Olds Ferry

In 1863, Reuben Olds acquired a franchise from the Territorial Legislature and began operating Olds Ferry. The ferry business did well as it diverted much of the traffic from the old Snake River crossing point at Old Fort Boise. Increasing settlement on the Weiser River valley increased Weiser’s population.

Olds Ferry crossed the Snake River between Weiser Idaho and Huntington Oregon for many decades. Travel was a lot more of an adventure before strips of asphalt connected every point. Stopping at a major river to wait for a ferry to carry you to the other side, now seems so quaint and relaxed.

Olds Ferry was established by Reuben P. Olds and associates in 1863. In 1865, Olds formed a partnership with William Packwood and John Parton, known as the Oregon Road, Bridge and Ferry Company. In addition to Olds Ferry, the company also owned the Washoe and Central ferries. The group dissolved its holdings in 1868, and William Green became the proprietor of the Olds Ferry. The ferry remained in operation under various owners until 1920, when it was purchased by some sheepmen and taken down the river to Brownlee.

From Historic Hood River Museum