From Forgotten Wonder to Destination Wonder
Our Founders
Saturday, August 23, 2:00 PM
Samuel Center for Canal History
38 Rochester Street, Port Byron, NY
Free Admission – Donations Strongly Encouraged
A Special Erie Canal Presentation
The Canal Society of New York is honored to welcome storyteller Steven Panayioto (pen name Nikos Steves) all the way from Atlanta for this special program. Steven is generously offering his presentation at no cost – though donations will be gratefully accepted to support the Samuel Center and future programming.
This 45-minute presentation begins with a captivating documentary on the origins of the Erie Canal, filmed nearly 20 years ago and recently updated to highlight new uses and evolving roles of this remarkable waterway. Steven will also share personal experiences from behind the camera.
The film features remarkable c. 1995 interviews with Professor Grasso and Peter Wiles Sr. These extraordinary moments, capturing two unforgettable voices in canal history, are deeply moving, many have found themselves shedding a tear while watching.
After the screening, Steven hopes to share additional cameo appearances from the archives, offering even more glimpses into the people who have shaped and celebrated the Erie Canal.
“Years ago, attention to the Erie Canal System went on hiatus. But visionaries would have none of it and made citizens aware of her majesty. Ever since, entrepreneurs and volunteers have used imagination and bold strokes to expand the uses of this twenty-first century waterway for the citizens of today and beyond.”