Permanent Exhibits
Frank B. Thomson Line Boat
A full size replica of an Erie Canal line boat. Crews quarters, cargo and passenger areas are reproduced. Surround sound displays describe life on the Erie Canal.
Penny Postcard Arcade
On display are some of the more interesting postcards in the Museum's large collection. Featured are 19th and early 20th century scenes of Syracuse and the Erie Canal as well as some of the personal messages written on the backs of the cards.
Weighmaster’s Office
An Erie Canal weighmaster calculated the tolls that a boat captain paid. The Syracuse Weighlock Building weighmaster's office was restored in 1985. The office desk is an authentic mid-1800's desk used in the Rochester Weighlock office.
Computer Kiosk
Visitors learn about Erie Canal history by using a computer program designed for fun and learning. Categories include Canal construction, life on the Erie Canal, weighlock buildings, canal boats and more. Snappy graphics, canal music and exciting narration bring Erie Canal history to life.
Uniquely Syracuse Room
This room honors local business people, inventors and innovators. Displays discuss Stickley furniture, candlemaking, Syracuse China, brewing, lacrosse and more. Musician and folk artist Elizabeth "Libba" Cotten is honored with a display celebrating her musical talents and legacy.
The Tavern
Reproduction of a mid-1800's Canalside tavern where Erie Canal travelers would stop for food, drink and gossip. At one time, 32 different beers were brewed in Syracuse, making the city the brewery capital of New York.
Pottery Display
Onondaga Pottery, today's Syracuse China, used the Erie Canal to ship finished goods to market. The display recreates a corner of the factory where the pottery was painted.
General Store
Visitors see a multitude of items that were sold in a recreated 1800's dry goods store. Included is a post office area stocked with postcards from the early 1900's.
Stonecutters Shed
Stone from Central New York was used to build the Erie Canal locks and aqueducts. Display features slide presentation of canal sites and Syracuse buildings.
Nineteenth Century Theater Stage
Syracuse of the nineteenth century had many theaters in the downtown area. This display recreates the staging of the times.
