The ferry Herbert C. Bonner made many a Pamlico River crossing between Aurora and Bath. I rode it more than a few times myself. It made other crossings, too, including right many between Hatteras and Ocracoke.

The Bonner was retired and sold in the spring of this year. Here it is chocked up on the marine rail at T.B. Smith Seafood in Beaufort, NC. Gerry Smith says the 120-foot hull sets a new record (by 15 feet) for his rail. The Bonner is getting a touching up and tune up before heading for service in more southern climes.

Get a last peek at the Bonner here.