The Erie Canal Museum, located in Syracuse, New York, is a historical institution dedicated to the Erie Canal. Founded in 1962, the museum is housed in the Syracuse Weighlock Building, a structure dating back to 1850. This building was used as a weighlock, a large scale used to weigh boats traveling on the Erie Canal to determine their tolls, from 1850 to 1883. Today, the museum not only houses artifacts from the Erie Canal but also showcases the present canal life.
The Erie Canal Museum is not just a repository of historical artifacts from the Erie Canal, but it also provides a glimpse into the present canal life. The museum boasts a collection of over 50,000 items, including costumes, furnishings, tools, canal boat equipment, models, household items, prints, sketches, drawings, paintings, photographs, negatives, rare books, and various manuscript and archival material. These collections offer a comprehensive view of the operation of the Erie Canal, lateral canals, and other man-made waterways.
The Erie Canal Museum hosts a variety of lectures and events throughout the year, providing visitors with a range of educational and entertaining experiences. Highlights include the Annual Gingerbread Gallery held each winter and the ongoing After Hours events that take place on Wednesday nights during the summer. These events offer unique opportunities to learn more about the Erie Canal and its history.
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Erie Boulevard East 318, Syracuse
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Erie Canal Museum has 1 rating.
The Erie Canal Museum in Syracuse offers visitors an informative look into the history and impact of the Erie Canal. Located in the 1850 Weighlock Building, the museum provides a good overview of canal operations and life along the waterway. Exhibits include interactive displays, artifacts, and a full-size replica canal boat that visitors can board. Many reviewers appreciate the museum's educational value, particularly for those interested in local history and engineering. The staff is often noted as friendly and knowledgeable.
While the museum is relatively small, it makes efficient use of its space. Some visitors mention that it can be explored thoroughly in about an hour, which may be seen as a drawback for those expecting a longer experience. The museum's focus on the Erie Canal's history might not appeal to all visitors, especially those less interested in this specific aspect of American history.
The museum offers free admission, which is viewed positively by many visitors. However, some reviewers note that certain areas of the museum could benefit from updates or more interactive elements to engage younger audiences.
Overall, the Erie Canal Museum provides a solid educational experience for those interested in learning about this important piece of New York's and America's transportation history. It's particularly well-suited for history enthusiasts and families looking for an educational outing, though it may not be as engaging for those seeking a more extensive or varied museum experience.
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