Locktender’s House – Friends of the Delaware Canal

Full Moon Towpath Trek, in New Hope, PA

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS WALK.

If you would like to be added to our waitlist, please email the us at friends@fodc.org.

Thank You.

Venture along the towpath at twilight to see the full moon rise above the Delaware River.

Full beaver moon

We will meet in the rear parking area adjacent to the Canal at the Canal Path Park located at 2520 River Rd, New Hope, PA 18938.

State Park Educator Katie Martens and FODC Executive Director, Michael Ginder will lead a moderately-paced (the colder it is, the faster we go), 3.5-mile round-trip walk through the historic village of New Hope with a stop at the Locktender’s House.

On the way south from Canal Park to Lock 11 in New Hope, we’ll listen for owls and keep our eyes open for other nocturnal critters. At the Locktender’s House we will stop and warm up with a hot beverage and cookies.

The walk will be held weather permitting. It will be canceled in the event of rain, total cloud cover, or hazardous conditions. Check for a Go/No Go message that will be emailed and posted on our website by noon on December 3rd.

A $10 contribution is requested for the “Full Moon” Towpath Trek, which may be paid on the day of the event.

Simply fill out our form to reserve your spot. Attendance is limited to 25 people.

Canal News – Fall 2023

A Locktender’s Life

When you work in a Locktender’s House, you are constantly reminded of the people who once lived here and worked the lock so many years ago. We know from first-person accounts that lock tending was a demanding, low-wage job. One main benefit was free housing. And back in the day, “free” didn’t get you much.

There were 23 locks along the Delaware Canal, and 17 Locktenders were initially employed to ensure the canal boats could travel through the locks as efficiently as possible. Several sections of the Canal required adjacent locks to accommodate the drop in elevation. In those instances, a Locktender was responsible for two closely situated locks.

An example of this could be found in New Hope, where Locks 8 & 9, along with a guard lock were the responsibility of one Locktender. The same was true of Locks 10 and 11. In New Hope, you will find three Locktenders’ houses within less than ½ mile.

The original list of Locktenders included*:

John Hibbs – Lock 1 and the Tide Lock
Elias Gilkyson – Locks 2 and 3
Samuel Daniels – Locks 8, 9, and Guard Lock in New Hope
Samuel Stockdan – Locks 10 and 11
George Solliday – Locks 13 and 14
Mahlon Smith – Locks 15 and 16
Joseph Shepard – Locks 22 and 23

Lock 11 and the adjacent house serve as the headquarters of the Friends of the Delaware Canal. This house is still a mystery. Research indicates that the building pre-dates the construction of the Canal and was likely built by Lewis Coryell, who owned the land and worked as the engineer on this section of the Canal. The original first floor of the structure is now underground. The street elevation was raised at some point, and the first floor was filled in.

Dawn to Dusk

The workday of the boatmen and Locktenders began before dawn, and it lasted well into the night. During the height of canal activity, Locktenders became very efficient at locking boats through. And with the help of a willing boat crew, the task could take three to four minutes.

As the canal boat captain signaled their approach, the Locktender would be ready to guide them through. The captain would throw a line with a loop at the end, which the Locktender would attach to a cleat on the lock. The captain would then “snub” or tether the boat before hitting the lower gate.

As the boat sank, the captain would release the line. The boat would sink to level and continue the journey.

Heavy traffic was managed by locking distance markers which were guideposts placed a hundred plus yards away from the lock in either direction. The rule is that you could proceed if you were in the locking distance before another boat.

However, the Locktender had discretion here. If the lock were ready for a boat coming north, the boats traveling in the opposite direction would need to wait. The widening of the locks helped ease the captains’ tension, who were eager to get on their way. These locks allowed two boats to lock in simultaneously and improved overall traffic flow in the busiest sections of the Canal.

At night, the Locktender would signal that the gate was open by waving a lantern. If the lock was closed, a ruby-colored lamp would be placed in the window of the wicket shanty. When the Canal opened, the boats traveled day and night, leaving no rest for the Locktender. By the mid-1850s, however, this changed, and Locktenders worked from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. every day except Sunday.

Since the Locktenders were responsible for keeping the traffic moving, they became very

adept at anticipating oncoming traffic. Once they heard the sound of the approaching boat, which could be a bugle or a conch shell, they would reply with their own response to indicate whether the lock was open or closed. Boat captains were always in a hurry. The more trips they made, the more money they made, so in general, they were an impatient crowd. Fights over who could lock in first were a daily occurrence in the early years. And stories tell us that Locktenders were sometimes forced to throw the brawling parties into the Canal to cool off tempers.

A Family Affair

A Locktender wasn’t paid much, so they often had to supplement their income by taking other jobs during the day. This meant the whole family was put into service, locking in the boats as needed. One source said that as soon as a child was strong enough to work the wickets, they were “hired” for the job.

Many Locktenders and their wives also earned extra money, supplying boatmen with provisions. Often, these industrious families would grow vegetables and some livestock, if they had the room, and would sell or barter with the boat captains. Some wives would sell baked goods and launder clothes. Still others would provide stable space for mules to rest in the evening. Boatmen gave these houses names such as the laundry lock or the mule barn lock.

Locktender Houses

According to research from the Heritage Conservancy, 16 Locktender’s houses were built along the Delaware Canal for $9,200.46. These houses were small but well-built. Most were constructed with stone. However, storms and floods led to the rebuilding of many original structures along the Canal. All but one house was built before electricity became available.

Most houses were two stories with two rooms downstairs and a kitchen. Upstairs there would be two or three bedrooms. The bathroom was usually an outhouse. And not surprisingly, they were heated with coal, which was often traded or purchased from canal boat captains. Any land adjacent to the house was put to good use. Gardens, chickens, and even some larger livestock helped feed the family and the passing boatmen. Without this supplemental income, most families could not survive.

A Living Legacy

Like many historic sites, several Lockhouses have been lost to time. However, some still remain. Several are used by the park service, including our headquarters, yet others are now private residences.

When it became clear the Canal would be sold to the State of Pennsylvania, the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company offered to sell the Lockhouses to company employees. One account was discovered and shared by a FODC member who is fortunate to live in a Locktender’s house today.

As you can tell from the following letter, these Lockhouses were prized for their location and historical connection. Today, the current owners lovingly maintain the character and charm

Excerpts from a letter to the homeowners (dated 8/5/1978).

“It may be of some interest to you to know some of the history (albeit recent) of the Lockhouse. My father was an official of the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company, the builders and operators of the Canal, and at the time of the transfer of the Canal (late 1920’s) to the Commonwealth, he was able to purchase one of the lockhouses. The one chosen was to be a weekend retreat as well as a vacation site, and it seemed that (this one) was the best of the lot as well as the most scenic.

When we took it over it was, to put it mildly, a pigsty. The house itself was filthy and the entire property looked as though it had not been cleaned since the Canal was originally built. The small building in the back, toward the River Road, was located on the cement pad next to your house and we had it moved to its present location and installed some sanitary facilities, inasmuch as the purchase price included a half-moon backhouse, which did not appeal to us.

Needless to say, for quite a few years, our weekends and

vacations were spent in trying to humanize the house and grounds. However, there was compensation: Quite a few parties were held which the family and friends enjoyed. I remember having my high school pals, as well as gals, for weekend shindigs. (In the 30’s, believe me, they were properly chaperoned.)

