Woodland Ferry

The nonprofit Woodland Ferry Association was formed in 1993 to organize the 200th anniversary celebration of the ferry. The group tirelessly continues its work promoting the ferry and surrounding historical sites, such as Cannon Hall and the Woodland United Methodist Church. The Association is also responsible for planning and hosting the annual Woodland Ferry Festival. Another project is the maintenance of the beautiful Woodland Ferry Park. In the summer of 1999, the Association began development of Woodland Ferry Park South on the Bethel-Laurel side of the Nanticoke River. Members promote the unique Woodland Ferry and the village of Woodland with several large signs at key locations throughout Western Sussex County.

The sale of Woodland Ferry souvenirs, proceeds from the Festival, and grants from the State of Delaware allow the Association to further its work.

The Woodland Ferry was once known as "Cannon's Ferry" because it was owned and operated by the Isaac Cannon family. The Cannons received the official permit to operate the ferry from the State of Delaware in 1793. At that time the ferry carried horses, carriages, wagons, coaches and people. In the early days, the trip across the currents was difficult. the power to propel the ferry was supplied by the ferrymen, a horse, ropes and notched poles. Even the passengers were expected to help.

This laborious method continued until 1930 when an automobile engine was fastened on the side , and a steel cable was attached to the ferry and strung along the bottom of the river. The cable was tightened and loosened by means of a winch which afforded a way of keeping the ferry under control.

Before 1935, when the State of Delaware assumed ownership of the ferry, the ferryman lived in the ferry house opposite the slip on the Seaford side of the Nanticoke River. He was not required to operate the ferry at night but often did so, if someone offered him a tip.

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