Lock Tenders Tribute
80 Canal Street, Lockport, NY 14094
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About the Business
Lock Tenders Tribute: Celebrating Lockport's Rich Canal Heritage
Welcome to Lock Tenders Tribute, a unique and heartfelt tourist attraction located at 80 Canal Street, Lockport, New York. Here, we honor the hardworking individuals who played a pivotal role in the operation of the Erie Canal's Flight of Five Locks, connecting the bustling ports of Buffalo to New York City and beyond.
Our story begins with a remarkable 1897 photograph taken by Frank Bernard Clench, capturing 12 dedicated lock tenders and a young girl on the stone steps between the locks. This image has been immortalized through a series of life-size statues crafted by acclaimed sculptor Susan Geissler, offering a tangible connection to our storied past.
Thanks to the diligent research of local genealogists and historians, we have uncovered the identities and stories of these individuals, allowing us to connect with over 70 of their descendants. The culmination of this research was celebrated on September 16, 2023, with the dedication of the final statue, marking the completion of a four-year artistic endeavor.
Each statue tells a story of perseverance and community spirit. Among them, you'll find Frank J. LeValley Jr., a lock tender who rose to become a foreman, and Michael Oates, an Irish immigrant who continued the tradition of his heritage by working on the canal. From the industrious William J. Bower to the young Bessie Wagoner, each figure represents a piece of Lockport’s vibrant history.
The Lock Tenders Tribute not only celebrates these individuals but also invites visitors to explore the larger narrative of the Erie Canal and its significant economic and cultural impact. As you walk among the statues, you’ll step back in time to an era where the canal was a lifeline for commerce and community.
Join us at Lock Tenders Tribute to honor the legacy of those who made the Erie Canal a bustling artery of trade and transportation. Discover the stories of resilience, political intrigue, and community that shaped Lockport and continue to influence our lives today. Visit us and be part of this enduring tribute to the men and women who helped shape our nation’s history.
Reviews
"A tribute to the current locktender ! Biked through on the Erie Canal trail, and stopped to fix a flat and check out the historic sites. The locktender was so friendly, hung out while we fixed the flat, supplied us with a map, and showed us how the locks worked when a boat came through. Really awesome spot to fix a flat tire."
"This tribute is another piece of the Lockport experience that includes the current locks, the rebuilt historic locks, boat rides, cave tours, a couple museums and more. It is between the two sets of locks and open to the public without charge. These are life sized statues, so make certain to sit next to them and get your photo taken."
"Tribute to Lock Tenders with bronze statues."
"Was quite surprised at seeing this sculpture as it is sooo... well done by Susan Geissler, a local artist. The way the sculpture is situated, it also makes for an interesting photo that can include "live" people in the photo for an interesting "selfie"."
"An amazing tribute to the all the workers who built and maintained the Erie Canal locks and "Flight of Five". The sculptures by local artist, Susan Geissler, are so real they seem to be alive. They are actually a representation of an historic photograph. Even the photographer is included! This will become one of the areas leading attractions, and a springboard to those who want to learn more about the fascinating history of the locks."
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