Next door to Gillette Castle is the ferry crossing between these two towns.
As per Wiki, the Chester–Hadlyme ferry is a seasonal ferry crossing the Connecticut River between the town of Chester, Connecticut and the village of Hadlyme. It is the second oldest continuously operating ferry service in the state of Connecticut and is a designated state historical landmark
Beside the waterfront section of Gillette Castle you will find a small parking lot next to the ferry. There’s even a small boat launch at the lot which was a nice spot to watch the ferry cross the river.
Coincidentally, this was the last day of the season for the ferry which in 2020 had an abbreviated run from around June to October 25 although normally April to November. There is a fee as well for cars, bikes and pedestrians. The crossing takes about five minutes.
The ferry began operation in 1769 often used throughout the Revolutionary War to transport needed supplies across the river.
Along the fence of the ferry launch is a sign which references the most notable floods of the Connecticut River. While I was unfamiliar with the history, apparently these floods resulted in most of the dams or coves which I seek out today. I have included a link to the Hartford Courant’s article on these floods below.
https://www.courant.com/courant-250/moments-in-history/hc-flooding-weather-250-20140105-story.html
The boat holds only nine cars and since the pandemic is only allowing three so it can take a while to cross this way. The approach to the ferry (the road on which you would likely be waiting) is lined with old houses close to the road beckoning you to look upon them and respect their wisdom. .
On the boat itself is a copy of the original rate card. It’s amusing to see the types of transports listed to include horses, sheep and kine (apparently a collective word for cows).
Combine this visit with Gillette Castle and a picnic lunch from the Cooking Company (see related blogs). Have you yet crossed the river and have something I should see? Hope to do that one day soon.
Fall 2020
Pivot and Pause in New England 