The Valley View Ferry
If you follow Kentucky’s state route 169 as it winds through rural Madison and Jessamine counties you will come across an interesting little piece of Bluegrass history. Ferrying cars between the shores of the Kentucky river is the state’s oldest continuously operating business, the Valley View Ferry.
Beginning in 1780, a full 12 years before Kentucky became a state, John Craig established his business carrying passengers across the river. 5 years later the state granted him a perpetual and irrevocable franchise for the business. It was operated for over 200 years as a private business, being sold throughout the years 5 times, until being acquired by the state in 1991.
Today you can ride the modern ferry for free, and retrace the path taken by such notable figures as Daniel Boone, Henry Clay, and even Ulysses S. Grant. Although it may seem a novelty, the ferry provides a valuable service for local residents who would otherwise have to drive miles out of their way to reach the nearest bridge crossing. This means that if you’re planning a visit, you should account for “busy hours”, such as the morning and afternoon commutes for travelers on their way to work. The ferry can hold 3-4 cars at a time at most, and so things can get a bit backed up. The boat is able to make it’s crossing in roughly 5-7 minutes, not including loading and unloading times. The large boat and slow speeds means that you’re not really aware of the motion, and shouldn’t be concerned with “sea sickness”. There are also adequate life vests on board to provide for all passengers during any emergency that might arise. The state does ask that you remain in your vehicle during the journey, but you are welcome to roll down windows and hang phones/cameras out the window. Be warned though, the ferry does close in the event of high water, so it’s worth checking before planning a trip.
Outside of coastal areas a ferry is a somewhat unique sight. Therefore Valley View offers a peculiar opportunity to experience an outdated form of travel, in a historic setting. Although the boat may be modern, knowing that you’re crossing in the same path and means as so many historical figures cannot help but transport you back to another time. While this short trip across the river may not merit a long journey just for its sake, it can easily be paired with visits to the numerous history sites in nearby Madison, Jessamine, Clark, and Fayette counties.
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