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Cannon Ferry Ledger

1 overize box (1.5 linear feet)

(1835, 1888)

Edward H. Nabb Center for Delmarva History and Culture, Salisbury, University, Salisbury, Maryland

Identifier 2015.012b
Creator(s) Neal, J.L.
Acquisition

The Cannon Ferry Ledger was donated to the Nabb Research Center by Charles Colbourne, January 2015. 
Language(s) English
Use Records are open for research. Copyright, including literary rights, belongs to the author(s) or their legal heirs. Permission to publish or reproduce must be obtained from the Nabb Research Center which extends beyond "fair use."
Preferred Citation "Item, collection title and identifier, box # and folder # (if applicable), Edward H. Nabb Research Center for Delmarva History and Culture, Salisbury University, Salisbury, Maryland."
Attribution Finding aid written by Hallie Kroll, January 2015.
Related Materials None
Separated Materials See Nabb Center Staff
Abstract

Cannon Ferry Ledger, January-December 1835. The Cannon Ferry Ledger details the transactions between customers and those operating the ferry. Mr. J. L. Neal was in control of the ferry and ledger circa 1885-1888, and his personal papers and business documents have been pasted into the ledger. The transcribed ledger is attached.

Administrative History

The ferry is one of the oldest, if not the oldest, ferries in continuous operation in the United States. In addition to its longevity, the ferry is also of historical importance, being one of the locations where slave runner Patty Cannon embarked with kidnapped runaway slaves and free blacks, selling them back into servitude in Georgia.

The Ferry was established in the 1740s by James Cannon, and operated by his son Jacob after his death. After Jacob's death in 1793, his widow petitioned the Delaware General Assembly for exclusive rights to operate a ferry service across the river. The ferry was privately operated by the Cannon family until the mid-19th century when the General Assembly authorized the county to operate a free ferry at the location of "Cannon's Ferry".

In 1935 the Delaware Department of Transportation assumed responsibility for the operation of the ferry and has continued to operate it into the 21st century.

Arrangement Statement See Nabb Center Staff

Subject Terms

  • Topical Terms
    • Ledger
    • Accounting Records
    • Transportation
  • Location Terms
    • Reliance (De.)

Inventory List

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Artifacts

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Attachments

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