The Erie Canal Discovery Center is a new state-of-the-art interpretive center for the Erie Canal, and particularly the role that Lockport, NY played in the history of the Erie Canal.
We feature the 13' x 20' Raphael Beck mural, "The Opening of the Erie Canal, October 26, 1825." This beautiful floor to ceiling mural depicts the celebration surrounding then NY Governor Dewitt Clinton's ceremonial first passage through the now famous "Flight of Five" locks in Lockport to officially open the Erie Canal.
Individuals from the painting "come to life" with the assistance of virtual-reality, through computer kiosks in the Center. A multidimensional orientation film transports the visitor back in time on board a recreation of the packet boat Western Comet.
Additional audiovisual stations such as the "Hard Rock Canal" and "Work the Lock" allow guests the hands-on opportunity to view the dolomite rock wall in Lockport and to navigate a model ship through an actual working series of locks.
The life and times of "canawlers," people who lived and worked on the canal, as well as "canal kids," are depicted in exhibits that feature the latest technology in communication "sound-sticks."
The National Park Service rounds out the many displays with their own description of the National Heritage Corridor.
24 Church Street