Erie Canal Bicentennial Celebration

The Erie Canal Bicentennial is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate the canal that shaped America’s history. This milestone honors the canal’s transformative influence on New York State and the nation, inviting you to take part in a year filled with unforgettable celebrations, thought-provoking presentations, captivating musical performances, and remarkable journeys.

Since its historic opening in 1825, the canal has stood as an engineering marvel, earning New York the title of the Empire State. It established New York City as the nation’s principal seaport and became a critical “Gateway to the West,” welcoming waves of immigrants and fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation. The canal’s origins trace back to “Clinton’s Ditch,” the ambitious and groundbreaking initial construction that proved the skeptics wrong and paved the way for one of the greatest infrastructure achievements in American history.

Today, the New York State Canal System is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. It offers a unique place to explore, combining recreation with a chance to uncover the rich history and scenic beauty of this iconic waterway. The Erie Canal crossed Cayuga County in an east to west route, passing through the villages of Weedsport, Port Byron, and Montezuma.

To learn more about the celebrations throughout New York State visit the

Tour Cayuga is excited to introduce an incredible poster by David Owen’s Illustration, capturing the Erie Canal as it was two centuries ago! This stunning illustration highlights a canal boat gliding across the Richmond Aqueduct—once the second-largest aqueduct on the canal.

Join us in commemorating 200 years of
history, innovation, and inspiration.

Stop by the NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center in Auburn to pick up a free poster or postcard of this historic scene.