In the northeast corner above the lock, we had installed a dock at which we kept two canoes and a rowboat because at the time the aqueduct over the Tohickon had not been demolished and we were able to canal for miles north on the Canal.

The original cost to my father for the property, as I remember, was $500.00. Due to World War II, the gasoline shortages, and the fact that sons were called into the service, as well as the death of my father in 1937, the property was sold in 1943.”

*Source: A complete list of the original tenders can be found in the Delaware Canal

Journal by C.P. Yoder.

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Canal Tender Spotlight

Our volunteers, many of whom are members, are the backbone of our organization. Without them, the Delaware Canal State Park would be a very different place.

Our Canal Tenders act as the eyes and ears of the towpath, all 58.9 miles. They provide valuable input on the conditions along the canal while picking up litter along the way.

To recognize the dedication of these volunteers, we will spotlight a few throughout the coming year.

Mark Greaney

Mark has been a Canal Tender since 2018 and is responsible for the section of the Canal towpath between the Narrow’s Restaurant and Mueller’s Store, approximately a five-mile stretch. Lately, his reports have been very encouraging. Little trash, small debris. All good news. Mark is a runner who can cover this distance pretty quickly. He sends regular updates on the condition of the towpath and the surrounding area.

As an employee of ExxonMobil, Mark has enrolled the Friends in the ExxonMobil Foundation’s Volunteer Involvement Grant program. His dedication pays off. Mark
forwards his canal tender hours to the program, and we receive a donation based on his hours of volunteer service.

Jane Richter
We are lucky to have many committed Canal Tenders who send photos and often take matters into their own hands. In the southern section of the Canal, one of these
dedicated volunteers is Jane Richter.

Jane tends the area between Bridge Street to E. Maple Avenue in Morrisville. She provides useful information on the condition of the Canal and towpath, which we share with the Park Staff.

Recently, Jane spotted some new graffiti on a bench and fencing along the Canal. She picked up some paint from a member of our CAT team in the area and resolved the issue quickly. The paint was a perfect match, and once Jane painted over the graffiti, the bench and fence looked as good as new. This attention to detail helps keep the park looking its best for residents and visitors alike.

Want to be a Canal Tender?

If you are interested in joining this special group of dedicated volunteers, we do have a few openings available in the southern section of the Canal. Specifically, these areas in Bristol are still in need of a watchful eye.
• Beaver Street to Bristol Lagoon
• Bristol Lagoon to Green Lane
• Green Lane to Edgely Avenue

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WHAT’S IT WORTH?

The Delaware Canal State Park isn’t just another pretty place; it has economic value.

This year, on July 4th weekend, several favorite spots along the canal exceeded capacity. The gates at the Virginia Forrest Recreation Area had to be closed due to overcrowding. Since the pandemic, the number of visitors has continued to grow along with their impact on the local economy.
Here are some enlightening statistics
• Pennsylvania is one of the top states for spending on outdoor recreation, generating over $29 billion annually.
• This industry supports over 250,000 jobs, equating to $8.6 billion in wages and salaries.
• And the industry generates nearly $2 billion in tax revenue.
• The combined acreage of Pennsylvania parks and forests is twice the size of the State of Delaware.
• The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) manages 5,000 buildings, 141 dams, and 171 water treatment facilities.
• An extensive and aging infrastructure will require additional investment.

The current administration is aware of the economic impact of our parks. “The 2023- 24 bipartisan budget invests $112 million to improve state parks and forests and spur economic growth in the outdoor recreation industry.”

Investing in the industries that provide the best return on our tax dollars makes economic sense, and our park system fits the bill. The outdoor diversity available in our state parks makes Pennsylvania unique. It is a valuable resource and one worth the investment.

We can all do our part to protect and promote our park system by supporting legislation and funding that maintain this regional and national treasure.

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WHERE’S THE WATER?

You may have noticed that many places along the canal that usually have flowing water are lower than before. This condition will persist for several months in some areas and longer in others.
A series of storms over the past three years has caused infrastructure failures along the 58.9-mile length of the canal. Some fixes are more complicated than others. Some will be resolved before the spring. However, the impact on water levels in the canal is the same. When construction is underway on the canal, the water level must be drawn down.

That’s the bad news: a dry canal and many trail closures.

Now for the good news. The state has appropriated and approved funding of over $104 million for park infrastructure improvements, including much-needed repairs in the Delaware Canal.
Approximately 40 + projects in the pipeline will restore and improve the canal for years to come.
A case in point is the High Falls Creek culvert. This culvert has been replaced several times. The size of the pipe could not adequately handle the volume of water that occurs in major storms.
The long-term fix will be a new, improved design in keeping with the historic nature of the original structure. This larger culvert will handle a significant surge in the volume of water.

Approximately 80 bridges span the canal. Many need repair. A comprehensive project called the “12 Bridge Project” will address this issue in the coming year. You will see more towpath closures
as the construction teams begin to take core samples and ready the sites for repair. Other infrastructure improvements that are in some stage of design work or are out to bid include Rodge’s Run Sub-canal Culvert in Riegelsville, Spahr’s Bridge in Upper Black Eddy, Lumbervillle Aqueduct, Bowman’s Hill Waste Gate in Washington Crossing and the Yardley Aqueduct. In addition, towpath
resurfacing is taking place in Easton as Penn-Dot completes wall repairs further south.

So, DCNR has a busy few years ahead on the canal. The park is trying to schedule the work as best it can to avoid extended towpath closures. All agree that no one wants to see the process of watering and de-watering. The plan is to coordinate projects to minimize the impact on wildlife and the environment. While this work is underway, we will post any closures or alerts on our Facebook page and website. And we will provide as much insight as possible into the timing and completion of these projects.

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HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS

The holiday season is right around the corner and we wanted to help make your gift giving pain free. So, why not shop our line of exclusive merchandise. Throw in a membership, and we will pack it all up and send a personalized holiday card with a message of your choice.

Our carefully curated selection of tastefully branded items is ready-to-order and we have gifts to fit every budget.
Simply give us a call to place your order or stop by our Pop-Up Holiday Store in New Hope to find the perfect gift. Prices range from $5.00 to $25.00.
• Car Magnets: $5.00
• FODC 40th Anniversary Pins: $5.00
• Large Tote Bags: $10.
• Dennis Gerhart Illustrated Notecards (Six different designs): $15.00
• Baseball Hat (Embroidered): $25.00
• Gray T-Shirt imprinted on front and back (specify size Adult XL, L, M, and S): $25.00
• FODC Gift Membership—A great gift you can order online!: $50.00–$500.00

NEW THIS YEAR – Minnie Mule The cutest, most adorable plush mule sporting FODC Bandana: $15.00

Give us a call at 215-862-2021 or email us at friends@fodc.org and get your holiday shopping done today!

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CATTAILS ARE NO MATCH FOR OUR CAT TEAM MEMBERS

Volunteers of the Friends fill various roles. Many of our members and volunteers sign up yearly for the Annual Canal Clean-up in April. Still others are regulars. They are Canal
Tenders who “adopt” a section of the towpath and keep an eye on conditions, picking up any debris or trash along the way.

