Most Montanans travel to their jobs by motor vehicle. But our area is also home to a unique method of transportation, allowing passengers to take a boat to work. For nealy 100 years, the Virgelle Ferry has transported people and vehicles across the Missouri River.

Fifteen miles south of Big Sandy is the town of Virgelle, population 20. It's the home of one of a handful of operating cable ferries left in the United States. Beverly Terry operates the ferry, providing travelers with a shortcut between Havre and Lewistown.

"I enjoy meeting all the people. It's fun," Terry said. "They come from all over the world. This year we even had someone from Switzerland."

Each year about 3,000 visitors and locals cross the Missouri river on the Virgelle Ferry.

This couple is visiting all the way from Wisconsin.

"We are staying in Ft. Benton and we saw a sign that said 19 miles to Virgelle Ferry," said Melinda. "So we thought we'd take a ride.

"Thisis special to experience part of the west," said Kit.

The ferry includes a 50-foot steel frame and is complete with a three cylinder diesel engine. A trip across the river takes three to five minutes each way.

"I live in Loma and I work in Virgelle," said Justina. "Last summer i took the ferry every day.

Since 1913 the Virgelle Ferry has provided transportation to those desiring to cross the river. And Beverly Terry has played a vital role in that history.

"My family has operated this sine 1960. I have seen so many changes and to be a part of that has been exciting.

Operated by the Chouteau County Road Service, The ferry operates from mid April to mid November. It is free of charge.