Old Dominion News

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) marked the 100th anniversary of the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry service on February 26, bringing together ferry staff, families, and longtime passengers to celebrate this historical link across the James River.

The event began with a ceremonial ferry ride from Surry to Jamestown, replicating the inaugural journey of the ferryboat Capt. John Smith that first sailed on February 26, 1925, under Captain Albert Jester. The occasion was brought to life with a convoy of Model T and Model A automobiles aboard, carrying descendants of Jester, former ferry crew members, and community participants.

Following the ferry ride, attendees gathered at the Jamestown Settlement’s Education Center. Christopher Hall, district engineer for VDOT’s Hampton Roads District, opened the event by highlighting the significance of the ferry in connecting communities and facilitating transportation. "The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry is more than a mode of transportation; it’s a living link between Virginia’s past and present," Hall stated.

Virginia Commissioner of Highways Stephen C. Brich reaffirmed VDOT's dedication to preserving this essential connection between Surry County and James City County for future generations.

Al Jester, great-grandson of Captain Albert Jester, shared personal stories about his family's legacy intertwined with the ferry's history.

Guests were served ham sandwiches provided by the Edwards family in honor of S. Wallace Edwards Sr., Captain Jester’s son-in-law who began selling them to passengers in 1925. This venture later evolved into Edwards Virginia Smokehouse.

An exhibition showcasing historical memorabilia and archival photos was displayed courtesy of the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation and the Surry County Historical Society.