The New York State Canal System: A History Beyond the Erie

Journey along historic waterways of the Empire State! New York's unique and majestic canals stretch more than 524 miles from Albany to Buffalo and from Tompkins and Schuyler Counties to the Quebec border. The Empire State's canal system has been in continuous operation since 1825, longer than any other man-made transportation system in North America. The System includes the iconic nation-building Erie Canal and the numerous waterways that connected towns like Seneca Falls with the Mohawk Valley. Deemed a historic corridor by the federal parks system, the canals remain little changed since the 1920s and are a living museum of analog engineering. Until recently, the canals were worked by antique steel-hulled tugs and workboats, several of which are recognized as national landmarks. Join author Susan P. Gateley as she revelas the history and beauty of New York State's grand canal system.