Canals are artificial inland waterways which are used to provide irrigation, water supply and hydroelectric power generation as well as a means of economical transportation. Changes in water levels along the canal require the building of locks to enable vessels to travel from one level to another.
The plan to construct a navigable waterway through the wilderness between Lake Ontario and the Ottawa River was conceived after the War of 1812. It was designed to provide a secure supply route from Montréal to Kingston, avoiding the vulnerable St. Lawrence River route.
Trivia: The St. Lawrence Seaway was formally opened on June 26 in 1959 in ceremonies held at St. Lambert, Quebec. The waterway - which provides access to the Great Lakes from the Atlantic Ocean - was a joint project of the United States and Canada. President Eisenhower and Britain's Queen Elizabeth took part in the dedication ceremonies. More About Canals Associated sites: The Welland Canal - Info Niagra |
Rideau Canal, CANADA - The Rideau Canal, completed in 1832, is 202 kilometre in length and the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America. It is considered to be one of North America's major 19th century achievements.
