July 4, 1825 saw a momentous project begin for Ohio in Newark, Ohio, and on July 21 the project continued in Middletown, Ohio. These events in Newark and Middletown were the start of a twenty-year era of canal building. By 1845 there had been nearly one thousand miles of canal and a vast number of locks, aqueducts, reservoirs, and culverts built to bring the world to Ohio. 2025 will mark the Two Hundredth Anniversary of the start of Ohio’s canal era.

     On Saturday, April 26, 2025 at the Piqua, Ohio Public Library, the celebration will begin! Four programs will be presented that help set the stage for events held across Ohio, marking many of the highlights of the canals as they made their way across our state. The Canal Society of Ohio and the Piqua Public Library are joining forces to start the commemoration activities. 

     Canal Society members Kevin Coleman from Chillicothe, Ohio, Steve Dorsten from Celina, Ohio, Andy Hite from Piqua, Ohio, and Dave Neuhardt from Yellow Springs, Ohio, will come together to share the impact that the canals had on Ohio’s first Capitol, Chillicothe. Also how small-town Delphos welcomed the canal, and the impact that the Miami and Erie Canal had on western Ohio. An overview will be presented of what the entire canal system meant for the growth of the Buckeye State! 

     The day will begin at 10:00 AM and conclude by 3:30 PM. A complete schedule of the day will be available as the event gets closer. Watch The Canal Society of Ohio’s webpage for more details. And as always – Headway to all Gongoozlers!

​The Canal Society of Ohio, Inc.

​Ohio's Canals Bicentennial Kick-Off Presentation

OHIO Canals Bicentennial

Meetings are under way regarding plans for Ohio Canals Bicentennial Celebrations for 2025. It is led by the Ohio History Connection with participation of the Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources and all canal associated Societies and park locations. Check here for further information as we receive it.