Scene on the Erie Canal, 1842; wash drawing.

The canal was a major achievement that improved the nation’s transportation infrastructure and provided great economic
benefit for much of the country.

The Erie Canal opened, connecting the Great Lakes with the
Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River. Governor DeWitt Clinton
of New York, the driving force behind the project, led the
opening ceremonies and rode the canal boat Seneca Chief
from Buffalo to New York City.

Work began on the waterway in 1817. Teams of oxen plowed
the ground, but for the most part the work was done by
immigrants, among them Irish diggers who had to rely on
primitive tools. They were paid $10 a month, and barrels of
whisky were placed along the canal route as encouragement.

Erie Canal Opening with Governor Clinton (1769-1828).