My View: Why has Joseph Ellicott been left out of Buffalo's official Erie Canal story?

Overlooking Joseph Ellicott's Role in Buffalo's Erie Canal Story

The Holland Land Company, which owned a significant portion of Western New York, played a crucial role in shaping the region's history through its resident land agent, Joseph Ellicott.

Ellicott was instrumental in advocating for the construction of the Erie Canal, pushing for its inland route. His vision was to connect the canal to the Mohawk and Hudson rivers, ultimately linking it to New York City.

The Seneca Chief has left the Erie Canal proper as it turns for its final journey down the Mohawk and Hudson rivers to New York City.

To commemorate the Erie Canal bicentennial, Dennis Upton will be portraying Joseph Ellicott on Saturday, highlighting Ellicott's significant contribution to the canal's development.

Author's summary: Joseph Ellicott's role in Buffalo's Erie Canal story is often overlooked.

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The Buffalo News The Buffalo News — 2025-10-25

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