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The Oxford Bellevue Ferry will launch its 341st year of operation at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, when it opens for the 2024 season and the town’s Oxford Day celebration.
Oxford Bellevue Ferry Opens in Time for Oxford Day
The Oxford Bellevue Ferry will launch its 341st year of operation at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, when it opens for the 2024 season and the town’s Oxford Day celebration.
The day marks a milestone for Captains Judy and Tom Bixler. The couple begins their 23nd year as the owners of the country’s oldest privately owned ferry even as they begin the search for their successors.
“The ferry is a part of the very fabric of our lives, and we want the next owners to feel that way too,” says Capt. Judy. “It may take some time to find the right buyer, and we’re okay with that. It’s important to us that the proud heritage of the Oxford Bellevue Ferry continues.”
History of the Oxford Bellevue Ferry
In its 340-year history, the ferry has only changed hands a few times. “Our tenure is only a chapter in the history of the Oxford Bellevue Ferry, and we feel blessed to have been the keeper of this special piece of American history all these years,” Capt. Judy continues.
Of course, the ferryboat itself is not 341 years old. When the ferry route first connected Oxford and Bellevue in 1683, the boat was outfitted with sails and propelled by human scullers. Next came a wooden scow, towed by a coal-fired steam tug. Eventually a larger scow was pushed by a gasoline-powered tug.
The first self-propelled ferryboat was built in Oxford in 1931. Modernization continued as a wooden six-car ferry was brought to the area in 1974. Today’s ferry was built in 1980 and is named Talbot. It measures 65 feet in length and will hold about nine full-size cars. The record is 18 Mini Coopers, loaded for a photo op in 2007.
Last year, Talbot was completely renovated, with sandblasting and repainting from stem to stern. “The current ferry is built of steel,” says Capt. Tom. “She has two engines, one on either end. This keeps us from having to turn the boat around every time we cross the Tred Avon River.”
The Oxford Bellevue Ferry – A Crown Jewel of Talbot County
The ferry provides transportation service for vehicles, bicycles, motorcycles, and passengers between the incorporated town of Oxford and the historic working watermen’s community of Bellevue. It offers both an entrance into Oxford by water when coming from Bellevue, and it’s a shortcut for those headed to St. Michaels and Tilghman Island.
These days, the beloved ferry is as much a tourist attraction as it is a form of transportation. It is strategically positioned on the Chesapeake County All-American Road, a national scenic byway, and is on a bike route that has been named one of the top in the country.
“The ferry is certainly an asset for us,” says Cassandra Vanhooser, director of economic development and tourism for Talbot County. “No visit to Talbot County is complete without a visit to Oxford and ride on the ferry. Riding the ferry is a cherished right of passage for locals and visitors alike.”
Capt. Judy is no stranger to tourism. She serves as chairman of both Maryland’s Tourism Development Board and Talbot County’s Tourism Board. She says the ferry is often referred to as the “Icon of Talbot County,” and that’s an image she and her husband have worked hard to preserve.
“People often ask us if we get bored going back and forth across the river, but no two trips are ever the same,” Capt. Judy explains. “Things are always changing. The wildlife we encounter, the watermen’s boats we dance with, the passengers we welcome aboard vary with each trip —it’s never boring.”
Searching for new owners is bittersweet, the Bixlers confess, but they are committed to seeing the history continue.
“We do not plan to leave the area, and we will be here to assist in a smooth transition,” Capt. Judy stresses. “Until then, we will carry on, and we invite you to join us to create your very own ‘Ferry Tale’ in Oxford.”
Blessing of the Oxford Bellevue Ferry
In a time-honored tradition, Rev. Kevin Cross will bless the ferry on Friday, April 26, at 6 p.m. at the Oxford Ferry Dock. Festivities continue on Oxford Day, scheduled for Saturday, April 27, with a hometown parade, 10K run, dog show, children’s Olympics, and band and choral concerts in the park.
The ferry operates daily through October, then the first two weekends in November. It shuttles back and forth across the Tred Avon River daily, beginning at 9 a.m. and makes its last trip before sunset. Call 410-745-9023 for the exact times of the final trip each day.
For more information, visit OxfordFerry.com.
