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The canal provided a method of transportation of natural resources to urban areas. During the 1800s
the canal was used to ship coal and other resources to New York, Philadelphia, and the eastern U.S. However, once railroads
were built, the canals were no longer needed for this purpose.
How were the boats powered on the Delaware Canal during the 19th century?
Young boys led a team of mules in pulling the boats, which were filled with 80 to 90 tons of coal! The
boys were usually around the age of twelve years, and they worked from sunrise until around 10 p.m. After they finished, the
mules had to be fed and brushed so that they were ready for the next day of hard work.
What is a mule?
A mule is an offspring of a male donkey and female horse.
For More Information About the History of the Canal and Other Stuff Click Here!!
For More Pictures of the Delaware Canal Click Here!!
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