Cibola in La Paz County, Arizona — The American Mountains (Southwest)
Colorado River Ferries
Ferrymen plied their trade from Yuma to Pearce Ferry. The first ferry on the river was started at Yuma Crossing in 1849. Ferries operated into the 1900's.
Ferries furnished a vital service until railroads and highways replaced them.
Erected 1997 by Ancient and Honorable order of E. Clampus Vitus "Southern Alliance" John P. Squibob, Billy Holcomb, Lost Dutchman ECV. (Marker Number 103.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Places. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1849.
Location. 33° 22.533′ N, 114° 39.509′ W. Marker is in Cibola, Arizona, in La Paz County. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Cibola Road and Baseline Road. The marker is located at the park on the southwest corner of River Road, Cibola Road and Baseline Road junction. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Cibola AZ 85328, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 2 other markers are within 6 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Taylor's Ferry (approx. 5.8 miles away in California); Camp Gaston (approx. 5.9 miles away in California).
More about this marker. This marker was scheduled to be dedicated in 1997. Complications delayed the placement and the marker was dedicated with the Cibola marker at the same time on October 14, 2000. SOURCE: Billy Holcomb Chapter 1069 35th Anniversary Plaque Book by Phillip Holdaway
Regarding Colorado River Ferries. Some parties headed to California were able to pay Indians to convey their goods across the river on rafts before and after ferries were established. During the California Gold Rush, nearly 60,000 people crossed the Colorado River by ferry below Fort Yuma. Owning a ferry could be a lucrative business and a very dangerous occupation.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on June 13, 2010, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona. This page has been viewed 2,017 times since then and 59 times this year. Last updated on November 3, 2014, by Michael Kindig of Elk Grove, California. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on June 13, 2010, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.