If the barges were going in different directions, then one would want to go up and the other would want to go down. It’s unlikely that they would be in the lock at the same time.

Scott Monje

From: A LISTSERV list for discussions pertaining to New York State history. [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Dick Williams
Sent: Tuesday, November 08, 2016 7:38 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [NYHIST-L] Original Erie Canal Lock Size

Chris,

     15 feet wide would accommodate a 7 feet boat going both ways...close but possible if needed.

Dick Williams

-----Original Message-----
From: Chris Andrle <[log in to unmask]>
To: NYHIST-L <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Tue, Nov 8, 2016 5:00 pm
Subject: [NYHIST-L] Original Erie Canal Lock Size

I've found a large number of references online which state that the
original size of the Erie Canal locks was 90 feet by 15 feet, built to
accommodate boats of 61 feet by 7 feet. I can't find a primary source to
confirm this. Is it true that boats on the original (pre-enlargement) canal
were limited to 61 by 7 feet, and if so, why, if the locks were 90 by 15
feet? Thanks.