Abstract:
Before the bridges spanned the state's rivers and creeks, ferries transported people, animals, and various cargoes across waterways. It is believed the Quakers owned and operated the first ferry in 1700 in the Albemarle Sound area. Early ferries were private enterprises, and it was not until 1741 that the first free ferry was established. Once numerous, only ten ferries are in use today, seven along the coast and three on inland waterways.