The Blackstone Canal is an amazing place. At one time, it was an engineering marvel. A watery superhighway connecting Worcester, MA to Providence, RI (and Narragansett Bay). This was the 19th Century method of moving cargo and people. 45 miles in length, 35 feet in width, 49 locks, and a 451-foot rise between endpoints. It was amazing and sparked immense economic growth for the region.

The Blackstone Canal system was also problematic. Ice in the winter would stall operation (as an example). Opened in 1828, it closed in 1848 and the railroad took over.

In 1971, the region became a part of the National Register of Historic Places (in stages). Here we see the remnants of the preserved canal as nature takes back its territory. The result is quite striking and beautiful in filtering light and reflective waters. 

All photos featured were taken during a hike in Lincoln, RI in August 2020. 

Forested Canal

Forested CanalTrees reclaimed the banks of the historic Blackstone Canal. Light filters through the standing and fallen trees yielding spectacular reflections.

Reflected And Filtered

Reflected And FilteredTrees reclaimed the banks of the historic Blackstone Canal. Light filters through the standing and fallen trees yielding spectacular reflections.

Trees Fallen In Canal

Trees Fallen In CanalTrees reclaimed the banks of the historic Blackstone Canal. Light filters through the standing and fallen trees yielding spectacular reflections.

Photos from our Made From RI Gallery portfolio display "Landscape" (all photos are available as prints, canvas wraps, framed works, cards, or many other formats). See more here: https://www.madefromrigallery.com/p39755272
 

© Keith R Wahl, Made From RI/Made From RI Gallery, 2020. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Keith R Wahl and Made From RI/Made From RI Gallery with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.