Saugatuck, Michigan - Human-powered Chain Ferry

The ferry in the resort town of Saugatuck, Michigan is claimed to be the only remaining chain driven ferry in the US. It goes back to 1838, but I think the present one was built in the 1930's.

Three pullies keep it in line as it is being pulled across the channel. This is an unusual operation to watch. When it is ready to cross the channel, the operator takes a can of compressed air and blows a very loud whistle (airhorn) alerting all boat traffic to stop. The ferry probably has not evolved much in its decades of operation. It is hand propelled! The operator turns a wheel on the inside and this pulls the ferry along the chain. The ferry goes from the immediate downtown, and after a short walk takes you to Oval beach, unquestionably one of the most fabulous beaches on the planet. The ferry beats making the long drive around the lake and then having to look for a spot at the crowded parking lot. [Richard Weiss, 02/05/2005]