The Clearwater Area Historical Society erected a new sign along the Mississippi River last Saturday at the approximate site of Clearwater’s second ferry landing. The sign tells the chronological story of Clearwater’s ferry and original bridge and is illustrated with historical photographs.

 

The Clearwater ferry was the first to cross the Mississippi River, and was the longest running swing-line ferry that operated on it. The original ferry operated from 1856 to 1930, until the first bridge was installed. After ice jams caused the bridge to go out in 1943, the second ferry opened and operated from 1944 to 1950.

 

The new ferry landing sign is intended to greet people who are on the Mississippi River and inform them it’s the site of the landing.

 

Historical Society member Wally Eisenschenk orchestrated the project, planning and building the frame the sign was placed on. Tri-County Lumber in Clearwater donated the materials for the frame, and Franklin Outdoor Advertising designed and printed the actual sign.

 

On Saturday, Eisenschenk and fellow Historical Society members Tom Killeen and Shawn Moorehouse erected the new sign, while Karolyn Boucher and Janelle Hennen headed up a group of young volunteers who cleaned up garbage along the Ferry Landing Trail for Earth Day. 

 

The entrance to the trail is located at the intersection of Oak Street and Main in Clearwater, and is marked with a sign that was previously erected.

 

The Clearwater Area Historical Society’s mission is to chronicle the history of the Clearwater area with intent to actively collect, preserve and educate. For more information visit clearwaterhistory.org.