Millersport, once a bustling canal town, played an integral role in the development of the Ohio & Erie Canal system. The canal, which began construction in 1825 and was completed in 1832, was a vital water route that connected Lake Erie to the Ohio River, facilitating trade and transportation across the state. Millersport emerged as a strategic point along the canal due to its location just north of the Licking Summit (now Buckeye Lake) and its proximity to the Deep Cut.

In the early 1830s, the canal was routed through Millersport to connect Licking Reservoir (Buckeye Lake) to the rest of the canal system. Mathias Miller, who settled in the region, recognized the opportunity for growth and established a port at the side of the canal, helping to foster the town’s development. This strategic location allowed goods from the surrounding agricultural areas to be transported easily via the canal to larger markets in Cleveland, Portsmouth, and beyond.

The canal town quickly flourished as the Ohio & Erie Canal expanded, and the village became an important stop for canal boats traveling between Cleveland and Portsmouth. At its peak, over 3,000 canal boats utilized this section of the waterway. The canal brought prosperity to Millersport and the surrounding area, providing a vital economic connection to Ohio’s growing cities.

However, the canal’s success was short-lived due to the rise of the railroad system in the mid-19th century, which offered a faster, more efficient form of transportation. The canal, which had once been the lifeblood of Millersport and the surrounding communities, was eventually abandoned after a major flood in 1914 further damaged parts of the waterway.

The Canal Today: A Scenic Resource

Although the Ohio & Erie Canal is no longer used for commercial transport, Millersport Canal continues to serve the community in a more recreational capacity. Today, sections of the canal, particularly around Buckeye Lake and Millersport, have been preserved as part of the Canal Heritage Trail. Visitors can explore the historic canal route by kayaking, walking, or biking, offering a peaceful way to connect with Ohio’s canal past.

Additionally, the canal waters are a part of the larger Buckeye Lake system, which remains a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water sports. The canal’s natural beauty, combined with its rich history, makes it a prime location for outdoor activities and a peaceful retreat for both residents and tourists.

Key Features of Millersport Canal:

-Deep Cut: The Deep Cut, a 32-foot-deep section of the canal, runs through Millersport and is a testament to Ohio’s canal-building engineering. Visitors can see this remarkable feature today at Millersport Cemetery and along Deep Cut Road.

-Millersport Cemetery: The resting place for many of the laborers who built the canal, including over 100 Irish immigrants who tragically lost their lives during construction.

-Millersport Canal Port: The site of the original canal wharf, where canal boats once unloaded goods and passengers, is now a historic marker for visitors to explore.

-Recreational Use: Parts of the canal are now incorporated into the Canal Heritage Trail, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and biking while taking in the scenic views of Buckeye Lake and its surrounding landscapes.

Today, Millersport stands as a living testament to Ohio’s rich canal history. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and legacy of the waterway through recreational activities, historical sites, and the enduring spirit of the community that flourished from the canal trade.