Still others join our CAT Team. CAT stands for Canal Action Team. These heavy-hitting men and women take on some larger projects, like bridge painting, 9/11 memorial bench repair and
replacement, and sign installation.

This year, our CAT Team members have taken on the task of removing cattails from the prism of the canal. While cattails are native plants, they can be very aggressive, choking out other
plant life while soaking up water. Removing vegetation from the canal is a water sport. Our CAT members wade into the canal and pull out the cattails, roots and all. Once the first clump is removed, they become easier to conquer. Getting muddy is inevitable, and sore muscles are sure to follow.

Recently, the team tackled two outcroppings: one near the Locktender’s House at Lock 11 (below right). and another near the Malcolm Crooks Bridge in Solebury (bottom). Once the “waders”
conquered a clump of cattails, they handed the plants to other land-based volunteers who stacked the debris for removal by the park staff.

It is honest work that pays nothing, yet this arduous task rewards volunteers with the knowledge that their efforts have improved the canal.

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ANNUAL YEAR-END APPEAL

In the next few weeks you will receive our annual fundraising appeal. While we have accomplished much this year, we still have more work to do. If you can, please consider a donation to help us continue our efforts to preserve, restore and protect the Delaware Canal.

Thank you!

Canal News – Summer 2020

Another Camelback Bridge Project Crossed Off the To-Do List

Work in progress at the Thompson-Neely Camelback Bridge

Extensive repair work on the historic camelback bridge that crosses the Delaware Canal in the northern section of Washington Crossing Historic Park has been completed. To preserve one the canal’s most iconic and well-used structures, the Friends raised $78,000 in private contributions to fund the project. Thank you!

The work was completed by camelback bridge restoration expert Randall Myer of R-Shell Exteriors, Lancaster, PA. Myer and his assistant Jane Martin arrived on site in late January. The weather was cooperative, but the pandemic wasn’t. They were drawn off the job by the COVID-19 restrictions, and then returned to the project in May when construction activities were allowed.

After elevating, then stabilizing the bridge on cribbing, the main floor beams, posts, cross bracing, X braces, roof boards, and many deck boards were replaced with appropriate timber. The bridge then received its coatings of signature barn red stain. The final inspection by representatives from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Friends took place on June 3.

The Thompson-Neely Camelback Bridge is one of only six along the 58.9-mile-long canal that still retains its authentic structure. The camelback design was used on the Delaware Canal because it has a slight hump in the middle allowing clear passage of canal boats underneath. Today they are picturesque and useful reminders of the canal’s colorful past.

At the final inspection of the Thompson-Neely Camelback Bridge (from left) – Jane Martin and Randall Myer from R-Shell Exteriors, Bethany Hare, Delaware Canal State Park Assistant Manager; Eugene Gelfand, consulting engineer to DCNR; and Susan Taylor, Friends of the Delaware Canal.

The Friends of the Delaware Canal’s quest to restore and preserve the six remaining camelbacks began in 2002. Since then, five of the six have been restored. Their quest continues.

Friends’ volunteers undertake maintenance projects each year to keep the already restored bridges in good condition. The Upper Black Eddy Ready Response Team (UBERRT) will be restaining Hazzard’s Camelback Bridge this summer, and the Canal Action Team (CAT) will be applying their stain brushes to the Goat Farm Camelback Bridge, as well as cutting back vegetation that tries its best to engulf the bridge approaches.

The sixth bridge, Spahr’s Camelback Bridge in Upper Black Eddy, is a victim of earthquake damage and extensive deterioration. Its restoration is a major undertaking and remains a goal.

We are very grateful to the many generous contributors to this project, who love the camelback bridges and ensure their preservation. With special thanks to the Goodfellow Fund, Judy and Joe Franlin, Barbara and Peter Sperry, and Susan Taylor.

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Park Manager’s Report

by Devin Buzard

As you may have already gleaned from other articles in this issue of Canal News, we are nearing a predictable end to several large-scale construction projects along the northern end of the Canal.

These much needed replacements and repairs necessitated the dewatering of the Canal. The bypass gate that feeds Lehigh River water into the Canal was closed last fall. The waterway is essentially without water, but when it can be found in sporadic stretches, its source is stormwater runoff or local streams that flow directly into the Canal.

While there have been setbacks with recent events and the temporary cessation of some work, I am still optimistic that we will be able to introduce water once again as early as August.

As spring transitions into summer, I am finding it is difficult to predict what the next few months will bring. You will see an increase in boom mowing (long reach) along the banks as summer continues. We recently replaced this critical piece of machinery that was lost to a roll-over accident last year.

And, despite being faced with so much recent uncertainty, I have been inspired to see that the good work of the Friends has not faltered over the past few months. Most notably, I witnessed the fulfillment of a primary mission of the Friends – the restoration of an authentic camelback bridge in the skilled hands of an expert craftsman.

While there could be no large ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Thompson-Neely Camelback Bridge when the project was completed, I know that one would have been well-attended. A repair of this scale only exists with many supporters. I appreciate the Friend’s commitment to preserving our historic structures and proud to know that this bridge will go on to bear the footsteps of future generations.

Out on the towpath, I am sure you have noticed the increase in visitation and may have even personally witnessed a new user, who is still unfamiliar with trail etiquette. While the increase in traffic may at times be frustrating, it is important to remember that this influx of recreational users truly indicates the importance of our public lands that you, as Friends of the Delaware Canal, already know and support. While this trend in visitation may not last forever, it is my hope that the appreciation for places like the Delaware Canal will not fade.

The Friends heartily thank all the Delaware Canal State Park staff for keeping the towpath and waterway open during these extremely challenging times!

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Calendar of Events

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Person walking on the canal path — Always open.

COVID-19 has sucked the certainty out of the Friends’ plans for 2020. You already know more than you’d like about the hazards of gathering in groups and being in enclosed spaces,
so we won’t belabor the reasons why our organization has decided to cancel some of our traditional events and reconfigure others.

The Friends of the Delaware Canal is a Pennsylvania State Parks friends organization. As such, we must and want to comply with the directives
that are issued by the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Those directives are based on the Center for Disease Control and Department of Health guidelines.

When you receive this newsletter, the Counties of Bucks and Northampton may be in the Green Phase, “the new normal.” At this point, the Friends’ “new normal” means that we will plan on having walks, but the number of participants will be limited to 20 people, who will social distance and wear masks. Reservations will be required. And, yes, we will have a sound amplification system, so there won’t be the need to huddle together to hear.

Canal Action Team (CAT) projects, such as bridge painting and vegetation removal, will go forward with precautions in place. The number of volunteers on each project will be limited to five, the work will take place outdoors, and no contact with the general public made. We would dearly love to take on some small group clean-up activities to make up for missing the Friends’ annual Canal Clean-Up Day, but there is just too much poison ivy growing on the banks to risk it. (And now you know why our annual cleanup is scheduled in very early April.)

Later this year, it may be possible to have some programs, such as photo shows or presentations by speakers, but it will depend upon how well COVID-19 is tamed. Plans are being made for virtual alternates, if need be. We will not be having our Paddle the Canal events in partnership with the State Park Educators this summer and fall. The need to sanitize the kayaks, paddles, and PFDs and be in close proximity during instruction and launching has ruled paddling out.

