Fairhope pier during the Bay boat era - circa early 1920's

Name/Title

Fairhope pier during the Bay boat era - circa early 1920's

Description

Arrival by bay boat/steamer from Mobile to the Eastern Shore was always a busy time. This photo may be on July 4th, or a holiday, since the Fairhope pier is so crowded. Note the wooden plants used by vehicles, as they were ferried across the bay on the steamers. The wharves on the Eastern Shore serviced the communities of Point Clear, Battles Wharf, Fairhope, Montrose and Daphne, before road improvements and the opening of the Mobile Causeway in 1927. The Fairhope pier was longer than others due to the shallow waters closer to land. As automobile ownership increased, so did improved roadways, causing the bay boat era to diminish; eventually the last bay boat stopped service by about 1933.

Create Date

March 17, 2022

Update Date

March 17, 2022