Books on the D&H Canal

Hidden in the Woods

One of the interesting things about American history, especially topographical American history and American transportation history, is that many of the remnants of these histories are buried in unseen places, by roadsides, under brush, in the woods. The D&H canal, originally designed and built to transport new types of coal from the hinterlands of 19th century Pennsylvania to New York City, via the Hudson River, was a vital link between various worlds of the young United States. From 1828-1898 the 108-miles of waterway operated and served a large and growing population. Once it closed, the canal fell into disrepair, and was forgotten by many. It was 68-years later that the D&H Canal Historical Society was formed and steps were taken to help preserve and bring the canal back to life (to some extent).

There is a fine museum that now accompanies the canal, in High Falls, NY. It is a wonderful little museum, which I encourage all to visit and support. In it there are various maps, artifacts related to the canal, photographs, and tools, among other objects and items. There are also several books and even a book shop.

The last two photos below are part of the canal itself: a stone "post" where ropes ran along, the barge itself being pulled by donkeys or other means. The final photo is a remaining portion of the canal, which now terminates in the center of High Falls itself.