US History: Erie Canal for Kids

How long was the original Erie Canal?

• 363 miles

• 525 miles

• 200 miles

• 100 miles

When did construction of the Erie Canal begin?

• July 4, 1817

• January 1, 1800

• December 25, 1820

• October 26, 1825

What was the nickname given to the Erie Canal?

• Albany's Way

• Buffalo's Route

• Hudson's Path

• Clinton's Ditch

Who was the mayor of New York that fought to get the canal built?

• Andrew Carnegie

• Thomas Edison

• DeWitt Clinton

• Henry Ford

What was the main purpose of the Erie Canal?

• To transport goods and people

• To provide drinking water

• To serve as a tourist attraction

• To generate electricity

What was the depth of the original Erie Canal?

• 20 feet

• 2 feet

• 4 feet

• 10 feet

What year was the peak traffic year for the canal?

• 1918

• 1855

• 1825

• 1900

What were the small boats called that traveled the Erie Canal?

• Sailboats

• Fishing boats

• Packet boats

• Cargo ships

What did drivers yell to warn passengers about low bridges?

• Watch out!

• Duck!

• Low bridge!

• Bridge!

What was the cost to build the Erie Canal?

• $5 million

• $10 million

• $1 million

• $7 million