The Lockport Hydraulic Company And The Construction of the North Tunnel
Erie Canal ~ Lockport, NY

In 1825, the Canal Commissioners of the State of New York advertised for bids
to lease the surplus waters of the State Canal System. The Hydraulic Race
Industrial Heritage Complex began in 1858.

In April of 1825, the New York State Legislature enacted Chapter 275 to provide
for leasing of the surplus waters from the Erie and Champlain Canals. The act
authorized the Canal Commissioners to advertise for bids. In Lockport, the surplus
Erie Canal waters were awarded to Richard Kennedy and Junius Hatch, (Kennedy/Hatch)
for the sum of $200 per year in perpetuity.

In 1838, New York began enlarging Clinton's Ditch. It was completed in Lockport in 1858.
Since the Erie Barge Canal was enlarged, there was an increased amount of water that
needed to be by-passed around the Locks.

The Lockport Hydraulic Company was incorporated in October 21, 1856.

In 1858, the New York state legislature enacted “An Act in relation to the Lockport
Hydraulic Company." It appears the company wanted assurances from the state regarding
its investment into properties which lie within blue line.

Upon the death of Richard Kennedy, the water rights at Lockport, known as the Kennedy
Hatch Lease, passed to Betsy L. Daniels on August 4, 1859.