The Canal ride from Rochester to lockport was somewhat of a lark.  The Long Level as it was known, was a 63 mile trip uninterrupted by locks.  The approach to Lockport , after all, marked the next-to-last stop in a long, weary trip across the state.  The only challange that stood between a boat and the western terminus of the canal in Buffalo was the locks in Lockport.

If wasn't uncommon for boat Captains to quicken the pace to gain a margin of time in the event there were delays getting through the Locks.  The acent to the top of the Escarpment, up more than sixty feet in five gigantic steps, was a thrilling experience.  Even the Captain and the crews couldn't get blase about it.

Lockport itself was an interesting town.  Travelers could pass the time watching the busy locks in the event they were delayed.  Sightseeing and shopping were also very popular activities.  Lockport had a reputation for fine shops and hotel accomodations.  The most appealing aspect about Lockport was its frontier look, something visitors expected when traveling to the legendary West.