Myron Holley facts for kids
Myron Holley (born April 29, 1779 – died March 4, 1841) was an American politician. He played a very important role in building the famous Erie Canal. This huge canal helped connect New York City to the Great Lakes.
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Myron Holley: Canal Builder
Early Life and Education
Myron Holley was born in Salisbury, Connecticut. His parents were Luther and Sarah Holley. He went to Williams College and graduated in 1799.
Building the Erie Canal
Holley became a member of the New York State Assembly. This is like a state government group that makes laws. He represented Ontario County. He worked closely with DeWitt Clinton, who was the governor at the time. Together, they convinced the state government to pay for the Erie Canal.
The Erie Canal was a massive project. It was a waterway built across New York State. It connected the Hudson River (and New York City) to Lake Erie and the Great Lakes. This made it much easier and cheaper to transport goods.
In 1816, Myron Holley was chosen as one of the Erie Canal Commissioners. These commissioners were in charge of making sure the canal was built correctly. Holley also became the Treasurer for the Canal Commission. This meant he managed the money for the project. He spent eight years living with the workers and watching the construction up close.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1822, Holley built a large building called the Old Stone Warehouse in Rochester, New York. Later, there was an issue with the canal funds. Holley resigned from his position. He used his own property to help cover the missing money.
Myron Holley passed away in Rochester, New York. He was buried in Mount Hope Cemetery. His monument there was paid for by members of the Liberty Party. This was a political group that Holley helped to start.
Myron Holley had several brothers. These included Orville L. Holley, Horace Holley, and John Milton Holley. The village of Holley, New York was named after him to honor his work.
