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.
When the River Rushed In: The Knox Mine Disaster, 22 January, 1959
By Martha Capwell-Fox
At 11:40 AM on January 22, 1959,…
The Coldest Crop
Written By: Wendi Blewett
When you think of crops, you probably think of corn, wheat, pumpkins, apples, or any…
A Year in Review: National Canal Museum Highlights
Posted December 29, 2021 by Emily Rose ClaytonA Year in Review: National Canal Museum Highlights
by Digital Engagement Specialist, Emily Rose Clayton
With the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic…
Farewell to the Glendon Hotel
The Glendon Hotel, reputed to be one of the oldest buildings still standing in Northampton County, will soon stand no…
Early EZ-Pass: When People Paid to Cross the Lehigh River
Posted December 8, 2021 by Emily Rose ClaytonEarly EZ-Pass: When People Paid to Cross the Lehigh River
by NCM Historian, Martha Capwell Fox
Especially at this time of year,…
“A Kiss From France” – a Message From a WWI Soldier
Posted November 10, 2021 by Emily Rose Clayton"A Kiss From France" - a Message From a WWI Soldier
by NCM Historian Martha Capwell Fox
In 1954, President Dwight D.…
A Tale of Two Octobers: Disaster at the Lehigh Valley Railroad
Posted November 3, 2021 by Emily Rose ClaytonA Tale of Two Octobers: Disaster at the Lehigh Valley Railroad
By NCM Historian, Martha Capwell Fox
October was not a good…
Help the NCM Solve a Mystery!
Our archives intern, Savannah, found this amazing photograph while sorting pictures for our ongoing cataloging…
