Show Old F Ferry r y Served for Two Decades Construction of 01 the new million dollar bridge across the Colorado In the last year recalled to Moab's older residents the old ferry lerry which served travelers from the early Ws until early In 1912 The Billings party like those who preceded preceded preceded pre pre- ceded them and many who were to follow forded and swam the river a river a dangerous passage during high water Two men had drowned while crossing the river the day before Norman Lester and Arthur A. A Taylor and their families reached the north banks on their way Into Moab to tomake tomake tomake make their home That tragedy may have led Norman Taylor Taylor Taylor Tay Tay- lor to launch the first ferry in 1882 or 1883 I The first ferry was only 28 feet long the records Indicate Later one John Gordon came here to help Taylor build a larger boat 60 GO feet long and 18 feet wide Taylor either operated or leased It until It was purchased purchased purchased pur pur- chased by the county In 1897 I IThe The county then was responsible for Its I operation until tho present one-lane one old oldbridge oldbridge I bridge was completed In early 1912 The ferry was operated on a money on the line basis older residents recall Faun McConkle McConkie Tanners Tanner's History of 01 Moab says saysa a sign posted on the boat at one time read I We to accumulate In God i we trust all others spot cash Under private ownership the fee lee for crossing was for a team and wagon or for horse four-horse team A rider paid 1 for himself and his mount 50 cents more If he had a pack horse Loose horses were 25 cents each Indians generally paid for their crossing with blankets it Is recalled After the county took over the ferry the charge for lor a wagon and team was lowered to 50 cents |