Roanoke Canal facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Roanoke Canal
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 Location in North Carolina
Location in the United States
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| Location | Roanoke Rapids Lake SE to Weldon, near Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina |
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| Area | 140 acres (57 ha) |
| Built | 1819-1823, 1892, c. 1904 |
| Architect | Fulton, Hamilton |
| NRHP reference No. | 76001328 |
| Added to NRHP | October 8, 1976 |
The Roanoke Canal is an old waterway near Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. It is located in Halifax County, North Carolina. This canal was a big part of the Roanoke Navigation System. It helped boats travel from Roanoke Rapids Lake to the Roanoke River at Weldon, North Carolina. The canal stretches about seven miles.
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Why Was the Roanoke Canal Built?
The Roanoke Canal was built to help move goods. People wanted to connect the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean. This would make it easier to transport things like crops and lumber. The canal was a key part of this large transportation plan.
Who Helped Build the Canal?
Work on the canal started a long time ago. The earliest parts were built between 1819 and 1823. A smart engineer named Hamilton Fulton helped lead the construction. He made sure the canal was built correctly.
What Can You See at the Canal Today?
Even though the canal is old, you can still see parts of it. These parts show how people built and used the canal. They are like clues from the past.
The Aqueduct
One important structure is the aqueduct. It was built between 1821 and 1823. An aqueduct is like a bridge that carries water. This one helped the canal cross over other land or waterways.
The Mill and Powerhouse
You can also see an old brick mill. It was built in 1892. Close by is a powerhouse, built around 1904. These buildings show how the canal was used for industry. They likely helped process goods or create power.
The Lift Locks
The canal also has "middle or lift locks." Locks are special sections of a canal. They help boats move up or down between different water levels. This was very important for boats traveling along the Roanoke Canal.
A Special Place in History
The Roanoke Canal is a very important historical site. Because of its history, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. This means it is a place worth protecting and remembering.
