The Birth of the Ohio-Erie Canal to be Subject of January Meeting

Dr. Kenneth J. Bindas, a professor and former chair of history at Kent State University, will speak about “The Opening of Ohio: Canal Boats, Technology, and the Ohio-Erie Canal” when he speaks to Hudson Heritage Association on Thursday, January 12.  A well-respected local historian, Bindas will discuss the evolution of the Ohio-Erie Canal from layout to execution of a master plan involving excavation, lock construction and canal boat building. He also will discuss how the Ohio-Erie Canal put Northeast Ohio on the national and international map during the early days of Ohio’s history. The meeting, to be held at the Barlow Community Center, begins at 7:30 p.m.

Dr. Bindas specializes in modern American cultural and intellectual history. He has written numerous books on the intersection of politics, culture, and class during the Depression era, including The Civilian Conservation Corps and the Construction of the Virginia Kendall Reserve, 1933-1939.  He also worked as a producer, writer, and assistant director for a PBS documentary, Invisible Struggles: Stories of Northern Segregation. Kent State University has recognized him with the Outstanding Research and Scholar Award, the Diversity Leadership Award, and the Arts & Sciences Distinguished Teacher Award.

Conceived as a way to link the Ohio River with Lake Erie, the Ohio-Erie Canal opened profitable East Coast markets including New York City to Ohio’s farmers and merchants via a water route that began in Portsmouth and worked its way north over 308 miles.  Dug largely by Irish and German immigrants, the canal operated from 1832 until the historic flood of 1913 destroyed key parts of it.  Remnants of the canal remain, including a number that can be seen in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. HHA’s monthly meetings are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served following the evening’s presentations.