May 8 Nice Ride on the C&O

Damaged aqueduct

An early start today. The rain is no where in sight. The puddles have mostly disappeared. It is a bit cool and I have everything I brought on to try to keep warm.

Where major tributaries of the Potomac cross the canal, aqueducts like this one needed to be built to carry the canal and the towpath over the river. Smaller tributaries could be diverted to provide water for the canal.

Visitors center

 Williamsport, capital of the US? Really, did someone really consider that. If that had happened, it would probably have more than just a Red Roof Inn to stay at. And the Waffle House would really be packed in the morning.

Looking in a lock

 I didn't see any snakes this time, but they really like to live around these places. All those crevices must house a bunch of rodents and lizards.

Big Slackwater section

You know it must be spring

Lock and lockhouse

Some of the lockhouses along the canal are being restored and rented to visitors. It must a rather authentic experience since there is no running water, no electricity, no linens and you can't drive to them. And you can forget about Wi-Fi. It is all the rage I hear.

Historic Civil War river crossing

Here is where the Civil War could have ended. Lee was trapped, unable to cross the river. Lincoln pleaded with General Meade to attack and finish off the rebels but that did not happen. Meade was too slow to make an effective attack and Lee escaped across river The war continued.