Construction
Finally, In 1808 the mayor of New York City, De Witt Clinton planned the construction of the Erie Canal. He and Governor Morris went to Washington to ask for money to help construct the Canal, but they were turned down. Then, Clinton petitioned the New York State legislature so they could finally build the Erie Canal. He had great support. The state of New York paid for the construction, so they started building it on July 4, 1817.
They thought it could cut the cost of shipping by two thirds. It was also believed it would bring more settlers to New York. It cost over 7 million dollars to construct.Some people were very skeptical, though. They called it "Clinton's big ditch". It had its pros and cons, but it was worth the investment in the long run.
They thought it could cut the cost of shipping by two thirds. It was also believed it would bring more settlers to New York. It cost over 7 million dollars to construct.Some people were very skeptical, though. They called it "Clinton's big ditch". It had its pros and cons, but it was worth the investment in the long run.
After the construction
It was so big it contained 18 aqueducts and 83 locks. But between 1836 and 1862, they greatly enlarged the Erie Canal. It was 70 feet wide and 7 feet deep. They decreased the number of locks to 72. But they were not done expanding it. In 1903, they decided they were going to make it even bigger. It was then 12-14 feet deep and 120-200 feet wide and 363 miles long. Then the number of locks was increased by 57.
Today, the Erie Canal isn't used for transporting thing so much. It is largely used by tourists and recreational boats.
Today, the Erie Canal isn't used for transporting thing so much. It is largely used by tourists and recreational boats.