The Ohio and Erie Canal, Cleveland, OH

Constructed in the early 1800s, the Ohio and Erie Canal connected the Ohio River and Lake Erie, and provided a water route for freight barges until 1861, when the advance of the railroads put the canal in decline. Constructed in the early 1800s, the Ohio and Erie Canal connected the Ohio River and Lake Erie, and provided a water route for freight barges until 1861, when the advance of the railroads put the canal in decline. Constructed in the early 1800s, the Ohio and Erie Canal connected the Ohio River and Lake Erie, and provided a water route for freight barges until 1861, when the advance of the railroads put the canal in decline. Though it still served as a water source for towns and industries until 1913, the canal was finally abandoned after most of it was destroyed by a flood. Visitors interested in the history of the canal can still see many of its remains throughout Northern Ohio, most of which can be reached by car, foot, and bicycle. The Towpath Trail in Cuyahoga Valley National Park provides the best viewing for hikers and bikers.