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Interpreting the Evidence

Wallpaper with Erie Canal Scene, 1825

  • Documents in this Activity:
  • Historical Eras:

    Expansion and Reform (1801 - 1861)

  • Thinking Skill:

    Historical Analysis & Interpretation

  • Grade Level:

    Lower Elementary
    Upper Elementary
    Middle School
    High School
    College University

  • Topics:

    Community
    Environment
    Erie Canal
    Transportation

  • Primary Source Types:

    Artifact

  • Regions:

    New York State

  • Creator:

    NYS Archives Partnership Trust Education Team

  1. Load Wallpaper with Erie Canal Scene, 1825 in Main Image Viewer

Suggested Teaching Instructions

Document Description
This picture of the Erie Canal aqueduct at Rochester, over the Genesee River, is printed on wallpaper, an indication that people wanted a souvenir of the Canal's accomplishments in their homes, 1825.
The Canal went east and west across New York State, although the Genesee River runs south to north, so an aqueduct was built to carry the Canal across the river.
The aqueduct made it possible for the canal water to be separate from the river water. The Canal, with its water and boats, traveled above the river in the aqueduct. This picture of the Rochester aqueduct is printed on wallpaper, an indication that people wanted a souvenir (a reminder) of the Canal's accomplishments in their homes.