Bemus Point-Stow Ferry Now Open To Public

By MANLEY J. ANDERSON

7/15/2006 - STOW — The Bemus Point-Stow Ferry may have looked old and tired Friday afternoon but when it was fired up the over-water craft easily made it across the narrows and back on its maiden run of the 2006 season.On board were numerous Chautauqua County officials, including County Executive Gregory J. Edwards who said a ferry has provided transportation across the lake at the site every year beginning in 1811.Edwards said the volunteers and elected officials associated with the over-water transport recognize the importance it has for Chautauqua County. He cited the cooperation from North Harmony and Bemus Point, along with county Legislators Fred Croscut of Sherman, Frank Jay Gould of Ashville, and Richard C. Babbage of Bemus Point.Also acknowledged were the contributions of Harmony Town Clerk Sally P. Carlson and Bemus Point Mayor Bryan P. Dahlberg and his wife, Ann.Edwards said Chautauqua County brought the resources together with assistance from Rick Willman of the Summer Wind, associates of Chautauqua County Historic Vessels and ‘‘hands-on labor.’’ The county executive added, ‘‘It’s history and it’s future.’’All those associated with the project of getting the ferry back into service were commended for their ‘‘good solid work.’’‘‘We’ve been working on it for four weeks, ’’ said town of Ellery resident John C. Cheney, whose wife Betty and their son Jim also were instrumental in the project of again making the ferry seaworthy. Among others cited for their contributions were James Loutzenhiser, John and Rick Willman, Roger Miller, Duane Buchweitz, Brian Ceci and Sam Genco.Cheney said the ferry is licensed to carry two cars and 40 pedestrians but as of Friday afternoon no operating schedule had been prepared.He said the cost of riding on the carrier is expected to be the same as that posted on the vessel which is $1 for pedestrians and bicyclists, $4 for an auto and passengers, $2 for a motorcycle, and $1 per axle for trailers.

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