CLARKS FERRY

This ferry was established by Benjamin W. Clark in 1833, and became the most important river crossing above St. Louis, attributable to the easy approaches and course of emigration. With the building of towns on opposite shores, Andalusia. Ill., and Buffalo, Iowa, the name Clark's Ferry, became obsolete.

However, there has been a continuous ferry traffic since 1833. Mr. Clark piloted a flatboat with long sweeps and pike poles. Later boats were propelled by horse-power, by steam and nowadays by gasoline, the launch towing a barge upon occasion, when required. During the closed season, the river has to be crossed by other means.

 

Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois

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