CAPTURE THE ERIE CANAL IN WAYNE COUNTY

The Erie Canal officially opened in 1825 with full service from the great lakes, through Buffalo to Albany and on to NYC. The Canal captured the hearts of the American people, but only for a short time. New Yorkers would never be the same. There was much excitement, and the local population of Wayne County nearly doubled during the years of its construction into the 1830's.

This movie explores the allure of life on the canal versus working for the competing railroads. It also addresses the desire for early Americans to settle, buy land and enjoy property ownership. A young Henry Fonda stars as our "farmer," while Janet Gaynor plays his potential "wife." This early production on the big screen, focuses on the canal in our region of the state and mentions Palmyra, Lyons, and Rochester. From Fox Studio and director Victor Fleming, this will kick off our year-long celebration of the Erie Canal.

Trivia questions will be distributed before the movie with questions about the movie, the construction and operation of the Erie Canal, and the numerous historic sites and figures in Wayne County linked to the Erie Canal. Prizes will be given out after the movie.

This event is a fundraiser for the Wayne County Historical Society, with proceeds supporting  the mission of the Wayne County Museum of History to collect, preserve and share local history.

$5 donation requested per person at the door.

Doors open at 6pm.

Movie starts at 6:15pm.

Run time 1:30.