Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal Museum October 9, 2020

Located at 817 Conesteo St. Havre de Grace, Maryland is the Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal Museum. The museum is located in the Lock House which was built in 1840 and served as a residence for the lock tender and family and also an office for the toll collector.

The 45 mile canal which ran from Havre de Grace to Wrightsville, Pennsylvania began construction in 1836 and opened for business in 1840. The canal interconnected with nearly 4,000 miles of other canals.

The stated mission of the museum as indicated on their website is:

To showcase the impact of the Susquehanna & Tidewater Canal on the region by expanding and preserving the historic collection. Create a memorable and stimulating experience through oral and visual demonstrations depicting life along our canal during the 19th century.

Touring the house it showed what things may have been like in the period the canal was in operation.

The friendly staff member demonstrated the very interesting working model of the canal lock.

Going outside the remains of the lock seen in the model above can still be seen.

The property is adjacent to the scenic Susquehanna River.

This is a beautiful place to stop. There is a trail through the North Park adjacent to the museum as well though we did not do it. I definitely recommend a visit to this place if you’re in the area. The museum is free but suggest a $3 donation.

You can view my photography (more than just ships!) here and more videos here.