The Erie Canal Museum in downtown Syracuse, is the nation's premier maritime museum specializing in Erie Canal history. The museum is housed in the National Register 1850 Syracuse Weighlock Building where canalboats were weighed to assess a toll - the only structure of its kind remaining in America!
Highlights:
Learn how and why the Erie Canal was built, how a weigh station operated, and discover how the Erie Canal affected industrial development, trade, and frontier settlement.
Exhibits:
A treasure of artifacts, maps, and images tell the story of Erie Canal construction and canal life.
Climb aboard the Frank B. Thompson, a full size replica canal boat, stroll the Locktender's Garden, visit the "Penny Postcard Arcade", learn about The Stonecutters, and explore the history of Syracuse and all that makes the Salt City unique. Hands-on Children's Gallery, "book nook," and puppet theater.
New 2005 Exhibition - April 15 through September 16, 2005
Syracuse Architecture: A City Rises from the Banks of the Canal. Discover how the Salt City grew from a country crossroad to a hub of commerce and industry on the banks of the Erie and Oswego Canals. A compelling look at the rich architectural history of the City of Syracuse - testimony to a proud Erie Canal heritage.
Hours:
Open year-round. Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm; Sunday, 10am - 3pm. Monday by appointment for Guided Group Tours.
