How were the Erie Canal locks built and operated?

The Erie Canal required 83 locks to navigate more than 150 meters (500 feet) of elevation change across New York state. These locks were constructed of stone and designed for efficiency, with each lock requiring only one person for its operation.1

A notable engineering challenge occurred at the Niagara Escarpment, where canal engineer Nathan B. Roberts designed a series of 10 locks—arranged as five levels with two locks side-by-side—to lift boats over the 23-meter (75-foot) rock ridge. The construction of these and other locks was greatly aided by the discovery of a local hydraulic cement that could harden underwater, which eliminated the need for expensive imported materials.1

While specific operational mechanics for the original 1825 locks are noted for their simplicity, general lock operation typically involves equalizing water levels between the lock chamber and the adjacent canal sections to allow gates to open and vessels to pass through. Over time, the canal underwent enlargements, and lock dimensions were increased to accommodate larger vessels.21