Over the span of the 18th to the 20th century, various types of ferries were used in the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River to facilitate transportation and connect different regions. Here are some notable types of ferries that were commonly employed during this period:
Flatboats: In the early years of settlement, flatboats were commonly used as ferries on the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. These simple, flat-bottomed boats were constructed with a rectangular shape and were capable of carrying passengers, livestock, and cargo across rivers and lakes.
Durham boats: Durham boats were widely used as ferries in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. These sturdy, flat-bottomed boats were initially designed for use on the Delaware and Susquehanna rivers but found popularity in the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. Durham boats were propelled by oars or poles and could carry passengers, goods, and livestock.
Steam Ferries: With the advent of steam power in the 19th century, steam ferries became increasingly common on the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. These ferries were equipped with steam engines that drove paddlewheels or propellers, providing more efficient and reliable transportation. Steam ferries allowed for faster and larger-scale transportation of both passengers and cargo.
Side-wheel Ferries: Side-wheel ferries featured large paddlewheels located on the sides of the vessel. They were widely used in the 19th and early 20th centuries and were known for their distinctive appearance. Side-wheel ferries were capable of carrying significant passenger and cargo loads, providing vital transportation links across the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River.
Car Ferries: As automobile transportation became more prevalent, car ferries were introduced to transport vehicles across the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. Car ferries were specially designed with ramps and decks to accommodate the loading and unloading of automobiles, trucks, and railway cars. They played a crucial role in connecting different regions and enabling the transportation of vehicles between Canada and the United States.
Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) Ferries: In the latter half of the 20th century, roll-on/roll-off ferries gained popularity. These ferries were designed with ramps or doors that allowed vehicles to drive directly onto the ferry, eliminating the need for cargo handling. Ro-Ro ferries revolutionized the transportation of both passengers and vehicles on the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River, providing efficient and convenient transport links.
These are just a few examples of the various types of ferries used in the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River from the 1700s to the 2000s. The evolution of ferry technology over this period played a significant role in connecting communities, promoting trade, and supporting the economic development of the region.
