Linking the Great Lakes and the interior of America to the Atlantic Ocean, the Erie Canal is considered one of the greatest achievements of our nation. One wonders, however, would the canal have been as magnificent without the Irish? The Erie Canal Museum is honoring the contributions of the Irish in designing, planning, engineering, and funding the Erie Canal.  The exhibition, “The Irish and the Erie Canal” will be on display at the museum until May 28.

In the 19th century, immigration was turning America into a melting pot of cultures. The Potato Famine in Ireland forced immigrants from the Emerald Isle to come to America in hopes of better lives. And, they brought architectural and engineering capabilities to the table that became instrumental in linking the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean via the Erie Canal. Their unique skill sets and hard labor on the Canal helped to transform America into a world economic power. For more information about this exhibition, check out the Erie Canal Museum’s website. The Erie Canal Museum is just steps off the Connective Corridor’s free bus service.