On Saturday September 27, 2025, a full-sized replica of the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief will dock at Corn Hill Landing in Rochester, New York, as part of its Bicentennial Voyage. This event commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal’s opening, a significant milestone in American history. The Bicentennial Voyage is not just a celebration of the past but also an invitation for the community to engage with its rich heritage.
The original Seneca Chief canal boat was the first boat to navigate the completed Erie Canal, carrying Governor DeWitt Clinton from Lake Erie to New York Harbor in 1825. This inaugural voyage marked the canal’s opening and was celebrated with festivities along the route. As it entered the canal in Buffalo, a nearby cannon fired, starting the “grand salute”. It was the first of hundreds of cannons spaced an earshot distance apart along the Erie Canal, which fired in sequence to announce the opening. The sound from the final cannon reached New York City less than two hours later.
In 2020, the Buffalo Maritime Center began a community boatbuilding project that involved over 200 volunteers. The project aimed to preserve traditional boatbuilding skills while fostering a deeper understanding of the Erie Canal’s impact on New York’s history. The replica is constructed using a mix of modern and traditional techniques, ensuring it remains true to its historical roots.
The arrival of the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief in Rochester during ROC the Riverway Weekend is a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to connect with history. While docked, the canal boat will serve as a floating museum, featuring recreated cabins and historical artifacts that bring the canal’s history to life. Residents of Rochester can join in on family-friendly activities that celebrate the canal’s history and its impact on local communities.
Photos of the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief are courtesy of the Buffalo Maritime Center
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