Way back when, Plan B was to unpack everything and carry it all to the other side of the falls to continue the journey. But clearly, there had to be an easier way. And there was, once technology caught up with the concept.
Thus, the Welland Canal eventually was born. It first simply went around the falls to Buffalo in the 1820s, and certainly that changed the shipping business in the area. But soon the canal was expanded to go to Port Colborne and its access to Lake Erie. It was as big of a hit as you could imagine, to the point where three more canals were built. The one you can see in St. Catharines, right by the Welland Canals Center, is No. 4. They've gotten bigger and better as time has passed.
The only way to be closer to the enormous ships that pass through the locks is to work for a shipping company. There's a great viewing station at Lock Number 3. It's great fun to watch these mammoth ships squeeze into the locks with inches to spare, and then rise or fall in minutes depending on the chosen direction. It takes a number of locks to get over the Niagara Escarpment, but this system does the job.
The lock is bordered on one side by a park-like setting. There are some giant old anchors on display, as well as a tribute to those who gave their lives in the building of the canals. Happily, the building that overlooks the lock has a display that tells when boats are expected to go through the lock. It's worth the wait.
By the way, there's a nice gift shop inside. It has some good books and clever t-shirts about the canal as well as other items.
A video is obviously needed here:
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