Lusk's Ferry, Illinois facts for kids
Former site of Lusk's Ferry, in Golconda, Illinois in 1927
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| Locale | Golconda, Pope County, Illinois or across the Ohio River in Livingston County, Kentucky |
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| Waterway | Ohio River |
| Transit type | Passenger/wagon ferry |
| Operator | James and Sarah Lusk |
| Began operation | 1797 |
| Ended operation | 1957 |
| No. of terminals | 2 |
Lusk's Ferry was an important place where early settlers and travelers crossed the Ohio River. It connected Kentucky and Illinois. Some people say the town of Golconda, Illinois was once called "Lusk's Ferry." Others believe the name referred to the spot across the river in Livingston County, Kentucky.
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An Important Crossing Point
Lusk's Ferry was the end point of the Lusk's Ferry Road. This was an old land route that linked the Ohio River to Fort Kaskaskia. In 1778, a famous leader named George Rogers Clark used this area. He crossed the Ohio River at Fort Massac. Then, he marched a short distance north to Lusk's Ferry Road. From there, he continued to Fort Kaskaskia. This journey was part of his efforts to take control of Illinois.
The Lusk Family and the Ferry
In 1798, Major James Lusk moved the ferry service to the Illinois side of the river. Sadly, Major Lusk died while he was building a road further into Illinois. His wife, Sarah Lusk, then took over the ferry business. She continued to run it.
The town that grew on the Illinois side became known as "Sarahville" by 1816. This was named after Sarah Lusk. In 1817, the town's name was changed to Golconda.
A Key Route for Travelers
In 1817, a book called the Western Gazetteer listed important places to cross the Ohio River. It also showed routes for traveling overland to the capital of the territory, Kaskaskia, Illinois. The shortest land journey from the Ohio River was from Lusk's Ferry. This shows how important Lusk's Ferry was for travel and trade in those early days.
The Trail of Tears
Lusk's Ferry also played a part in a sad time in American history. From 1838 to 1839, many thousands of Cherokee people were forced to move from their homes. This difficult journey is known as the Trail of Tears. During this time, many Cherokee people had to cross the Ohio River at Lusk's Ferry.
Lusk Creek
Near Golconda, a waterway called Lusk Creek flows into the Ohio River. This creek runs through a deep canyon. There are not many roads that cross this canyon. The area around Lusk Creek is now part of the Lusk Creek Wilderness Area. It is a protected natural space.
Images for kids
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Former site of Lusk's Ferry, in Golconda, Illinois in 1927
