Rome Ferry
There has probably been a ferry at Rome crossing the Cumberland River since the early 1800's.
John Hunt Morgan, famous Confederate Calvary officer, crossed here in the night as he was pursued
by Union soldiers. His horse, Black Bess, was captured and later displayed in the northern states.
Smith County purchased the ferry in 1929 from the private owners. In 1949 they purchased a steel
ferry and operated it until a few years ago when the operator died. This boat was named the
"JERE MITCHELL" in memory of WWII soldier killed in action. There is now an effort underway
by people living in Beasley's Bend to get the county to restore the ferry as it will save almost 20
miles of travel going to Lebanon or Nashville.