In celebration of the Bicentennial of the completion of the Erie Canal in 1825, “Clinton’s Ditch: The Story of Building of the Erie Canal,” an original historical drama was performed under the direction of Joni Lincoln chronicling America’s grandest and influential man-made waterway. The Old Mentz Heritage Center sponsored the event that held five performances at the Canal Society of New York State’s Samuel Center for Canal History in Port Byron in June 2025.

The play narrated the canal’s creation from its original vision to its monumental completion in 1825 under the leadership of New York State Governor Dewitt Clinton. It commemorated the Erie Canal’s profound impact across New York State and engaged audiences in celebrating our shared heritage.