Canal Model Project
The idea of building a working model of the D&R Canal, a once thriving commercial transportation channel, grew out of an informative presentation by Linda Barth to the Lambertville Historical Society that occurred before the Covid pandemic. The purpose of this project is to provide the public an opportunity to learn about the canal’s history, operation, and contribution to the area’s industrial development.
The proposed project gained a foothold in the beginning of last year with the encouragement and support of the D&R Canal Watch and Holcombe Jimison Farmstead Museum.
The Overall Plan
The plan is to build an outdoor working model of the D&R canal at a proposed site within the 8 acre property of Holcombe Park in Lambertville (see image Holcombe Park below) and is being considered in conjunction with development of an overall plan for the site. Indications are promising and its likely to have a decision by the Spring 2026.
The Overall Plan (cont.)
The proposed layout will resemble the Y outline of the canal to represent the source of its water north of Lambertville, through Trenton to Bordentown and also from there to New Brunswick.
CONSTRUCTION COMPONENTS
The canal would be dug to a depth of 5″ with 4″ of above grade banks. It would be rubber lined and covered with bentonite clay and riprap. The water at the summit would be supplied by a buried cistern at the head level of the canal and circulated using a battery operated pump.
The model would include five working locks on the three routes (Bordentown to Trenton, Trenton to Lambertville, and Trenton to New Brunswick).
The locks would be made of wood, stone, and cement. Operation of the locks would also be battery operated, with sensors installed on both the boats and locks so that they open as the boat approaches and close once it passes through.
Bridges crossing the canal will also be constructed in period details and materials.
It is hoped that the model can be sited within a previously fenced area within Holcombe Park but if not, then a fence enclosing the canal model area will be installed to protect it when not in use.
The Boat
A prototype model of a hinge workboat has been constructed. Operated by remote control, it is shown here below entering a scale model of a lock.
Initially drawn by mule, but beginning in the 1840’s, steam tugs were used to pull the workboats too. Shown here is a replica of the tug ‘Relief that has been constructed. The plan is to build three tugs towing workboats, that can be operated simultaneously on different parts of the model canal. Potentially they could be driven remotely by a volunteer, “captain”, or a computerized control system linked with the operation of the locks.
ADDITIONAL PIECES TO COMPLETE THE PROJECT
It is planned to create a set of educational materials to coordinate with the canal’s operation, using a variety of already well-researched sources.
PROPOSED BUDGET & FUNDING
A rough budget to date indicates that we will need roughly $4,400 which does not yet include costs for the electronic control systems and other materials.
We hope to get donations from local Lambertville businesses that specialize in construction materials. And the D&R Canal Watch has generously offered to match whatever funds we raise up to $2,500.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
As you can imagine, a project like this requires many hands. If you’re interested in helping us bring this dream to fruition, please complete the form below.