Menors Ferry

Siting my first Elk of my visit.

J. Pierce Cunningham settled in this area in the 1880s.  Originally opposed to expansion of Grand Teton NP, he later became an advocate and along with 97 other ranchers signed a petition to sell their lands to form a national recreation area.

The Cunningham cabin was a dogtrot style cabin.

A replica of the original ferry which William Menor built to ferry settler of the Jackson Hole Valley across the Snake River.  He charged 50cents for a wagon or 25cents for a horse and rider back in the late 1800s.

William Menor's general store, now a gift shop.  

He built a well next to the Snake River to filter muddy water during spring runoff.

The cables and workings for the ferry crossing.  Usually the park provides an opportunity to experience this ferry crossing using the replica ferry, but this year the river has been too high.  They expect to maybe put in the ferry in several weeks, but I'll be gone.

Where they launch the ferry into the river.

Jackson Hole homesteader Geraldine Lucas used this Alaskan dog sled to carry supplies and visit neighbors in the early 1900s.

Prior to 1916, visitors to Yellowstone NP rode in this wagon.

Early 1800s mountain men used boats like this, called a bull boat, to carry furs and goods along the river.  Made from buffalo hides pulled tight over a willow frame, the fur trappers learned this skill from the local indians.

More blooming flowers.

The Maud Noble cabin, where in 1923 a landmark meeting was held with the superintendent of Yellowstone NP where a plan was launched for the creation of Grand Teton NP.  Maud Noble bought the ferry and store from William Menor in 1918.

The Chapel of the Transfiguration Episcopal.  Also located at Menors Ferry, it is open daily for visitors to come in and pray and services are held Sunday mornings.