Swallows followed us, swooping and diving around the boat at a discreet distance. Geese flew overhead in formation, urging us on with their primeval honking cries. Far off we saw eagles and buzzards gliding on air currents, cormorants skimming low over the water and everywhere the blue heron.

The auspicious consummation of the canals naturally called forth universal expressions of joy

Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.

This is a place where you can really go and touch history.

So often this country doesn’t preserve its history. This was my opportunity to salvage the past for the future.

It is an incredible experience to 'paddle back into the past'. As you glide down the waterway so important to the growth of this country, it is impossible not to feel the spirit and strength of those who traveled so early in our nation’s history also by their own power.

Revitalization of the shipyard has been identified as a priority for many years and put forth in several regional plans that provide a solid foundation of ideas to build upon.

Well may New York rejoice in an achievement that would add glory to the most powerful nation on earth.

We are digging the Ditch through the mire; Through the mud and the slime and the mire, by heck! And the mud is our principal hire; Up our pants, in our shirts, down our neck, by heck! We are digging the Ditch through the gravel, So the people and freight can travel.

The work is finished. Our brightest, highest hopes are consummated.

New York has made the longest canal -- in the least time – with the least experience – for the least money – and of the greatest public utility of any other in the world.

Doing the challenge pushed me to get out on the Canal and enjoy all that spring has to offer.

My first ride in 2019 wasn't until March 20, and parts of the trail were still covered in snow and ice. I particularly enjoy seeing turtles, waterfowl, muskrats and have even seen an otter and a mink in the old ponds in the Rotterdam Junction sections.

The Erie Canal fundamentally shaped Tonawanda and North Tonawanda’s communities and now it is shaping their future.

Erie Canal Heritage Park is a monument to what can be achieved when the volunteer sector and government work together for common good.

The Erie Canal is the heart of our community.