Last updated: September 9, 2021
Place
C&O Canal Lock 71
Paul Graunke
Quick Facts
Amenities
1 listed
Scenic View/Photo Spot
Along the 184.5 miles of the canal are 74 lift locks. These locks were put into place to help boats overcome the 605-foot elevation change between Georgetown and Cumberland. The C&O Canal is like a staircase, canal boats traveled along the flat sections and used the locks to take a “step up or down” about eight feet. The locks typically had hand-operated miter gates that were simple and followed Leonardo da Vinci’s original 1485 design. Entering the lock was the most demanding part of canalling.
Lock 71 is the last of the upper 13 locks that was constructed as a “composite lock”, or a lock made with more than one material. It is made of kyanized (treated) wood and uncut stone. However, the use of wood created many problems. The wood lining in many of these locks were replaced by concrete from 1891–1924. Bolts that were used to hold the wooden sheathing are still in place.
Locks 69-71 are considered as the Oldtown Locks and were completed in late 1849 or early 1850. Adjacent to the lock is a white, two-and-a-half story lockhouse.
Lock 71 is the last of the upper 13 locks that was constructed as a “composite lock”, or a lock made with more than one material. It is made of kyanized (treated) wood and uncut stone. However, the use of wood created many problems. The wood lining in many of these locks were replaced by concrete from 1891–1924. Bolts that were used to hold the wooden sheathing are still in place.
Locks 69-71 are considered as the Oldtown Locks and were completed in late 1849 or early 1850. Adjacent to the lock is a white, two-and-a-half story lockhouse.