JAMESTOWN — The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry (JSF) system during a ceremony at Jamestown Settlement on Wednesday, Feb. 26 — 100 years from the first launch.
The ferry system began transporting vehicles across the James River on Feb. 26, 1925, operating first as a private enterprise until it was later sold to the Virginia Department of Highways in 1946.
The inaugural crossing was made by the ferry “Captain John Smith,” helmed by Captain Albert Jester. The 60-foot vessel could carry 16 Ford Model Ts across the river.
The anniversary ceremony began with a ferry crossing from Surry to Jamestown accompanied by a dozen classic Ford Model A and Model T cars to celebrate that first ride.
The event showcased the 100-year-old history of the ferry system through photos, videos and stories shared throughout the ceremony.
“Today we celebrate a 100-year history of service history and connection. Not just across the James River but across generations of workers, passengers and families who have made this ferry what it is today,” said Christopher Hall, District Engineer for the Hampton Roads district of VDOT.
During the event, Al Jester, great-grandson of the first ferry captain, proudly spoke of his family’s memories and connection to the ferry system before adding, “How important it is to share the past with your children and grandchildren, appreciate the present and look ahead to the future.”
Today, the only 24-hour state-run ferry remains a vital transportation link, serving nearly 1 million vehicles annually on its fleet of four ferries — Pocahontas, built in 1995, can carry 70 cars, Powhatan, built in 2019, can carry 70 cars, Surry, built in 1979, can carry 50 cars and Williamsburg, built in 1983, can carry 50 cars.
The scenic free ride takes approximately 20 minutes to cross the historic James River.
For more information on the ferry system, including the ride schedule, visit the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry webpage.