Our practice of carpooling people from the starting and finishing points of the Friends’ annual 58.9-mile long Canal Walk has complicated the decision about whether or not the Walk will be held this year.

Unfortunately, Faces and Places–A Celebration of the Arts and History Along the Delaware Canal has been canceled. Nearly all of the event arrangements for the Friends’ major fundraiser must be made well in advance, so the cancellation became inevitable. Plans are already underway for Faces and Places 2021.

Meanwhile, as the way forward becomes clear, we will let you know the what, where, and whens about upcoming activities. If you’ve provided your e-mail address, you will receive announcements via Constant Contact. The events will be posted on the www.fodc.org and listed on the Friends’ Facebook page.

It’s been very strange to be without events and activities since early March. We very much miss seeing you, and hope to be able to change that, at least somewhat, soon.

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BUTTON, BUTTON

THE FRIENDS HAVE A BUTTON

You can get yours absolutely free at the Locktender’s House in New Hope or at a Friends’ event.
Many thanks to Board member Jeff Connell for being our button benefactor!

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SMILING AT THE LOCKTENDER’S HOUSE

Even though the interior of the little museum at Locktender’s House at Lock 11 in New Hope is currently closed to visitors because of the COVID-19 restrictions, the Friends are still
sharing the Canal’s stories.

On weekends, Susan Schneider, our Locktender’s House guide, sits on the front porch. Decked out in her long skirt, homespun blouse, and mask, she has been greeting visitors and providing
them with information about the many aspects of the towpath and waterway.

Susan Schneider’s expression can’t be seen behind
her mask, but a painted stone, hid by a kind
someone nearby, makes it clear that there’s a smile
under there.

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Hand painted rock reminding people to wear masks

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The Construction Countdown
3 – 2 – 1 – Done

Completion is in sight for three major Canal construction projects. (Please knock on wood. This is no time to jinx anything.)

The northern end of the Canal from Easton to New Hope has been essentially dewatered since last fall. The bypass gate that supplies water from the Lehigh River was closed to allow work to begin on three projects during the winter/early spring. The timing of the dewatering was dictated by the restrictions concerning the habitat of the red belly turtle, a PA threatened species.

The three projects are:

• The replacement of the northern drop gate on Groundhog Lock aka Locks 22/23 in Raubsville
• The replacement of the Fry’s Run aka Kleinhans Aqueduct in Williams Township
• The repair of the berm bank blowout and structural damage at the Tinicum Aqueduct (The steel trough that conveys water over Tinicum Creek is not being replaced as part of this project.)

The first estimate for the completion of the three projects was May 2020, but then came the obstacles. Access agreement issues, problems with bids, a tree falling on a big piece of equipment, and, of course, COVID-19 shutdowns.

Now, in June, it almost seems miraculous to be able to report that all three projects are expected to be completed by early fall, at the latest, thanks to the diligence of DCNR and the contractors. We hope that there are no additional delays to be encountered due to material availability or personnel shortages due to COVID-19.

From North to South:

The massive timber drop gate for Groundhog Lock is being built in the shop of Methods and Materials Building Company of Gilbertsville, PA. (This is the same company that constructed the drop gate and miter gates for the Lock 11 rehabilitation.) The Delaware Canal State Park maintenance staff has cleaned out the gate chamber and is in the process of replacing the timbers on which the gate will rest. When the new gate arrives, the Park staff will install it. The project is anticipated to be finished in August at a cost of $44,000.

On August 11, 2018, three inches of rain fell in less than an hour turning Fry’s Run in Williams Township into a torrent heading to the Delaware River. The Fry’s Run aka Kleinhans Aqueduct stood in its way and lost the fight. Parts of the aqueduct and its supporting structure were torn away. As an interim measure to maintain water f low in the Canal, DCNR installed two pipes where the aqueduct had been. Last winter, Loftus Construction of Cinnaminson, NJ began work on the new aqueduct. In mid-June, the $780,000 project was 99% complete.

The northern berm bank and canal prism at the Tinicum Aqueduct were also victims of torrential rains. Tinicum Creek raged in June of 2017, collapsing the earthen structures at the aqueduct, but the steel trough and its pedestrian bridge remained intact. Tinicum Aqueduct destruction and reconstruction To keep water flowing southward, DCNR installed a temporary channel. Concurrently, an engineering consultant was engaged to develop plans to restore and strengthen the earthen structures, repair the leaks in the aqueduct’s stone abutments, reinforce its stone pier in the Creek, replace the deteriorated footbridge, and refinish the steel trough.

Clearwater Construction of New Cumberland, PA began the many-faceted, $1.045M job late last winter. Work is currently progressing and expected to be completed in July.

The completion of these three major projects holds the key to rewatering the Canal from Easton to New Hope. It really can’t come soon enough, but the progress that’s been made in spite of all the obstacles this year has been impressive.

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Refreshing the Stories

sign installation at Black Rock Road — Canal Action Team (CAT) volunteer Mark Frey installing the new sign panels at the Black Rock Road Picnic Area.

The Friends is very proud of its significant role in sharing the Delaware Canal’s history Our organization has been involved in the placement of nearly all the interpretive signs that can be found from Easton to Bristol. We both create new signs and improve and replace existing ones when needed.

Late last winter, six sign panels that had been suffering from wear and defacement were replaced through a partnership between the Friends and the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor Trail Towns Amenity Grant Program.

New panels, “Where the Water Flows and “A Modern Timber Aqueduct” were installed at either end of the Tohickon Aqueduct in Point Pleasant. The “Canal Boat Graveyard” panel was replaced in Tullytown, and the kiosk at the Black Rock Road Picnic Area in Lower Makefield received three new generic interpretive signs. Clear, crisp text and photos await your visit.

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Tending the Canal

The Friends’ Canal Tender volunteers watch over and care for their sections of the towpath and waterway year-round. The Delaware Canal is so much better for their efforts.

We welcome:

Bill Low, who is a Co-Tender with Aodan and Linda Peacock for the Phillips’ Mill to Centre Bridge section
Eileen Killeen and volunteers from Yardley Friends Meeting will be adding the Woodside Road to Mt. Eyre Road stretch to their tending territory.

Many thanks to our retiring Tenders

Alex Castner and sons Will and James for tending the Wheatsheaf Road to the Conrail Tunnel section
Bob Ketler: Woodside Road to Mt. Eyre
John Manocchio: Lock 11 to Rabbit Run
Ricki Fisher: Bridge Street to Rabbit Run
Marge Copenhaver: Phillips’ Mill to Centre Bridge
Annette Heinz and the “Housewives of Rolling Hills”: Lock 17 to Uhlerstown Covered Bridge

TENDERS ARE NEEDED for these sections, which can be divided into stretches of any length:

Bristol Borough: Riverfront Park to Lagoon Park
Bristol Borough: Lagoon Park to Green Lane
Bristol Twp: Green Lane to Edgely Road
Bristol Twp/Tullytown.: Edgely Road to Levittown Shopping Center (Arby’s)
Falls Twp.: Mill Creek Road to Wheatsheaf Road
Falls Twp.: Wheatsheaf Road toTyburn Road
Falls Twp.: Tyburn Road to Railroad Obstruction
New Hope: Bridge Street to the Rabbit Run Bridge in New Hope
Tinicum Twp: Lock 17 to the Uhlerstown Covered Bridge In Tinicum Township

Can you help? Find out more at fodc.org/help-the-canal/canal-tenders/

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SHARE THE TOWPATH TRAIL, PLEASE

On a recent weekday morning, we witnessed a scene that is all too common these days. A man, focused on his phone screen, was oblivious to a bicyclist who was coming up
behind him on the towpath, and this in spite of her several calls of “On your left” and finally resorting to “Hey, dude.” The man just
continued up the middle of the towpath, and the bicyclist swerved around him narrowly avoiding a fall into the water.

