The Tennessee River and Commerce at Eaves Ferry

The Tennessee River has long been a lifeline for communities in Meigs County, and the Eaves family understood its importance firsthand. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, river transport was essential for moving goods, livestock, and people across the region. For the Eaves family, the river wasn’t just a backdrop—it was central to their livelihood.

Samuel S. Eaves operated a ferry service that connected Meigs County to neighboring communities, allowing farmers, merchants, and travelers to cross the Tennessee River safely and efficiently. Alongside the ferry, Samuel’s general merchandise store became a hub for trade, and his steamboat landing facilitated the movement of goods by water, linking Decatur to larger markets. These enterprises not only bolstered the local economy but also positioned the Eaves family as key players in the region’s commerce.

. A steamboat on the Tennessee River circa 1900.

The river itself shaped daily life. Steamboats brought mail, supplies, and news from distant towns, while the ferry provided a reliable crossing for people and livestock. The Eaves Ferry became more than a practical necessity—it was a gathering point, a small economic engine, and a vital link to the wider world.

Today, as we work to restore the Eaves House and preserve its history, we are reminded that this home was more than a residence—it was a center of commerce, connection, and community.

If you have old photographs, documents, or stories about the ferry, river trade, or the Eaves family’s commercial enterprises, we’d love to hear from you. Your contributions help us preserve a vital piece of local history.

Source Material:

• Meigs County Register of Deeds – Deed Books A–F (1825–1930)

  • Shows Eaves family land ownership along the Tennessee River and ferry rights.

• Meigs County Court Minutes (1835–1900)

  • Includes ferry license petitions, road orders, and ferry operation approvals.

• U.S. Census Records (1830–1940)

  • Document Samuel S. Eaves’ household, occupation, and family business listings.