- chesapeake bay, eastern shore, Events, Judy Bixler, Maryland, oxford, Oxford Bellevue Ferry, Oxford Day, talbot county, things to do, Things to Do in Talbot County, Tom Bixler, visit Talbot County
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Easton, Maryland has been noted as a perfect weekend getaway on USA Today`s 10Best! Known for its seafood and festivals, the charming town comes alive this time of year as a top vacation or getaway location. Check out the full article to start planning your trip to Easton today! https://10best.usatoday.com/interests/explore/easton-maryland-trip-planner/
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MORE INFO HERE ⬇️ 📣 tell us your favorite things to do in & near St. Michaels! 📌 SAVE our itinerary for St. Michaels, Maryland📌 💎 What a gem of a town!! The area is so cute and the people were so kind too! DAY 1: DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4
stmichaelsmd
🔑 Check-in to tremezzo_stay Chesapeake Mansion (1 of their 4 properties in St. Michaels)
🛝 play & explore the house
🍴 dinner at the mansion
☀️ breakfast & play at the mansion
🛶 Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum: spent about 2 hours exploring, learning & playing chesapeakemaritime
🍴 lunch at Limoncello
🍦 JoJo’s ice cream
🚶🏻 walk Talbot St., St. Michaels
🎄 The Christmas Shop: we pick our an ornament to commemorate our travels
🛝 Perry Cabin Park
💦 pool time!
🍴 dinner at mansion
🔥 campfire
☀️ breakfast at mansion
🎣 fishing on the private pier of Chesapeake Mansion
🌳 visited Wylder Hotel Tilghman Island wylderhotelti
🍴 Tilghman Island General Store: sandwiches & snacks
🏒 play time at the mansion: croquet, billiards, playground
☀️ breakfast at mansion
🔐 check out of Chesapeake Mansion
🌳 Waterfront Park
🚗 drive home
🌟 We went during the off-season so lots of things had limited hours and we didn’t get to do any boat tours or kayak rentals that we would do again if we went during peak season time!
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MORE INFO HERE ⬇️ 📣 tell us your favorite things to do in & near St. Michaels! 📌 SAVE our itinerary for St. Michaels, Maryland📌 💎 What a gem of a town!! The area is so cute and the people were so kind too! DAY 1: DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 🌟 We went during the off-season so lots of things had limited hours and we didn’t get to do any boat tours or kayak rentals that we would do again if we went during peak season time!
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🔑 Check-in to tremezzo_stay Chesapeake Mansion (1 of their 4 properties in St. Michaels)
🛝 play & explore the house
🍴 dinner at the mansion
☀️ breakfast & play at the mansion
🛶 Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum: spent about 2 hours exploring, learning & playing chesapeakemaritime
🍴 lunch at Limoncello
🍦 JoJo’s ice cream
🚶🏻 walk Talbot St., St. Michaels
🎄 The Christmas Shop: we pick our an ornament to commemorate our travels
🛝 Perry Cabin Park
💦 pool time!
🍴 dinner at mansion
🔥 campfire
☀️ breakfast at mansion
🎣 fishing on the private pier of Chesapeake Mansion
🌳 visited Wylder Hotel Tilghman Island wylderhotelti
🍴 Tilghman Island General Store: sandwiches & snacks
🏒 play time at the mansion: croquet, billiards, playground
☀️ breakfast at mansion
🔐 check out of Chesapeake Mansion
🌳 Waterfront Park
🚗 drive home
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Don’t miss this Miles River Waterfront Property! One of a kind views ! Easy boating to historic St Michaels schedule an appointment today
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Don`t miss rising star Mari Black live in the historic Avalon Theatre`s Stoltz Listening Room TONIGHT, April 28th! Mari Black delights audiences around the world with her energetic playing, sparkling stage presence, and dazzlingly virtuosic fiddling. Check for ticket availability NOW! https://tourtalbot.org/event/mari-black-2/
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#talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @discovereaston @townofstmichaels @PortOfOxford #trappemd @MariBlackMusic @avalontheatre ...
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The Talbot County Parks & Rec Community Yard Sale is back TOMORROW, April 27th! This is your chance to find some amazing deals on new, unique items. For full details: https://talbotparks.org/special-events/
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The Talbot County Parks & Rec Community Yard Sale is back TOMORROW, April 27th! This is your chance to find some amazing deals on new, unique items. For full details: https://talbotparks.org/special-events/
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#talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @discovereaston @townofstmichaels @PortOfOxford #trappemd @talbotparksandrec ...
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The Oxford Bellevue Ferry opens for its 341st season this weekend. Kick the weekend off in Experience Oxford MD with the Blessing of the Oxford Bellevue Ferry on Friday, followed by Oxford Day on Saturday. https://tourtalbot.org/oxford-bellevue-ferry-celebrates-341-years/ #oxforddaymd #talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @portofoxford
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The Oxford Bellevue Ferry opens for its 341st season this weekend. Kick the weekend off in Experience Oxford MD with the Blessing of the Oxford Bellevue Ferry on Friday, followed by Oxford Day on Saturday. https://tourtalbot.org/oxford-bellevue-ferry-celebrates-341-years/ #oxforddaymd #talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @portofoxford ...