The moral of this story? We all need to be mindful when using the Canal towpath.

During this time of COVID-19, the towpath is experiencing an unprecedented surge in visitation. Many of the bicyclists and walkers have never been to the Delaware Canal State Park before.
These extraordinary circumstances mean that we need to heighten our awareness of whom and what is on the towpath. The extra dividend in this is that we will be more likely to spot the wildflowers and the wildlife. The sight of a dozen turtles lined up on a log is worth a pause.

Wearig masks on a walk along the Delaware Canal in New Hope — Out for a walk along the Delaware Canal in New Hope

Be prepared to wear a mask and social distance.
If you are close to other walkers, runners, or bicyclists, please be ready to put on a mask. The CDC guidelines suggest that all persons, when possible, should maintain at least six feet of distance. This separation often is not possible on the sometimes very narrow towpath. Wearing a mask is the best solution, and it signals that you care about others.

Ride your bicycle with care.
Bicycle tires rolling on the red argillite towpath don’t create much noise, and walkers can be taken by surprise. Cyclists need to make their approaches known by using a bell, calling “on your left,” or simply saying hello to signal the intention to pass. Be mindful of low bridge clearances and limited lines of sight, and be prepared to walk a bicycle under these structures when necessary. And slow down when passing a walker or other cyclist. It is just common courtesy.

Be a good steward of the Delaware Canal State Park.
Keep the towpath clean for all to enjoy. If you take a bottle of water with you, remember to take it home. Please don’t leave used masks and gloves behind. Most restroom facilities are now open for public use, so take care to keep them clean, too.

Just be nice.
If you are traveling in a group, be sure not to block the path for others. Bicycle riders should yield to pedestrians and hikers should yield to equestrians.

The Canal towpath connects many towns, large and small, to an inspiring natural resource. It can be a beautiful day in the neighborhood for all, if we just be mindful.

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WELCOME NEW FRIENDS
Carol & Dan Achord
Lucille Aquilone
Paul & Christine Angulo
John Augustine
Tom Curry
Cindy DeKraft
Linda Fleck
Zachary Henry
Mary Kocubinski
Walter Kocubinski
Sandra & Tom Lavis
Tamie & Douglas Logan
Joanne McDonald
Patricia & Tim Merkel
Mark Miller
Michael Mitrano
Eileen O’Mahony
Sydney Mason
Paul & Casey Pane
Steve Robinson
Ian Skuse
Kate Smith
Michael Swartley
Michael Tavella
John Wehmiller
Michael Yalowitz

Canal News – Summer 2018

Progress, Setbacks and Roadblocks

No one would dispute that the Delaware Canal can be “challenging”, and, for the most part, 2018 has been a good illustration.

The recently widened bypass trough is conveying more water south through the Tinicum Aqueduct.

Impressive headway is being made on the complicated Phillips’ Mill Bridge replacement project, and, with luck, may be finished ahead of schedule this winter.

The bypass trough that carries Lehigh River water past the bank break by the Tinicum Aqueduct was recently widened and now carries a much greater volume of water to Point Pleasant. Sinkholes near the Mountainside Inn and north of Lumberville prevent the State Park from allowing water to flow farther south. The permanent repair of the bank break is being designed by engineering consultants. DCNR has decided that the aqueduct itself will be repaired rather than replaced at this time.

The “flexible flow concrete” repair technique that the Park has been using on canal prism sinkholes is working well. Unfortunately, new sinkholes are being discovered faster than the contractor has able to take care of them.

The Kleinhans Aqueduct replacement is in the final design stage and should be put out for bids this fall with construction anticipated to begin in the winter/spring, depending upon conditions.

Two stone wall repairs have been finished – the river wall north of the Virginia Forrest Recreation Area and the towpath bank wall in Erwinna.

This season’s crazy storms did a number on the Canal. Raging inflowing streams deposited branches, logs, and debris at the mouth of Windy Bush Creek in New Hope and at the Bowman’s Hill waste gate. A stationary downpour caused the Canal to overtop its banks at one location in Yardley Borough. Localized flooding with property damage was a consequence of both. Clean-up is ongoing, engineering solutions devised, and improved response instituted.

After being repaired and restarted late this spring, the Centre Bridge pump began shutting off nearly every evening during the heat wave. Investigation as to the cause is underway with fluctuating electrical power and the limitations of the safeguard device likely culprits.

The installation of a submersible pump at Bowman’s Hill to supply water to the southern end of the Canal during summer dry spells is moving along at a snail’s pace, primarily because of State purchasing restrictions.

The grass and weeds have grown sky high along the Canal, particularly in the north sections. The primary mower has been out of commission because vandals dumped dirt into its gas tank. Expecting water to be the culprit, not dirt, the Park maintenance staff, followed by the John Deere dealer, tried to dry out the tank several time. And then the dirt was discovered. The mower was back in service only to develop two different problems related to its thermostat, but it’s back in action now working its way south.

The new Lower Limeport Bridge, completed last year, suffered significant damage when one or more large vehicle tried to cross it and hit the sides. Wood rails were ripped from their bolts, guide rails bashed, and there are scrape marks all along the length of the bridge. No one has come forward to confess to the damage.

The Conrail embankment project continues to ¼ inch along. Permitting and permissions have taken an unimaginable length of time. The access, much simpler than originally envisioned, is in and shoring of the south side of the embankment is due to start. This project will not be completed as scheduled in the fall.

The construction of a trail around the Tyburn Road encroachment, an easy project, is languishing in planning and permitting. When that is done, the Park staff will quickly construct the pathway.

Depressions have developed over the culvert that carries the Cuttalossa Creek under the Canal. Sections of the culvert pipe have shifted. Holes will be drilled from the inside and the voids will be pressure grouted.

On top of all this, the already lean Delaware Canal State Park staff complement is four full-time employees short. Missing are two Maintenance Repair persons and one Equipment Operator, which are vital to the upkeep of the Canal; and one Environmental Education Specialist. These positions have been open, for the most part, more than a year. The State’s drawn-out hiring processes ( although, improvements have been initiated), hiring freezes, and the policy of having just one statewide pay scale, in spite of the fact that the cost of living varies greatly across the Commonwealth, all work to keep the Delaware Canal State Park in a constant state of need. These are issues to work on legislatively.

So, with persistence things will improve. They have for the Canal’s 191-year existence.

Onward and upward!

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A New Face at the Locktender’s House

Come by the Locktender’s House at Lock 11 in New Hope and meet our new Locktender’s House guide. Susan Schneider answered our call for someone to staff our mini historic house museum on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. She’s been a member of the Friends for years, lives along the Canal, and knows more than a thing or two about the waterway and towpath. Best of all, she loves meeting people and she knits beautifully, a perfect pastime for sitting on the House porch. Stop by to see her. She’ll be in New Hope on weekends until the end of October. Thanks, too, to Donald Macfarlan, a retired New Hope Mule Barge Ride captain and musician, for filling in when Susan can’t be there.

