The Erie Canal
The Canal That Changed America
The Erie Canal was the first major commercially successful connection between the East Coast and the Western Frontier. Known as the "Gateway to the West,” the canal helped fan the flames of the Industrial Revolution.
Right Inset:
A Wartime Ally
The canal provided a critical supply line that helped the North win Civil War. In addition, northern states had grown more prosperous thanks to the canal, leading to better funding and supplies for the Union Army.
Left Inset: The First Information Superhighway.
The Erie Canal soon became an "information superhighway," spreading ideas like today's Internet. Social reforms such as the abolition of slavery and women's rights movement, sproute d up in communities along the canal's route. The canal towpath even served as one of the routes of the Underground Railroad.
Nearby Attractions:
Gerrit Smith Estate-Peterboro
Matilda JoslynGage House- Fayetteville
National Abolition Hall of Fame- Peterboro
Women’s Right National Historic Park - Seneca Falls
Erected by Paths Through History/I Love NY.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Waterways & Vessels. In addition, it is included in the Erie Canal series list.
Location.
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Dam. That's Not a Bridge? (a few steps from this marker); The Mohawk Valley (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named The Erie Canal (within shouting distance of this marker); Transportation is King / Modernization (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named The Mohawk Valley (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named The Erie Canal (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named The Erie Canal (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named The Mohawk Valley (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Fonda.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 12, 2019. It was originally submitted on February 10, 2019, by Steve Stoessel of Niskayuna, New York. This page has been viewed 184 times since then and 20 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on February 10, 2019, by Steve Stoessel of Niskayuna, New York. 2, 3, 4. submitted on February 11, 2019, by Steve Stoessel of Niskayuna, New York. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.
