Save the Bemus Point-Stow Ferry

The Bemus Point Stow Ferry on Chautauqua Lake has been running since 1811 and is one of only a few cable ferries left in the US. It used to be part of the. State Highway Department but now is operated by a volunteer organization every weekend throughout the summer season. It is a part of Chautauqua County history and a fond memory of childhood rides by many. It carries up to nine cars and many bikers, motorcyclists and foot traffic back and forth across the narrows of Chautauqua Lake, NY. 

She didn’t pass her yearly inspection this year and requires major structural repairs before it can be placed back in service. Our strong volunteer not-for-profit organization is small but very dedicated to keeping the Ferry running every summer. Our funding can start the job but we need major support from the pubilc to complete all the required repairs. 

We have lots of folks volunteering to do grunt work, specialized repairs and help us with the funding. What we need now is help from you. No donation is too small to do big things. The Sea Lion Project Ltd. has only one purpose, to keep the Ferry running every summer at the center of her community. Your help will be greatly appreciated