About Us
The Canal Society of New Jersey
Welcome to the Canal Society
Our Mission
At the heart of our work is a passion for preserving the Morris Canal and the Delaware & Raritan Canal. These historic canals once served as essential arteries for commerce, connecting towns and industries across New Jersey in the 19th century. Through research, restoration, and public engagement, we aim to ensure that this significant chapter of New Jersey’s past is never forgotten.
Our Story
New Jersey’s canals were engineering marvels of their time. The Morris Canal spanned 102 miles, traversing an impressive 1,674-foot elevation change using a system of locks and inclined planes to transport coal, iron, and other goods from Pennsylvania to New York City. The Delaware & Raritan Canal, running 44 miles, linked the Delaware and Raritan Rivers, offering a vital trade route for anthracite coal and other commodities.
Recognizing the historical and cultural importance of these waterways, a group of history enthusiasts and preservationists came together in 1969 to form the Canal Society of New Jersey. Since then, we’ve been devoted to uncovering and sharing the stories of these canals, as well as ensuring their structures and artifacts remain intact for future generations.
What We Do
- Preservation and Restoration
We work to restore and maintain the physical remnants of the canals, including locks, bridges, towpaths, and inclined planes. These efforts ensure that visitors can experience these landmarks firsthand. - Education and Public Outreach
Our Canal Museum at historic Waterloo Village provides a deep dive into canal history through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and interactive programs. We host walking tours, lectures, and events designed to immerse visitors in the world of 19th-century canal life. - Historical Research and Publications
The Society conducts extensive research into the history of New Jersey’s canals and publishes findings in our newsletter, On the Level. We strive to keep the public informed about ongoing preservation efforts and the fascinating stories behind these waterways. - Community Engagement
Through programs like guided tours, school presentations, and special events, we aim to connect communities with their local history and foster an appreciation for New Jersey’s industrial heritage.
Meet Our Board
Officers:
- President: Joe Macasek
- Vice President: Tim Roth
- Recording Secretary: Carl Loutzenheiser
- Treasurer: Ken Roser
- Museum Director: Rich Richter
- Waterloo Volunteer Coordinator: Bobbie Egan
Trustees:
- Bruce Blondina
- Bob Bodenstein
- Janice Escobar
- Steve Lauf
- Jim Lee III
- Bill Meier
- John Prieto
- Rich Richter
- Bierce Riley
- Jeff Stanton
