Phillips' Ferry (Merced River) facts for kids

Phillips' Ferry was an important historical ferry that helped people cross the Merced River. It was located in what is now Merced County, California.

A Busy River Crossing

Phillips' Ferry was a very important spot in the 1800s. It was one of only three main places where people could cross the Merced River. These crossings were part of the old Stockton–Los Angeles Road. This road was a major route through the San Joaquin Valley.

The ferry was located about 2 miles (3.2 km) downstream from a fast-moving part of the river called Merced Falls. Phillips' Ferry was the first crossing below these falls. Further downstream were two other ferries: Belts Ferry (later called Murray's Ferry) and Young's Ferry.

Who Was John Phillips?

John Phillips was an Englishman who traveled to California in 1849. He first tried his luck in the gold mines. In 1851, he went back East to get his family. The next year, in 1852, he brought them to Mariposa County.

There, along the Merced River, John Phillips started his ferry business. He also opened a store to serve travelers.

In 1853, Phillips' Ferry became a special landmark. It was chosen as the point to mark the new boundary for Merced County. This new county was being created from parts of the original Mariposa County.

Eventually, a new bridge was built nearby for $12,000. This bridge made it much easier to cross the river. Over time, the ferries, including Phillips' Ferry, could not compete with the bridge. John Phillips later moved to a town called Hornitos.

Today, the place where Phillips' Ferry once operated is marked by a modern bridge. This bridge carries the Hornitos Road across the Merced River.