Canal Days held in Delphi

DELPHI, Ind. - The 4th of July has come and gone, but many area residents are still finding ways to celebrate our nation's history.

"All day long we have things going on. We have a lot of crafters here. We have food and buildings open," said Wabash and Erie Canal Inc. President Dan McCain.

Vistors had plenty of options for fun at the Canal Days Festival, but McCain said one attraction seemed to be most popular.

"The canal boat rides are probably the big hit," said McCain.

For a small price riders boarded a replica canal boat, and were given a tour and brief history of the area.

"This was the high point of the canal. Railroads hadn't arrived yet. The canal was a very flourishing mode of transportation," said McCain.

Along with boat rides hand made crafts helped take vistors back in time to the mid-1800's.

"All of the crafts are true to that time period...things that were not manufactured...things that were made with hand craftsmanship. The youth are fascinated with that they just love that," said park volunteer Brian Stirm.

Logansport resident Makenna Achey described her experience making rope.

"They held it and walked by it. Everytime it cranked the two strings went together," said Achey.

Lois Carmichael of Bloomington was fascinated with the old structure like the Reed Case House. She said it's important that children learn how their ancestors lived.

"They need to know what's in their past. How their parents and grandparents used to live. I really do. I think it's great," said Carmichael.

The park and all exhibits are run by a passionate group of volunteers who say the area has unique historical value.

"Nowhere else in Indiana can you get this experience. That's why I think people love to come here," said Stirm.