When I was a kid growing up in Delphi, Ind., in the 1950s, the abandoned segment of the old Wabash & Erie Canal was a nasty, algae-covered eyesore out on North Washington Street.
Knowing little of its history, I supposed the people of the town would eventually get sick of it, drain it and fill it with dirt.
Instead, a group of citizens have transformed it into a tourist destination, complete with a
park, interpretive center and conference center.Classmate Tina Tyner emailed me the news of the most recent development over the weekend - the launching of a replica canal boat.
Here are the announcement and the photos:
THE ORIGINAL "CANAL DREAM" BECOMES A REALITY
Finally the long awaited arrival of the replica canal boat has come. Wednesday, June 3 saw the unloading (in the rain) and floating of the 54-foot-long, 10-foot-wide colorful boat and can carry 42 passengers and crew. It was the dream of the early canal directors in the 1980s.
Inauguration of "the DELPHI" is Saturday, June 20 at 10 a.m. Free boat rides Saturday are in conjunction with Heritage Transportation Festival activities. The Wheelmen with their high wheel bikes and “bicycle built for two” next to the ice cream and nearby food vendors outside the historic 1844 Case House.
Other events are found downtown where the Opera House and new art gallery will be open on Saturday. Then on Sunday (Father's Day) the festival moves to the Delphi Airport beginning with a "fly-in" breakfast.
Spring has been an especially busy time for the Canal volunteers. Weather has caused delays in completing work on the canal banks and the construction of the Guard Lock. Now we are caught up with spring work and ready to celebrate -- HIP-HIP-HOORAY !!
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