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Did you know today, April 25th, is Talbot County`s official birthday? Join the celebration hosted by the Talbot County Council happening today on the Courthouse Lawn, starting at 5 p.m. Through the end of April, you can explore Talbot County by playing Talbot Bingo! Don`t forget to share your pictures and favorite things about this amazing place in the comments below. #TalbotDay https://www.talbotcountymd.gov/talbotday #talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @discovereaston @townofstmichaels @PortOfOxford #trappemd
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Did you know today, April 25th, is Talbot County`s official birthday? Join the celebration hosted by the Talbot County Council happening today on the Courthouse Lawn, starting at 5 p.m. Through the end of April, you can explore Talbot County by playing Talbot Bingo! Don`t forget to share your pictures and favorite things about this amazing place in the comments below. #TalbotDay https://www.talbotcountymd.gov/talbotday #talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @discovereaston @townofstmichaels @PortOfOxford #trappemd
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Indulge in the culinary delights of the Taste of St. Michaels on April 27th! This delicious event features samplings from over 20 of the town`s finest restaurants. Enjoy live music, local brews, and stunning waterfront views as you savor the diverse flavors St. Michaels has to offer. Get your tickets today! https://tourtalbot.org/event/taste-of-st-michaels-2/
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#talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @discovereaston @townofstmichaels @PortOfOxford #trappemd #tasteofstmichaels
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Indulge in the culinary delights of the Taste of St. Michaels on April 27th! This delicious event features samplings from over 20 of the town`s finest restaurants. Enjoy live music, local brews, and stunning waterfront views as you savor the diverse flavors St. Michaels has to offer. Get your tickets today! https://tourtalbot.org/event/taste-of-st-michaels-2/
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Enjoy Movie Night at The Ebenezer featuring "Hidalgo" on April 26th! Hidalgo follows the epic story of a down-and-out cowboy and his mustang racing across the Arabian desert. ️ Doors open at 7 PM, movie starts at 7:30 PM. Popcorn, pizza, and drinks will be available for purchase. Grab your friends for a fun night out! https://tourtalbot.org/event/movie-night-at-the-ebenezer-hidalgo/
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Enjoy Movie Night at The Ebenezer featuring "Hidalgo" on April 26th! Hidalgo follows the epic story of a down-and-out cowboy and his mustang racing across the Arabian desert. ️ Doors open at 7 PM, movie starts at 7:30 PM. Popcorn, pizza, and drinks will be available for purchase. Grab your friends for a fun night out! https://tourtalbot.org/event/movie-night-at-the-ebenezer-hidalgo/
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Legends of the Fall 🍁 (Prints available. Link in bio)
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#adventurejournal #fall #visitmaryland #marylandeasternshore #easternshore #folkgood #wanderfolk #adventureseeker #natureshooters #tinyatlasquarterly #justgoshoot #capturethewild #wildnature #coastalliving #coastal #wanderout #leafpeeping #autumnleaves #mutedtones #waterways #mytinyatlas #earthfocus #earthoutdoors #outdoortones #northeast #captured_by_women #toneception #moodmagic #earthday #earthofficial
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Legends of the Fall 🍁 (Prints available. Link in bio)
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Mark your calendars! Oxford Day is returning April 27th! The day kicks off with the heartwarming Blessing of the Pets followed by the Talbot Humane Dog Walk. The annual parade promises a delightful mix of floats, fire engines, and bands. Throughout the day, enjoy delicious food, explore the Oxford Museum, and take part in family-friendly activities. Don`t miss this chance to celebrate the spirit of Oxford! https://oxfordday.org/
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If you live on the DelMarVa Peninsula or within driving distance please join me at the Art League of Ocean City`s Opening Reception on May 3rd from 5pm to 7pm for the Working Artists Forum "Spring Fling" exhibition. I will have 3 pastel paintings in the show. Friendly faces of friends and my collectors will be so welcome. #artexhibition #workingartistsforum #easternshoremd #delmarvalife #artlover #artcollectors #finearts #pastelpainting #pastelartist #artistlife #contemporarypainting #instaart #boldbrush
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If you live on the DelMarVa Peninsula or within driving distance please join me at the Art League of Ocean City`s Opening Reception on May 3rd from 5pm to 7pm for the Working Artists Forum "Spring Fling" exhibition. I will have 3 pastel paintings in the show. Friendly faces of friends and my collectors will be so welcome. #artexhibition #workingartistsforum #easternshoremd #delmarvalife #artlover #artcollectors #finearts #pastelpainting #pastelartist #artistlife #contemporarypainting #instaart #boldbrush ...