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Out With The Old, In With the New

Eighteen new interpretive sign panels, which tell the Delaware Canal’s basic story, are in place along the length of the Canal. They’re more colorful, more accurate, and feature a better illustration of lock locations/elevations.

Susan and Jeff Witte wrestle with a worn-out sign.

Nine Canal Action Team (known as CAT) volunteers met in New Hope on one of the rare Saturdays in May when it wasn’t raining, reviewed the process of removing the worn-out panels and installing the new, divided into two teams, and headed north and south. As you can tell from the photograph, coaxing old panels from their bases isn’t the easiest of jobs, but CAT accomplished the mission in a full morning. Many thanks!!

The project of improving and replacing the basic wayside signs came together last October when thirteen guests at the Faces and Places fundraiser contributed the funds needed to design and fabricate the new signs. Much effort went to revising text and designing new graphics; followed by a significant period of review, revision, and approval by DCNR and partners.

Now the new signs are in place and their design sets a standard for the other interpretive sign projects that the Friends have underway – a new 3-panel kiosk at Groundhog Lock in Raubsville, nine improved replacement panels in Historic Bristol Borough, and a new wayside sign in Smithtown.

Take a look at the signs when you’re passing by on the towpath, and CAT can always use some more volunteers.

CAT volunteers trained and ready to tackle sign panel replacement.

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In the Interest of Ease and Safety

Gene Kancianic makes final adjustments to the KayaArm kayak stabilizer.

The Friends have purchased a kayak stabilizing device that has been installed on the wooden dock at Locks 22/23 aka Theodore Roosevelt Recreation Area in Raubville. The KayaArm was invented and is manufactured in Canada for the purpose of making getting in and out of a kayak at a dock safe and easy. Anyone who has participated in our kayaking adventures at this location knows that a stabilizer would be a good thing.

CAT volunteers Pete Rosswaag and Gene Kancianic installed the KayaArm in July, and we’ll be trying it out during our Paddling the Canal sessions on August 18. It’s a relatively simple device with a cradle and arm that can be adjusted for varying water levels. If it works as advertised, the Friends will consider buying one or two more for other dock locations.

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To The Rescue

Five volunteers have adopted four needy sections of the Canal.

Welcome and Thank you, new Canal Tenders!

Bob Barth – Forks of the Delaware to Wy-Hit-Tuk Park

Mark Greaney – Mueller’s Store to Indian Rock Inn

Thomas Fryer – Lock 17 to Bridge 3

Alex Castner and his son Will – Conrail Embankment to Tyburn Road

In case, you’re interested in being a Canal Tender, the following sections in the southern end of the Canal still need to be adopted:

Tyburn Road to Mill Creek Road
Mill Creek Road to the Levittown Shopping Center
Levittown Shopping Center to Green Lane
Green Lane to the Bristol Borough Lagoon Park
Beaver Street to Riverfront Park

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Calendar of Events

In-Water Clean-Up Day

Sunday, August 5, 10 A.M.

Meet in the parking lot of the Bristol Amish Market, 498 Green Lane, Bristol, PA 19007

We’re coming for you, Berm Bank Trash!

We’ll be in kayaks for In-Water Clean-Up Day, unlike this photo taken in 2011 when volunteers went right into the water.

On what we hope will be a cool-ish Sunday morning, the Delaware Canal State Park educators will have their fleet of 12 kayaks at the Bristol Amish Market ready to go. Can you be one of the volunteers who will paddle south from Green Lane and extract trash from the towpath and berm banks along the way? Or be an on-land assistant who can unburden the kayak crews of their accumulations?

We’ll need about 12 hearty kayakers and 6 on-land helpers. The Park will provide paddles and PFD’s, in addition to the kayaks. The Friends will supply the trash bags and refreshments. Volunteers are asked to bring their own gloves and come dressed to tackle wet work.

The trash and debris that lies just out of reach along the Canal is really frustrating. This clean-up effort should be a fun and effective way to leap from being frustrated to being finished.

If you can help, please email friends@fodc.org or call 215-862-2021. It’s proven that a clean Canal stays cleaner.

If the water level is low in Bristol in early August, we’ll switch our efforts to the Forks of the Delaware in Easton. If this change is necessary, we’ll put out the word on www.fodc.org.

Paddling the Canal II

Saturday, August 18

10 A.M. – NOON or 1-3 P.M.

Meet in the upper parking area of the Theodore Roosevelt Recreation Area aka Locks 22/23, 198 Canal Road, Easton, PA 18042. The parking area is accessed from PA Route 611 and is located between Riegelsville and Raubsville.

This will be the second of four of our ever-popular paddling adventures. We’re pleased to be able to offer an additional date this year in cooperation with the very busy Delaware Canal State Park education staff.

Taking off from the dock at Locks 22/23.

You don’t even have to own a boat to see the Delaware Canal from the vantage of the water. State Park Educator Katie Martens has equipped kayaks ready to be loaned for these morning and afternoon sessions of paddling. They’re perfect opportunities to try out the sport of kayaking.

Our round-trip journey will begin at Locks 22/23. The two locks were combined in the 1800’s, and now the deep, stone structure is the first lock south of Easton, where the rush of Lehigh River water enters the Delaware Canal. The lively southward current requires kayakers and canoeists to put a bit more oomph into their paddling as they head north, but the trip back will be a breeze. The scenery along the way is lovely, especially at St. Paul’s Church in Raubsville; and there are great tales to tell about the lost town of Uhlersville, the remains of the hydroelectric plant that powered the Easton-to-Doylestown trolley line, and “Ripple Rock.”

You may bring your own kayak or canoe and personal flotation device or your may borrow one of the equipped kayaks that the Park staff will have on hand. For each session, there are 16 seats available in 12 single kayaks and 2 tandems.

Registration is required for this activity. Please do so early. You many sign up by contacting 215-862-2021 or friends@fodc.org. They are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are planning to use Park equipment, a $10 per person donation is requested on the day of the event.

Paddle the summer away!

A Multi-Faceted Afternoon in Historic Bristol Borough

Saturday, August 18, 3 P.M.

Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library

680 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA 19007

Historic Bristol Borough is a diamond with many facets. Join us as we discover some of the best.

Our afternoon will begin at the Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library, beautifully situated along the Delaware River. Two treats are in store there. “Paradise Ditch,” a short 1950’s era film about the Delaware Cana and surrounding area, will be projected. It’s a real period piece including shots of mule-drawn boats, locktenders, and skinny dipping whippersnappers taken during the preceding 25 years.

Rich history, revitalization, community spirit and river views can all be experienced in Bristol Borough. This is a view from the Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library garden to the Delaware River.

Also on view will be an exceptional special exhibit, “Made in America: The Grundy Mill and the Business of Spinning Wool. It features the iconic woolen mill owned by Bristol Borough’s foremost citizen and philanthropist Joseph R. Grundy. The daily lives of mill workers and the wool manufacturing process are featured, and the perspectives of industrialists and the political environment of the time are interwoven. It’s a fascinating story with compelling photographs and maps.

