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Media Advisory: Village of Waterford and the Canal Corporation to Celebrate 100th Anniversary of the Opening of the Waterford Flight of Locks and the Seasonal Opening of the Canal System
For Immediate Release: 05/14/2015
Friday, May 15
Media are advised to arrive no later than 10:15 a.m.
10:30 a.m. Flotilla
11:00 a.m. Ceremony and Press Conference
Lock E-220
5th Street
Waterford, New York 12188
Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton
State and local officials
On May 15, 1915 the Waterford Flight of Locks opened as part of the New York State Barge Canal. The Flight replaced the 16 original locks that were used to raise the boats from the Hudson River, around the Cohoes Falls, to the level of the Mohawk River. It was an engineering marvel that made the Erie Canal and upstate New York integral to the economic success of the United States.
On Friday, the Waterford Flight celebrates 100 years of service on the Erie Canal. This anniversary coincides with the opening of the 191st consecutive season of navigation on the Canal system. A re-enactment of the grand opening of the Flight and a ceremony at Lock E-2 will commemorate this historic event.
The Erie Canal Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program invites artists to explore the past, present, and future of this iconic waterway through their unique artistic lenses. A partnership between the New York State Canal Corporation and the Erie Canal Museum, the AIR program is a celebration of creativity, history, and stewardship.
The program supports the revitalization of the Erie Canal by blending art with storytelling to illuminate its cultural, environmental, and historical significance. Through exhibitions, events, and public programs, the AIR program brings new perspectives to the Canal's lasting impact on New York State and the nation.
We are thrilled to welcome the 2025 Artists-in-Residence, Kari Varner and Sarah Cameron Sunde, who will begin their year-long exploration of the Erie Canal. Stay tuned for updates on their journey!
Contact
Shane Mahar
shane.mahar@thruway.ny.gov
Office of Media Relations and Communications
(518) 471-5300