The Erie Canal was the first great canal in the United States and helped establish financial and commercial growth throughout New York. For thirty years the Tonawandas have celebrated the canal with music, parades, cruises, and more at the annual Canal Fest of the Tonawandas. The largest event held anywhere along the New York State canal system, the annual festival draws an estimated 200,000 people over eight days.
The North Tonawanda carrousel companies were one of the many beneficiaries of the canal, and what better time to examine its history and importance than at Canal Fest. Visit the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum for an afternoon of canal themed crafts, games, and activities as we kick-off the 2012 festival. Kids can make their own miniature packet boat, create a canal and towpath scene, and much more. Visitors of all ages will enjoy learning more about the canal’s history and engineering, touring the museum, and of course taking a spin on our historic 1916 carrousel.
There’s fun for the whole family, so mark your calendar to join us on Sunday, July 15, 2012 between 12:00pm and 4:00pm. The program is included in regular museum admission ($5 adults; $4 seniors; $2.50 students ages 2 – 12).
The Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum is housed in the historic Allan Herschell Company Factory building at 180 Thompson Street, North Tonawanda. For directions and further information about special events, programs or group tours, visit our web site: www.carrouselmuseum.org or contact us at 716-693-1885 or info@carrouselmuseum.org.
