Rome Ferry

Smith County, Tennessee's Rome Ferry began in the mid 1840s, as a method of safely crossing the Cumberland River, and connecting the communities of Dixon Springs and Beasley's Bend with the Rome community. The Ferry historically crossed the Cumberland at a point 740 feet wide. The Rome Ferry was used by farmers, merchants, as well as Civil War soldiers. Use of the Rome Ferry was always free, as the entire operation was funded by the Smith County Government. There are reports that during an 1862 raid, Confederate General John Hunt Morgan and his troops, used the Rome Ferry to escape. In 1949, Smith County purchased a new ferryboat (pictured above) dubbed the "Jere Mitchell." This boat is flat bottom, steel hulled, and was one of the only on-board power sternwheelers of its time. The Jere Mitchell was capable of ferrying four cars, and six passengers, in one trip. Its crew consisted of a single captain and a mate. During its years of operation, the Jere Mitchell transported approximately fifty cars per day. In 1986, the Rome Ferry was listed in the National Register of Historic Places for its historical significance. The Rome Ferry and the Jere Mitchell continued in operation until 1992. The rise of automobiles, and the construction of bridges across the Cumberland River were the major factors in the Rome Ferry's closure. The Jere Mitchell was parked on the banks of the Cumberland, where it continues to rest today.

The Rome Ferry and the Jere Mitchell in its heyday.

At Moore Historical Consulting my #1 priority is historic preservation. Do you own a historic home, commercial building, or farm? If so contact me today to learn more about the historic preservation strategies I offer. These include nominations to the National Register of Historic Places, nominations for a Permanent Conservation Easement, nominations to the Century Farms program, and writing text for historic makers. At Moore Historical Consulting I make exploring and preserving your past fun and easy.