Outside, we’ll take in the Library’s lovely rooftop patio garden and walk along the Delaware River using the new Bristol History Trail. There are benches for river and boat watching and a series of interpretive signs explaining the area.

After our Library visit, you are invited to do the Bristol Stroll on your own. (Bristol Stomping is allowed, too.) The Stroll route will lead you down Radcliffe Street and into the center of town. Along the way, you will see exceptional colonial and Victorian buildings, the famous Wharf, the busy new pier and dock, and the monuments in Riverfront Park. The town’s many restaurants and shops along Radcliffe and Mill Streets await your visit.

There is always something good happening in Historic Bristol Borough.

Skirting Scudder Falls – A Late Summer Saunter

Sunday, August 26, 4 P.M.

Meet in the parking lot at the intersection of Taylorsville Road and Mt. Eyre Road, Yardley, PA 19067

A new I-95 bridge is being built across the Delaware River at Scudder Falls. The gargantuan project started a year ago and won’t be complete until 2021. The new bridge structure will span both the Delaware Canal in Pennsylvania and the Delaware and Raritan Canal in New Jersey and includes a pedestrian/bike way with connections to both canal towpaths.

On our Late Summer Saunter along the towpath we’ll get a firsthand view of the current state of the project as well as see two

An artist’s rendering of the new Scudder Falls Bridge, to be completed in 2021. Graphic courtesy of the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission.

canal locks. First up on our 2.4-mile roundtrip walk will be the Dyer’s Creek waste gate and overflow south of Mt. Eyre Road. Here we’ll learn about the vital functions of these structures; then on to Lock 7 aka Borden’s Lock. The stone walls of Lock 7 were meticulously restored by the Friends more than a decade ago. The workmanship is well worth admiring as well as the spirit and conviction of the mason who re-laid each stone. Lock 7 is also home to the Delaware Canal State Park Maintenance Area, which has some interesting stories all of its own.

The existing Scudder Falls Bridge and the sprawling new bridge construction site come into view as we cross Woodside Road. Take this opportunity to see the project up close and find out what’s to come, including a new Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission headquarters, towpath trail connections, and comfort facilities in the 1799 House.

Next up is Lock 6 aka Lear’s Lock, which is our turnaround point. Hear some of the colorful tales told by Chester Lear, the son of Lock 6’s last locktender. On our way back to Mt. Eyre Road, we’ll check out the sights that we may have missed on the way south.

Take this opportunity to be in the know.

Paddling the Canal III

Sunday, September 9

10 A.M. – NOON or 1-3 P.M.

Meet at Tinicum Park, 963 River Road, Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972.

When entering the Park, follow the roadway back to the parking area closest to the Canal.

Some sun, some shade. You can find what you like while paddling along the Canal.

As the fall sets in, we’ll be paddling on the Canal with the advantage of having two historic villages along the route. To the south will be Erwinna, a bustling town while the Canal was in commercial operation. It was home to the Canal Superintendent and boasted all the necessary canal-related businesses, including a boat building yard. Uhlerstown and Lock 18 will be our northern turnaround point. There we can paddle under the only public covered bridge over the Canal and view the buildings that once served the canal trade and now have been lovingly preserved and converted for residential use. Uhlerstown is reputed to be the “best preserved Canal hamlet in America.”

Delaware Canal State Park educator Katie Martens will be leading both the morning and afternoon sessions and will have fully equipped kayaks available to borrow. You may reserve a Park kayak or bring your own canoe or kayak and personal flotation device.

Registration is required. The details are provided in the Paddling the Canal II – August 18 notice. The Park kayaks are claimed quickly, so call or e-mail as soon as you can, particularly if you’re planning to paddle with family or friends.

See the Canal’s historic villages from the water.

Paddling the Canal IV

Sunday, October 21

10 A.M. – NOON or 1-3 P.M.

Meet at the Black Rock Road Picnic Area at the intersection of the Canal and Black Rock Road in Yardley.

Autumn colors will surround us as we paddle south from Black Rock Road through the widest of the Canal’s widewaters. Trees tower overhead where mule-drawn canal boats pulled over to the side to get out of the way of “traffic,“ much like trucks pull over on highway shoulders today.

The Canal widewaters have evolved into abundant habitats where turtles, great blue herons, ducks, frogs, fish and all sorts of other critters can be spotted. In this final paddling adventure before colder weather sets in, we should see an assortment of wildlife, perhaps even the beaver that we saw this spring.

After instructing everyone on kayaking safety and technique, State Park Educator Katie Martens will lead the fleet south both in the morning and afternoon. She will have fully equipped kayaks available to borrow. You may reserve a Park kayak or you’re very welcome to bring your own canoe or kayak and personal flotation device.

Registration is required. The details are provided in the Paddling the Canal II – August 18 notice. Please call or e-mail early, so that you don’t end up on the waiting list. The Park kayak are much in demand.

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Special Events

Canal Walk 2018

September 29, October 6, 13, 20, 27

This hearty and still smiling group walked all 58.9 miles of the Canal last year.

Before the celebration of last year’s 30^th Anniversary, there was a thought to change our Canal Walk around a bit in 2018, perhaps dividing the 58.9 mile trek into eight shorter sections rather the five traditional 12-mile-or-so legs. In fact, we even included a question in Canal News. When only one person responded that he thought that shorter walks would be a good idea and lots of people walked the entire 30^th anniversary walk, the thought flew out the window.

So, we will be doing Canal Walk 2018 in the way it’s always been done – five walks conducted over five successive Saturdays. This year we’ll be starting in Riverfront Park in Historic Bristol Borough and heading north to Easton.

It’s time to start getting in shape and find the perfect pair of walking shoes. The full Canal Walk 2018 itinerary will appear in the Fall issue of Canal News and on-line at www.fodc.org. Will this be your year to take on the challenge and enjoy the sights and camaraderie?

Faces and Places – Save the Date…October 14

You are cordially invited to join the Friends of the Delaware Canal for our ninth annual signature event – Faces & Places – A Celebration of the Arts and History along the Delaware Canal.

The river valley and rolling hills of northern Bucks County are our destination this year as we explore Riegelsville and Durham. On our chauffeured tour will be:

The stately Robert A. Shimer House on Riegelsville’s Mansion Row. A showpiece of the town’s industrial wealth, the stone mansion was built in 1898 with great style. Today it reflects its Edwardian heritage and the many interests of it current owner, who proudly serves as the local constable.
The “Roebling Bridge,” one of the most graceful structures spanning the Delaware River. A walk from Riegelsville, PA to Riegelsville, NJ offers memorable views, refreshing breezes, and a bit of Brooklyn Bridge aura.
Durham, a now quiet village where ore in the hills led prominent colonial investors to erect a nation-building iron furnace. The boats that carried George Washington’s troops were invented here, and a replica will be on view. A walk through the town’s gristmill will reveal the secrets of its inner workings, and the nearby historic houses beg to be strolled by.
A ride through the countryside down to the river with picture-perfect farms, churches, pristine Cook’s Creek, and lovely vistas along the way.

Ending the day by the Delaware River, we’ll arrive at the historic Riegelsville Inn where drinks, hors d’oeuvres and dinner will be waiting in the dining room and out on the canalside patio.

