Replica of famed canal boat will be in Orleans County next week

Provided photo: A replica of the Seneca Chief will stop in Medina on Aug. 12 and Aug. 16.

Press Release, Orleans County Tourism

MEDINA – Get ready to witness history from a new perspective as the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief docks at 1 Canal Basin in Medina on Monday, Aug. 12, and Friday, Aug. 16.

Both days consist of live music, food trucks, engaging speaker series, and free tours of the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief from 4 to 7 p.m.

Constructed by the Buffalo Maritime Center, the boat is a reproduction of the original Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief that opened the Erie Canal in 1825. It  will make a trial run through Lockport, Medina, Brockport and Rochester in 2024 as preparation for its 2025 voyage to New York City. The 2025 journey marks the Erie Canal Bicentennial, honoring 200 years since the canal’s official opening.

According to Dawn Borchert, Director of Orleans County Tourism, the event will happen rain or shine and attendees are encouraged to bring a chair and stay for the afternoon. Food trucks will be available for dinner at the canal basin. Visitors can take advantage of free boat and exhibit tours, witness boat-building demonstrations, and even try paddle-shaping.

This historic moment for the Buffalo Maritime Center represents an exciting opportunity for Medina to experience maritime history. The Buffalo Maritime Center inspires meaningful connections and life lessons through community boatbuilding, preserving maritime culture, and exploring the waterways of Western New York.

Learn more  by checking www.orleanscountytourism.com/events/2024-sea-trial-of-seneca-chief.