Connecticut River Ferries with Prof. Wick Griswold

America’s oldest continuously operating ferry service began running between Rocky Hill and Glastonbury in 1655. More than one hundred ferries have operated on the Connecticut River since the seventeenth century. Explore the enduring cultural relevance of the ferryboats of the Connecticut River with Professor Wick Griswold at the Essex Library on Tuesday, October 22 at 7 p.m. Hear about the stories of the captains, crews and passengers define the history and personality of the region. Learn how Captain Ham Sandwich got his name. Discover the bond between Katharine Hepburn and a real ferry queen, Cathey LaBonte.

Wick Griswold is an associate professor of sociology at the University of Hartford. His books include A History of the Connecticut River, Griswold Point: History from the Mouth of the Connecticut River and Pirates and Privateers of Connecticut. He also hosts a Connecticut River radio program.

This program is free and open to the public. For more information or to register, please call the Essex Library at (860) 767-1560. The Essex Library is located at 33 West Ave. in Essex.