The Champlain Canal, connecting the Hudson River at Waterford, NY, with Lake Champlain at Whitehall, NY, was built between 1817 and 1823, and was one of the first major canals in the United States. The canal helped shape the development of the Northeast, and was a major factor in the development of the region’s lumber and iron industries. The Canal is celebrating it’s bicentennial this year.
The Ticonderoga Historical Society will present a free public program on Friday, September 8 at 7 p.m. at the Hancock House Museum, 6 Moses Circle, Ticonderoga. “The Bicentennial of the Champlain Canal” will be presented by Brian O’Connor, who will discuss the significance of the canal to the development of commerce in Northern New York.
“The Champlain Canal is only 60 miles, small in comparison to the larger canals across New York,” said O’Connor. “However, its opening in September 1823 allowed the local economy to grow, as products could be shipped to market in a more economical way, Additionally, it allowed Ticonderoga to create a viable boat-building industry.”
O’Connor, a former history professor, currently serves as Director of Libraries at North Country Community College. The program will be held in the museum’s program room. Reservations may be made by calling the Hancock House at 518-585-7868 or via e-mail to tihistory@bridgepoint1.com.
Photo: The Lake George Landing, a dock on Lake Champlain in Ticonderoga (Ticonderoga Historical Society).
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