Wabash and Erie Canal Walk/Talk

The Wabash and Erie Canal is a historic waterway that connected Toledo, OH to Evansville, IN. Canal constructions began in 1832, reaching Evansville in 1853. At the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge there are places where the canal can still be recognized to this day. On April 6, Preston Richardt, a member of the Friends of the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Canal Society of Indiana board member, will present an interesting and informative program focusing on the section of the canal as it approaches the town of Dongola from the Patoka River aqueduct.

As they walk along, participants will learn the history of the canal including why it was built and why it was abandoned. They will see a section of the canal as it is today, and walk through and understand a canal town. Preston will also help participants locate other sections of the canal on the Refuge property and beyond.

The program will begin at 9:00 AM (Central Time) at the McCandless Tract on the Refuge. The walk, approximately 1/2 mile to one mile in length, is expected to last one to 1.5 hours. It will pass through wooded areas and a power line right-of-way that has briars and other undergrowth on it. Participants should dress appropriately for weather and hiking conditions. Insect repellent is recommended. Lowland areas might be flooded.

From the Oakland City junction of SR 57/SR 64, drive north on 57. Turn left onto CR 150 N, which is the last road before the Patoka River bridge. The Dongola Kiosk is on the right side of the road.

From Petersburg, drive south on SR 57, crossing the Patoka River, entering Gibson County. Turn right onto CR 150 N, the first road after crossing the Patoka River bridge. The Dongola Kiosk is on the right side of the road.