Vessel history

TxDOT has operated ferries since 1934. TxDOT has operated 12 ferry vessels over 90 years, listed below are the ferries operated:

• Galveston (1934-1950)
• Jefferson (1934-1950)
• Cone Johnson (1950- Mid 1990s)
• R.S. Sterling (1950- Late 1990s)
• E.H. Thornton (1958- Late 1990s)
• Gibb Gilchrist (1977-Present)
• Robert C. Lanier (1991-Present)
• Dewitt C. Greer (1994-Present)
• Ray Stoker Jr. (1996-Present)
• Robert H. Deadman (1998-Present)
• John W. Johnson (2011-Present)
• Esperanza “Hope” Andrade (2023-Present)

TxDOT has operated landings from 1934 to present, ranging from two landings (Galveston at present location/Bolivar at Fort Travis (Fort Travis location moved sometime in the early 50’s)) one on each side increasing over the years from the original two, increasing to 4 (beginning in the early 80’s) and increased to 6 in mid the 2000’s.