Clinton's big ditch in new York

Erie Canal Overview

• Initiated during a canal-cutting craze alongside turnpike and steamboat developments.

• New Yorkers built the Erie Canal due to lack of federal aid.

Key Figures

• Governor DeWitt Clinton: Driving force behind the canal, faced ridicule ("Clinton's Big Ditch").

Canal Specifications

• Construction began: 1817

• Length: 363 miles

• Completed: 1825

• Symbolic ceremony: Governor Clinton poured lake water into Hudson River, representing the union of waters.

Economic Impact

• Improved transportation: Shipments from Buffalo to NYC reduced from $100 to $5 per ton.

• Transit time reduced from 20 days to 6 days.

• Land values along the canal significantly increased.

• Growth of cities like Rochester and Syracuse.

• Industry and farming profitability surged in New York state.