Oneida Feeder Canal

Oneida Feeder Canal. . , The Oneida Feeder Canal was constructed in 1835 to replenish water in the Erie Canal lost in locking boats through the old Oneida Lake Canal between Higginsville and Oneida Lake. The feeder canal was 3 miles long and 12 feet wide, extending from Oneida Creek, near Oneida Castle, to the Erie Canal in Durhamville. It provided convenient access and tremendous shipping potential to the community. , After the old Oneida Lake Canal closed in 1863 the feeder canal was deepened to carry cargo from Durhamville to a dock north of Elm Street. In early winter, freezing temperatures changed the water into a busy skating rink through midtown Oneida. When snow covered the ice, the feeder was used as a road into Durhamville. In the summer months, bathtub races took place during July 4th celebrations and small boats could leisurely float down the feeder. , Homes built on the east side of Main Street has small bridges built to cross over the feeder. The banks of the feeder were graded, and trees were planted to beautify the area. , The feeder also played a key role in providing water for fire emergencies. Newspaper accounts report citizens forming a bucket brigade to put out fires. One was a fire across from the Allen House Hotel. , Over time, the practical and aesthetic advantages of the feeder began to wane. The increased use of railroads made the feeder unnecessary and in 1925 the city began plans to fill it in, using it as a storm water drainage system which was completed in 1936. Remnants of the feeder canal (such as this spot) remain, where you can imagine crossing the access bridges and enjoying the beauty of the time.