Although fascinating, canal history remains one of the hidden stories of America's past. Yet canals were integral to the country's growth, providing the first long-distance "highways" that penetrated America's interior. Their importance was short-lived but came at a time when the United States was establishing itself as an industrial power. Without canals and their ability to transfer natural resources, manufactured products, and thousands of immigrants seeking a new life, America's transition from a farm-based economy to one based on heavy industry would have been delayed by several decades.
The Shohola Train Wreck, 1864
by NCM Historian Martha Capwell Fox
The anniversary last week of Lincoln’s assassination and funeral brings to mind other impacts of the…
A Glimpse at the Past: Lincoln’s Assassination Through the Diaries of Robert Sayre
Posted April 14, 2021 by Daphne MayerA Glimpse at the Past: Lincoln's Assassination Through the Diaries of Robert Sayre
by NCM Historian Martha Capwell Fox
“Great gloom and…
Mules and Their Drivers along the Delaware & Lehigh Corridor
Posted April 7, 2021 by Daphne MayerMules and Their Drivers along the Delaware & Lehigh Corridor
by NCM Historian, Martha Capwell Fox
April 7 is National Walking Day,…
On April 1, 1921, the "Individual Drinking Cup Company" - which would later be known as Dixie - moved into…
Meet NCM Intern Rachel Moser, Researching 2022 Women’s Labor Exhibit
Posted March 25, 2021 by Daphne MayerWe’re excited to introduce Rachel Moser, currently interning with the National Canal Museum Archives. Rachel is a senior at Moravian College, double-majoring in nursing…
Lucky to Have the Irish
by NCM Historian Martha Capwell Fox
During the 1820s and 30s, when canal-building was booming, it was said…
The Women of the Silk Mills
By NCM Historian Martha Capwell Fox
In celebration of Women's History Month, our history blogs for…
1902 Flood and Blizzard
by NCM Historian Martha Capwell Fox
As we gladly watch the piles of February snow melt away, we…
