The Black River Canal ran from Rome, NY north to Lyons Falls. This feeder canal system connected the Erie Canal to the Black River and had profound economic impact on Rome and other communities where the canal flowed through.
In the city of Rome, the Black River Canal was filled in and is known today as Black River Boulevard. Sections of the original canal system are still visible in parts of Oneida County.
The Rome Historical Society will host a program about the history of the Black River Canal on Wednesday, May 11th.
William Engelbrecht, history teacher in the Adirondack School District, along with high school seniors Luke Brach & Sam McPhilmy, will present on the history of the Black River Canal. Engelbrecht is a former employee of the Black River Canal Museum in Boonville and has an interest in local history. This program will discuss the construction, the main uses, and legacy that the Black River Canal left behind.
This program will begin at 5:30 pm. The Rome Historical Society is located at 200 Church Street, in Rome. For more information, call (315) 336-5870 or visit their website.
Photo of Black River Canal courtesy Rome Historical Society.
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