Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Tow Path Ride

During the 1800's, canals were used back East as a main source of transporting goods. We are fortunate enough to live not far from the Delaware river and canal where you can take a ride on the once used canal. I love this sort of thing so this past Saturday tried it out.

Here is the boat that we made our voyage in. I believe it was called the Josiah White II but don't quote me on that. Jackson thought it was like Noah's Ark. Maybe but I think the windows on the lower deck would have let too much water in. The happy crew getting ready to push off. I think the kids were a little clueless as to what was happening or what we were doing.
I love Jackson's face in this picture. We just told him that the mule's were going to pull the boat. He was excited about it. John-David looks a little stunned.
Here are the mules that pulled us. They actually didn't have to do a ton of work because the momentum of the boat of the water is what really pushed them along. The mules just help get them started. We learned a lot of facts about mules, tow paths and life of the canal. I am really glad I was born when I was. I wouldn't have made a very good canal wife.
We didn't go very far on the canal but our ride was about 40 minutes long. That was due to the fact the maximum speed per hour is 4 miles. Back in the days of it's use, you would get a speeding ticket if you went to fast.
This is a lock house and the turn around point of our ride. This house was also the canal laundry mat. You could drop your clothes off heading down the river and pick them back up on your trip returning.
Kelsey is always entertaining us. She found playing peek-a-boo was much more entertaining than the boat ride.
Jocelyn and Jackson really liked the ride. Jackson was really excited when they said they had "canalagators" also known as snapping turtles on the river. He never did see one though.
This was the lower level of the boat where they have catered dinners for fall foliage rides. This is where the cargo would have gone like coal. It was fun to learn more about the history of the area. I hope to find more things like this.

6 comments:

Mike and Bridgett said...

That is so cool! I love the scenery that you live with everyday and the amazing things that you can go and experience! LUCKY!!

Camey said...

What a cool adventure! It is still really hot here so we don't get out too much. Nate starts work on Tuesday- finally.

Stephers said...

You guys are always finding fun things to do in the towns you live in. I need to be more outgoing and find things I am sure we have never done in SL! Love Jackson's face, he is such a ham. Your girlies are so beautiful. I love how they look like siblings, but have there own personalities :) I have e-mailed Nicole to see when she would be available to head out to see you guys... We will put something together and I will let you know what is going on when I hear back from her!!! Cannot wait to explore your new town with you :)

Marianne said...

Um, FUN! OH, how I wish I had a Kathryn around to plan some cool outings like this. Maybe when we come to visit in May??? Jocey's hair is money. Seriously. Cute pictures of your family. Miss you guys!!

M&M said...

It looks so cute and fun out there. We need to come visit!

The Sweet Petes said...

That looks way cool! I am glad that you will get to scope out all the fun happenings out there so that we can take full advantage in a short 8 months!