainly not starting now. One misses too much scenery from the passenger seat.

The designated box for walking passengers, who travel at a greatly reduced rate. However, I rarely see hikers remain in that yellow square any more than I remain in my car.

Landings Bar and Restaurant, where I have gone with friends by boat. Closed for the season here... (so-so food, good beer.)
Early as I can remember, fares were 50 cents. Now they charge $3.25 (but I think walkers are still .50, and bicyclists are charged $1.00.) However, if as part of your commute you will need the ferry service frequently, it is useful to purchase a book for $50, which contains tickets for 20 passages. Handily, our family still has our book… purchased according to the inner ledger for a whopping $6 on May 1, 1976. There are two tickets left in the book, but I doubt I have the nerve to use them.
For how many bits of our childhood disappear as we get older, I’m awfully glad this fondly remembered relic is still around. 😀
Loved the journey April, thank you for sharing. I remember back in the late 50’s, my dad painted the Mackinaw Bridge and we took the car ferry over to St. Ignace…with our dog too.. that was back in ’56 or ’57… I haven’t traveled much (other states or countries) however, I have to say, I love Michigan, so beautiful and four seasons!! Again, thank you for sharing!
Nancy, that is so cool your father painted the Bridge!! Wow, what a memory. Yes, Michigan is in my DNA for sure, no matter where else I go. 😀
I think the only ferry I’ve been on is up in Alaska…
Great story and pictures!
In the early 70s my Grandparents lived on top and to the right of the hill of the ferry. I was about your age too. The excitement of my day was to walk down and take a ride across and back. I loved to pick out bait at the little shop that is now the restaurant. I’m glad the ferry is still around. Was able to take my kids on a ride last year.
How cool, Dh! Some things never get old LOL! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂
[image: photo April-country-jug-quilt-by-Pauline-.jpg]
*My Blog*
On Fri, Feb 27, 2015 at 10:23 PM, April's Atelier wrote:
>