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💯FIELD TO SHORE 2024!! Celebrate the arrival of spring with our seasonal feast, featuring a five-course meal made with market-fresh ingredients by notable local chefs, all to benefit the independent, nonprofit SMFM! Here’s what you need to know: 👉When: Tuesday, May 7, 2024, 6 p.m. 🪑Seating is limited and will go fast!
👉Where: The Oaks, 25876 Royal Oak Road, Easton, MD
👉What: A five-course meal, including appetizers and dessert, by five acclaimed regional chefs!
👉Who: Steven Kenny of the James Beard Award-winning Woodberry Kitchen in Baltimore, Jordan Lloyd of Hambleton House, Bocuse d’Or USA Finals winner Corey Siegel, Doug Stewart of The Oaks and Bistro St. Michaels, and Amanda Cook of Tilghman Island Baking Co.
👉Price: Each ticket is $150, which includes 20% gratuity.
👉Etc. Cash bar available.
🎟️To purchase your ticket, go to the link in our bio.
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#loveyourfarmer #fieldtoshore #mightylocal #supportlocal #stmichaelsmd
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💯FIELD TO SHORE 2024!! Celebrate the arrival of spring with our seasonal feast, featuring a five-course meal made with market-fresh ingredients by notable local chefs, all to benefit the independent, nonprofit SMFM! Here’s what you need to know: 👉When: Tuesday, May 7, 2024, 6 p.m. 🪑Seating is limited and will go fast!
👉Where: The Oaks, 25876 Royal Oak Road, Easton, MD
👉What: A five-course meal, including appetizers and dessert, by five acclaimed regional chefs!
👉Who: Steven Kenny of the James Beard Award-winning Woodberry Kitchen in Baltimore, Jordan Lloyd of Hambleton House, Bocuse d’Or USA Finals winner Corey Siegel, Doug Stewart of The Oaks and Bistro St. Michaels, and Amanda Cook of Tilghman Island Baking Co.
👉Price: Each ticket is $150, which includes 20% gratuity.
👉Etc. Cash bar available.
🎟️To purchase your ticket, go to the link in our bio.
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#loveyourfarmer #fieldtoshore #mightylocal #supportlocal #stmichaelsmd
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The Eastern Shore will Celebrate Trails Day on April 27th! Enjoy your local trails while sharing appreciation for the ways that trails make an impact on our lives and communities. Pick from six local participating locations, including one in Oxford. So what are you waiting for? Register today! https://www.eslc.org/celebratetrails/
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The Eastern Shore will Celebrate Trails Day on April 27th! Enjoy your local trails while sharing appreciation for the ways that trails make an impact on our lives and communities. Pick from six local participating locations, including one in Oxford. So what are you waiting for? Register today! https://www.eslc.org/celebratetrails/
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The Eastern Shore Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival starts TODAY - April 20th - 21st! Head to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum to browse unique creations from over 90 artisans. Find sea glass jewelry, coastal home decor, stunning art, and more. Live music, delicious food, and beautiful historic surroundings will make it a perfect weekend getaway. Grab your tickets now! https://tourtalbot.org/event/eastern-shore-sea-glass-coastal-arts-festival-2/
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#talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @discovereaston @townofstmichaels @PortOfOxford #trappemd @chesapeakemaritime #seaglass #seaglassfestival @easternshoreseaglassfestival
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The Eastern Shore Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival starts TODAY - April 20th - 21st! Head to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum to browse unique creations from over 90 artisans. Find sea glass jewelry, coastal home decor, stunning art, and more. Live music, delicious food, and beautiful historic surroundings will make it a perfect weekend getaway. Grab your tickets now! https://tourtalbot.org/event/eastern-shore-sea-glass-coastal-arts-festival-2/
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#talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @discovereaston @townofstmichaels @PortOfOxford #trappemd @chesapeakemaritime #seaglass #seaglassfestival @easternshoreseaglassfestival ...
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Celebrate #NationalBikeDay with a scenic ride through Talbot County! Explore the Chesapeake Country All-American Road or plan your own adventure using our comprehensive bike guides today: https://tourtalbot.org/bike-talbot-guide/
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#talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @discovereaston @townofstmichaels @PortOfOxford #trappemd #nationalbikeday #bikeguide
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Celebrate #NationalBikeDay with a scenic ride through Talbot County! Explore the Chesapeake Country All-American Road or plan your own adventure using our comprehensive bike guides today: https://tourtalbot.org/bike-talbot-guide/
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#talbotcountymd #mdinfocus @discovereaston @townofstmichaels @PortOfOxford #trappemd #nationalbikeday #bikeguide ...
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