(^172) Newark – De Witte - 105 km
The canal had a fascinating history. Throughout the 18th and 19th
centuries, the lack of an efficient and safe transportation network
kept the population (and trade) primarily confined to coastal areas.
For many years, explorers searched for a waterway to the west.
Then, in 1807, Jesse Hawley, a prisoner in the Canandaigua Jail,
wrote a series of essays proposing a waterway from Lake Erie to the
Atlantic Ocean. He described the route, costs, and benefits of what
would become the Erie Canal in great detail.
Today, a pleasant road runs along the canal. Squirrels darted across
the path, and grey herons waded in the shallows, all while passing
numerous old locks. I couldn’t help but wonder if Jessy Hawley was
ever financially compensated for his efforts.
leana
(Leana)
#1