For more information or to make reservations on-line, visit www.fodc.org and click on the Event link on the homepage or e-mail friends@fodc.org or e-mail friends@fodc.org.

Individual tickets are $150 each; patron tickets are $250. Special sponsorship opportunities are available.

Join us for Faces & Places in the north!

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A Very Ducky Season

The crowd lined the towpath waiting for the racing ducks to drop into the Canal.

Yellow rubber duckies connected the Friends to more than a thousand people this spring and summer. Smiles, creativity, and awareness blossomed. In the spirit of past Canal Festivals, the Friends sponsored “The Great Yardley Duck Race” on June 9 and had duck decorating booths at two First Fridays in Historic Bristol Borough and at the Tinicum Arts Festival. A good time was had by all in support of the Friends’ efforts to improve the Canal.

Many thanks to our volunteer “duck handlers “ – Mark Baldwin, Bob Behney, Robin Butrey, Pam Can, Bart Davidoff, Richard Emmons, Susan Firestone, Margie and Rick Mingione, Susan and Lily Schneider, Larry Reinfeld, Pete Rosswaag, and Jerry Taylor. And we very much appreciate the help of the Bristol Borough Business Association, Tinicum Civic Association, Yardley Farmers Market, Yardley General and Yardley Borough in hosting our ducky activities.

All finished at First Friday in Historic Bristol Borough.

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125 Years of Conservation

On May 30, the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives passed Resolution 901 recognizing the 125^th anniversary of Pennsylvania’s state forest and state park systems.

Did you know —-

A bill signed in 1893 formed the Pennsylvania Forestry Commission, tasked with the control of forest fires and to establish a forest reserve system. The system began with the purchase of 7,500 acres in Clinton County.

Pennsylvania’s first state park was designated in 1893 to mark a Revolutionary War site. In 1976 it became Valley Forge National Historical Park under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.

Gifford Pinchot State Park is named after the nation’s “First Forester.” Pinchot was appointed by President Theodore Roosevelt to head the U.S. Forest Service and then served as Pennsylvania State Forestry Commissioner before becoming governor in 1923.

In 1955, Maurice K. Goddard was appointed director of the Department of Parks and Forests. At the time there were 44 Pennsylvania state parks. Dr. Goddard proposed building a state park within 25 miles of every resident of Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania’s New State Parks: A Report to the General Assembly was released in 1957. It studied 175 potential state parks sites, which were evaluated on water, location, topography, subsurface conditions, availability, and scenic and historical significance. Acquisition of the some of the new state parks began immediately.

Pennsylvania’s state park system was recognized in 2009 as the best in the nation by the National Recreation and Park Association.

There were nearly 40 million visitors to Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests in 2017, generating approximately $4billion for the economy.

Today Pennsylvania has one of the nation’s largest state park systems with 121 state parks encompassing nearly 300,000 acres.

The newest state park in the system is the 500-acre Washington Crossing Historic Park.

To learn 116 more interesting things about Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests and to find out about 125^th anniversary events, visit https://paparksandforests.org/

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Hot Jazz / Cool Location

A Concert and Dinner at the Home of Linda Kenyon

Saturday, September 22 at 6 P.M.

3015 North Sugan Road, New Hope, PA 18938

Back by popular demand! Eric Mintel’s music and Linda Kenyon’s dinners are irresistible.

Join us for a captivating evening at a very cool location where you’ll have the chance to enjoy a unique music and dining experience. As you enter Linda’s striking home, you’ll be greeted by friends, spirits and savory hors d’oeuvres. After some mingling, seats will be found, and the acclaimed Eric Mintel Quartet will perform two sets of jazz with Linda’s famous soup served during the break. An elegant dinner creatively prepared by Linda in the best tradition of Julia Child will be ready when the music ends.

Jazz legend Dave Brubeck said, “As long as the music attracts dedicated young musicians like Eric Mintel, jazz will continue to thrive and progress as a voice of freedom.” Joining Mintel on piano will be Nelson Hill on sax and flute, Brian Bortz on bass, and Dave Mohn on drums. The Quartet thrills audiences of all ages and connects with people all over the world.

Bucks County’s Eric Mintel has played piano all his life. His career highlights include two performances at the White House, several concerts at the Kennedy Center, and a special concert at the United Nations.

You won’t want to miss this special occasion!

Donation: $100 per person for the concert and dinner.

Please make your reservations by clicking here, calling 215-862-2021 or e-mailing friends@fodc.org.

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Welcome, New Friends!

Joyce Bigley

Sandy Burdulis

Alex Castner

Chris Cummins

Christine Curtis

Sue and Greg Derr

Mary Lou and Frederick Erk

Carolyn Forcina

Jane and John Grim

Cheryl and Lee Hennessey

John Hommer

Jonathan Kemmerley

Jennifer Koplin

Virginia Kraft

William Larrison

Albert Prohaska

Catherine Neil and Charles Reichner

Rostair Foundation

David Salkin

Lisa Schwartz

Stephan Design Center

Patsy and David Wang-Iverson

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Full Moon Towpath Trek, in New Hope, PA

Full Moon Towpath Trek, in New Hope, PA

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS WALK.

Venture along the towpath at twilight to see the full moon rise above the Delaware River.

Contact Us

Help the Canal

Get Email Updates

Menu

Full Moon Towpath Trek, in New Hope, PA

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS WALK.

Venture along the towpath at twilight to see the full moon rise above the Delaware River.

Canal News – Fall 2023

A Locktender’s Life

Dawn to Dusk

A Family Affair

Locktender Houses

A Living Legacy

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Canal Tender Spotlight

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WHAT’S IT WORTH?

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WHERE’S THE WATER?

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HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS

Give us a call at 215-862-2021 or email us at friends@fodc.org and get your holiday shopping done today!

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CATTAILS ARE NO MATCH FOR OUR CAT TEAM MEMBERS

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ANNUAL YEAR-END APPEAL

Canal News – Summer 2020

Another Camelback Bridge Project Crossed Off the To-Do List

Park Manager’s Report

The Friends heartily thank all the Delaware Canal State Park staff for keeping the towpath and waterway open during these extremely challenging times!

Calendar of Events

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BUTTON, BUTTON

SMILING AT THE LOCKTENDER’S HOUSE

The Construction Countdown 3 – 2 – 1 – Done

Refreshing the Stories

Tending the Canal

SHARE THE TOWPATH TRAIL, PLEASE

Canal News – Summer 2018

Progress, Setbacks and Roadblocks

A New Face at the Locktender’s House

Out With The Old, In With the New

In the Interest of Ease and Safety

To The Rescue

Calendar of Events

In-Water Clean-Up Day

Paddling the Canal II

A Multi-Faceted Afternoon in Historic Bristol Borough

Skirting Scudder Falls – A Late Summer Saunter

Paddling the Canal III

Paddling the Canal IV

Special Events

Canal Walk 2018

September 29, October 6, 13, 20, 27

Faces and Places – Save the Date…October 14

A Very Ducky Season

125 Years of Conservation

Hot Jazz / Cool Location

A Concert and Dinner at the Home of Linda Kenyon

Welcome, New Friends!

Contact Us

Help the Canal

Get Email Updates

Menu

The Construction Countdown
3 – 2 – 1 – Done