Random Fact – Erie Canal
Anyone familiar with “Clinton’s Ditch?” In 1825, the Erie Canal – nicknamed for its creator, Governor DeWitt Clinton of New York – provided a vital connection from the Hudson River across New York state to Lake Erie. At first, most people thought the idea was absurd and potentially disastrous. But on this day, the first vessel to traverse the Erie Canal – the Seneca Chief – arrived in New York City. The trip from Buffalo took nine days, a vast improvement over the weeks of grueling overland travel it took before “Clinton’s Ditch” was built.