The Oswego Canal – Gateway to the Great Lakes

Opened in 1828, the Oswego Canal is known as one of America’s most successful inland waterways after the Erie Canal, transporting goods from the Great Lakes and Midwest markets all along the eastern seaboard. At Three Rivers, west of Syracuse, the Erie Canal meets the Oswego River, a "canalized" river comprised of seven locks flowing north 24 miles to Oswego and Lake Ontario.

As you travel north, you will notice numerous tiny islands along the way. Just before the town of Phoenix, near buoy 12, take note of Treasure Island where according to tale, 50 Frenchmen, including 6 Jesuits set up a mission on the island intending to convert the Onondaga Indians to Christianity in 1656. However, two years later, the relationship between the French and the Indians grew tense and there were rumors of impending attacks. Upon hearing this, the French fled the island in 1658, leaving behind a cannon and gold. Though the gold has never been found, the island then became known as Treasure Island.

While you continue north, say "hello" to the Bridge House Brats in Phoenix. This group of entrepreneurial 8-21 year olds has captivated numerous boaters over the last few years with their hard work ethic and friendly smiles. Serving boaters’ every need, from boat cleaning to errand running, the dedication of these young people is well known by boaters along the Canal System. The bridge house is similar to that of a lighthouse and was built in 1917 during the construction of the Barge Canal. Located within, there is a small museum, which contains a replica of the Day Peckinpaugh, a 256-foot-long barge that was the last commercial barge to travel the Oswego Canal. Built in 1921, this vessel made frequent trips between Rome and Oswego, New York.  The actual Day Peckinpaugh was saved from the scrapyard in Erie, PA in 2005 and is in Waterford, NY where it is being rehabbed and will be turned into a floating museum and classroom.

This Canal also has an active fishing population and is one of the best places along the New York State Canal System to catch a prize fish. Boasting everything from Chinook salmon and northern pike to walleye, carp and small mouth bass, some of the State’s records have been caught in this part of the Canal. Such records have included a 47 pound, 13 ounce Chinook salmon in 1991, a 33 pound, 2 ounce brown trout in 1997 and a 33 pound, 7 ounce Coho salmon in 1998. Charter boats can be hired in Oswego to capture some of the days-best catch.

As the gateway from the Canal System to the Great Lakes, the City of Oswego is most renowned for its harbor as a boat-building and fishing city, yet this city holds a little known secret. In 1944, 982 refugees fleeing Nazi persecution were relocated to Fort Ontario in Oswego. Known as "Safe Haven," this was the only site in the United States to house Holocaust survivors. The refugees were from 18 countries and had traveled from Italy to New York Harbor by ship, then by train to Oswego. This camp gave the refugees tools of the trade, teaching the men woodworking skills and the women hairdressing, while giving them English lessons and allowing their children to attend nearby Oswego schools. An exhibit and video memorializing this site & its history are on display at Fort Ontario Park and is open to the public. The exhibit features photos, reproductions of documents and memorabilia.

As you travel along the Oswego Canal and visit the various towns and villages, the communities along this Canal feature a diverse range of architectural styles, reflective of the times and period tastes. If you feel like stretching your legs for a stroll, you can find several styles of buildings including Federal Style (1800-1840), Greek Revival (1830-1860), Italianate (1850-1880) and Second Empire Style (1860-1880). Some unique buildings to see include the Oswego County Courthouse and the Oswego City Library. Built in 1859, the courthouse incorporates Greek Revival, Italianate and Roman styles in its rounded windows, columns and domes. Reflecting the romantic times of the pre-Civil War times, the library is a source of pride for many Oswego residents. Complete with battlements, towers, turrets and arcaded windows, it was completed in 1856 and is the oldest original library building in the State.

All in all, the Oswego Canal offers a wide range of options for travelers and visitors. Events such as Oswego Harborfest in July draw thousands of people each year and boasts one of the best fireworks displays along the Canal.  For more detailed information on this region or to obtain information on the Oswego Canal, please contact the Oswego County Department of Promotion at 315-349-8322.

OSWEGO CANAL BOATING OPTIONS

Overnight Cruise w/ Accommodations

• American Canadian Caribbean Line, Inc. – 1-800-556-7450 – Caribbean Prince, Mayan Prince, Niagara Prince (overnight cruises)