Seneca Locks

Geneva Gazette
Wednesday, Aug. 30, 1815

COMMUNICATION
Seneca Locks.

We have the satisfaction to state, that on the 23rd inst. the first Boat (about 70 feet in length) went through the two upper locks on the Seneca Falls, loaded with upwards of one hundred persons. In presence of a great number of spectators, collected from different parts of the country.

The boat having entered the Guard Lock, went through the new Canal, nearly 3-4ths of a mile in length, and descended the two Locks in 25 minutes; then turned about in the Seneca river and re-ascended the Locks, in 9 minutes - all which no doubt will be accomplished hereafter in much less time, considering that every thing was new, and managed by hands unacquainted with Lock navigation concerns, the architect, Mr. Marshal Lewis, excepted, whose faithful exertions deserve the highest praise.

The workmanship of these Locks, as it respects solidity and neatness, is probably not exceeded by any heretofore construction. The Locks, Canals and Dams, as far down as Col. Mynderse's old mills, will no doubt be completed before winter, and the remainder, near and below the Col's. new mills, will in all probability pass inspection by the middle of next season. The completion of these Locks will be important - not only as it respects the advantages which this village will derive from it, but in particularly, the convenience of transportation for the immense country west of this.