The History of Edmonds Ferry and Kingston Ferry: Connecting Communities for Generations
Ferry transportation has long been an important part of life in the Pacific Northwest. With its winding waterways and rugged coastline, the region is uniquely suited to waterborne travel. For generations, ferries have provided a vital link between communities, serving as a lifeline for commuters, tourists, and commercial vehicles. Among the many ferry routes in the region, the Edmonds-Kingston route stands out as one of the oldest and most important.
1870s-1910s: Early Days and Private Ownership
The history of the Edmonds ferry route dates back to the late 19th century. In the 1870s, a private company, the Puget Sound Navigation Company, began operating a ferry service between Edmonds and Kingston. At the time, the route was served by a small, wooden ferry, the Teekalet. The Teekalet could carry up to 18 passengers and was powered by a single steam engine.
In the early 20th century, the Puget Sound Navigation Company continued to operate the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route, adding new vessels to the fleet, including the Mosquito Fleet, which could carry up to 300 passengers. These vessels helped to meet the growing demand for transportation services in the region.
1920s-1950s: State Ownership and Modernization
In the 1920s, the State of Washington assumed control of the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route, as well as many other ferry routes in the region. The state invested in new vessels and infrastructure improvements, helping to modernize the ferry system and improve the overall passenger experience.
During the 1930s and 1940s, the state introduced new vessels to the Edmonds-Kingston route, including the Rhododendron and the Kehloken. These vessels could carry up to 100 cars and 1,200 passengers, making them some of the largest and most efficient vessels in the fleet.
In the 1950s, the state continued to invest in the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route, adding new vessels and infrastructure improvements. The state also introduced new technologies, such as radar and electronic navigation systems, to improve the safety and efficiency of the ferry system.
1960s: Growth and Expansion
In the 1960s, the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route saw significant growth and expansion, as the population of the region continued to increase. To meet the growing demand, the state added new vessels to the fleet, including the Evergreen State, which could carry up to 87 cars and 1,500 passengers.
During this time, the state also invested in improvements to the docks and terminals, adding new amenities such as covered waiting areas, food and beverage vendors, and public restrooms. These improvements helped to make ferry travel more convenient and comfortable for passengers.
1970s-1990s: Upgrades and Modernization
In the 1970s, the state continued to invest in the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route, making significant upgrades and improvements to the vessels and infrastructure. The state introduced new vessels, such as the Wenatchee and the Puyallup, which could carry up to 206 cars and 2,500 passengers.
The state also introduced new amenities, such as Wi-Fi and charging stations, to improve the passenger experience. In addition, the state began to explore new technologies, such as hybrid propulsion systems and alternative fuels, to reduce emissions and improve the sustainability of the ferry system.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the state continued to modernize the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route, investing in new vessels, docks, and terminals. The state introduced new vessels such as the Spokane and the Tacoma, which could carry up to 202 cars and 2,500 passengers.
The state also invested in new technologies to improve the safety and efficiency of the ferry system, including automated docking systems and digital communication systems.
2000s-2020s: Challenges and Innovation
In the 2000s, the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route faced a number of challenges, including increasing demand for transportation services, aging vessels and infrastructure, and budget constraints. To address these challenges, the state introduced new measures to improve the efficiency and sustainability of the ferry system.
The state introduced new vessels, such as the Chetzemoka and the Salish, which were designed to be more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly. The state also introduced new technologies, such as real-time tracking and scheduling systems, to improve the reliability and convenience of the ferry system.
In recent years, the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route has continued to evolve and innovate. The state has introduced new vessels, such as the Suquamish and the Samish, which can carry up to 144 cars and 1,500 passengers. The state has also explored new technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cells and electric propulsion systems, to reduce emissions and improve the sustainability of the ferry system.
Conclusion
In my modest opinion, the history of the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route is a testament to the enduring importance of ferry transportation in the Pacific Northwest. For over a century, this route has provided a vital link between communities, connecting people and goods across the water. Through the years, the ferry system has evolved and adapted to changing times, introducing new vessels, technologies, and amenities to meet the needs of passengers and the environment. Today, the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route remains an essential part of the region’s transportation infrastructure, and a symbol of the enduring spirit of innovation and collaboration that has defined the Pacific Northwest for generations.