Two hundred years ago, the Ohio Legislature passed “An Act to provide for the Internal Improvement of the State of Ohio by Navigable Canals.” The state’s Canal Commission was authorized to construct waterways that would link the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River. These waterways would directly impact Ohio’s economic growth, immigration and urbanization.

By 1832, over three hundred miles of canals crisscrossed the state, carrying agricultural products and raw materials to distant markets while manufactured goods streamed by canal boat into local towns and villages. Travelers moved around the Ohio inexpensively and quickly, and water-powered mills and factories sprang up along the locks and reservoirs built by local laborers.

Join us in commemorating the Bicentennial of the Ohio's Canal System

We aim to increase the understanding and appreciation of the historical impact Ohio canals had on regional and national growth and their role today in fostering healthier and more prosperous communities.

Speaker—Sam Ashworth

Verity Lodge, Miami University Middletown, 4200 N. University Blvd, Middletown, OH

May 6, 2025

Begins at 6 p.m.

Hear longtime Trustee of the Middletown Historical Society Board present "Middletown and the Miami & Erie Canal".

Ohio-Erie Canal Bicentennial Celebration

Canal Market District, 36 E Canal St, Newark, OH

June 28, 2025

Begins at 10 a.m.

Join us as we commemorate the Bicentennial of the Ohio & Erie Canal, a waterway that shaped our history, fueled industry and connected communities. Step back in time with historical reenactments, canal boat models, guest speakers and stories from the canal era.

Bicentennial Celebration of the Miami & Erie Canal 

Corner of Yankee Road and Verity Parkway, Middletown, OH

July 21, 2025

Begins at 11 a.m.

Join us for a special event featuring reenactors, a brass band, special guests, military units and proclamations.