Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

New Jersey Historic Trust Affiliated with the Department of Community Affairs

Morris Canal: Lock 4 to 5 West

Garden State Historic Preservation Trust Fund
Historic Site Management Grant
Grant Award: $38,888 (2006); $12,000 (2010)
Grant Recipient: Canal Society of New Jersey
County: Warren
Municipality: Saxton Falls vicinity

The Morris Canal operated from 1824 to 1924. The canal was an important catalyst for industrial and commercial development in northern New Jersey. In addition to providing a more efficient mode of transporting goods to market, the canal provided a means to transport anthracite coal from the mines of Pennsylvania to such industrial cities as Patterson and Newark.

Locks 4 and 5 are important elements of the canal's engineering design. The towpath's built-up causeway is a unique feature. The Lock Tender's house is in deteriorated condition. The two locks have been filled, but are visible. The towpath is in fair condition, with three breeches of the causeway. These portions of the canal are owned by the State of New Jersey and are located within Allamuchy State Park. The surviving features provide an excellent opportunity for archaeological investigations regarding this important engineering work.

The 2006 grant helped fund a feasibility study to develop strategies, including funding sources and tourism capacity, for the rehabilitation of two locks, a towpath, and reuse of the Lock Tender's house. The 2010 grant funded the preparation of design and contract documents for the stabilization of the Lock Tender's House.

For more information, visit: http://www.morriscanal.org/


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