The Beginning
In 1948, Alaskan residents Steve Home and Ray Gelotte started the Alaska Marine Highway, using a converted landing craft that they named the M/V Chilkoot.
The Fifties
By 1951, the highway was facing financial ruin. The territorial government took over operations and ownership of the business. In 1957, the original ship was replaced by the MV/Chilkat, which became the first state-owned ferry in 1959.
The Sixties
In 1963, the government changed the name, making it the Alaska Marine Highway System. The system expanded that year, providing service to Rupert, British Columbia. The service was extended even further in 1967, when a terminal was installed in Seattle.
The Eighties
In 1989, the Bellingham terminal became the southern terminus, replacing Seattle.
The Nineties
In 1990, the legislature authorized a Vessel Replacement Fund. The M/V Kennicott became a part of the fleet and the AMHS started to include sailings across the gulf, called "inter-tie trips." This was a chance for the southeastern region of the state to connect with the southcentral and southwest areas.
The 21st Century
Two fast ferries joined the fleet in 2004, though plans to add two more were scrapped because of budget concerns. In 2005, the Federal Highway Administration listed the AMHS as an All-American Road. A cost and replacement study was initiated in 2007.
