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Join Tom Colbert on a fascinating guided tour of Lock 31, a crucial part of the historic D&H Canal. Gain a deep understanding of the pivotal role coal played in shaping American life as we know it today. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience - click the link now to start the tour.

Guided Tour of Lock 31

The D&H Canal Park at Lock 31 has 16 beautiful acres to explore. The site features the historic Daniels Farmhouse (circa 1820s), the D&H Canal, and Canal lock 31. Throughout the park you can read the many interpretive signs giving a brief history of the site. A walk along the towpath reveals many local tree varieties (some rare!), scenic views and many species of wildlife living along the Lackawaxen River. The newly built ADA accessible pavilion in the bed of the canal features a life sized exhibit of the interior of a canal boat cabin. The pavilion is available for rental. Call (570) 253-3240 for further information.

The park is open dawn to dusk.

The Delaware & Hudson Canal is a 108-mile-long civil engineering achievement, built over three years largely by hand. The D&H Canal was conceived by the Wurts brothers as a means to transport anthracite coal from their Pennsylvania mines to the Hudson River at Kingston, New York, from where it was shipped downriver to New York City. This 108-lock waterway operated from 1828 until 1898. After 70 years of operation it no longer was practical to transport the coal and other materials on the canal when compared to using the railroads. In 1898 the last coal boat made the trip from Honesdale to Kingston. After the canal was closed it was drained and the canal land was sold and split up.

Click here for park history page.

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Dedication and Grand Opening 

of Clinton H. Leet Boat Pavilion at D & H Canal Park at Lock 31

     A crowd of eighty history lovers celebrated the grand opening of the canal boat pavilion and watched the dedication of the replica canal boat on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at a special dinner and ceremony at Lock 31.  U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright spoke to the group and presented WCHS with a certificate honoring the work that has been done to complete this massive project. Wayne County Commissioner Jocelyn Cramer attended, bringing good wishes from the County Commissioners. The replica boat is now named “Clinton Leet” in memory of the man who first dreamed of creating a canal park at this site in 1995.  Trustee Tom Colbert has been the organizer for the various phases of planning and building and Tom received the certificate from Rep. Cartwright. Chef Alan Kehoe created a delicious meal which was enjoyed by those gathered.  Many volunteers helped to make the evening a memorable and special event.

     WCHS wishes to thank all those who donated money, time and talents for the last decade as this impressive replica boat was planned and finally finished.  The boat rests in the canal bed at D&H Canal Park at Lock 31; it is the same size as the canal boats that worked the canal in the late 1800s, about   95 feet long and 14 feet wide.  The Canal Park address is 179 Texas Palmyra Highway, Hawley, PA 18428.  The park is open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year, and an in-person visit will allow you to see the impressive structure.  You will be amazed!

CLICK HERE FOR PARK RULES / PHOTOGRAPHY RULES / PAVILLION RENTAL RULES AND FORM

Accessibility Notes

Canal Park has handicap-accessible parking and ADA approved blue stone side walks leading to the Daniel's Farmhouse. Foot bridge over Lock 31 and towpath are wheelchair accessible.

Pet Friendly Notes

Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. All animal waste must be bagged and disposed of.

Time Period Represented

1800s

Hours

Dawn to Dusk

Seasons Open

All Seasons

Admission

Free

Location

179 Texas Palmyra Hwy
Hawley, PA 18428

Park Site Map