Before the Holt Ferry, mail and supplies crossed the South Fork of the Snake River in a heavy wire basket on a cable. In 1894, Richard C. Heise came from Pocatello after reading of the healing properties of the mineral springs, homesteaded the property containing the warm sulphur springs, later started the Heise Hot Springs Health Resort, called in labor to help develop roads, and had a ferry built at the same location as the cable. In 1907, as demand for ferry services grew, Elof Nelson built another ferry across the river just below the present concrete and steel bridge, built a home on the side hill above the river, and installed a bell system so anyone needing to cross could ring for the Nelsons. Nelson and his sons operated this ferry until 1919, when he sold his properties to M. Eugene Holt, who operated the ferry until 1938, when the bridge was built. The ferry gave early pioneers a way to cross the river, leading many to settle along the north side of the Snake River, and their hard work, hardships, and perseverance contributed to the abundance enjoyed today.