This week, the Erie Canal will be the center focus of the World Canals Conference, taking place in Buffalo through Thursday. It’s a special moment for WNY’s inland waterway, which 200 years ago changed trade and travel forever.
“So, they’re [canals are] there to be preserved, cherished, and you know, make sure that they’re the gift that keeps on giving,” said John Paterson.
Paterson and his colleague Richard Millar traveled from Scotland to represent Scottish Canals. On Sunday, the conference kicked off at Canalside, where historical re-enactors performed, folk music played, and people lined up eagerly to see historic boats and interactive exhibits. BTPM NPR caught Paterson and Millar as they checked out the opening festivities…