2008 elderhostel Programs
The museum offers several Elderhostel programs. The museum coordinates and operates each program. Registration may be done on-line or via phone through Elderhostel.
The Grand Ol’ Erie: Its History, Boats and People
Capture the excitement of the Grand Canal, the Erie, that connected the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean for almost 100 years. Learn of the experiences of the pioneers opening the way across New York State for cargo and cultural exchanges, and the cities and industries that developed as a result. History comes alive at one of our country's only excavated and restored dry-docks. Experience a site tour, towpath walk and interaction with boat builders, currently constructing a life-size canal boat. Discover the Erie Canal's powerful impact on 19th century life through primary source materials and field trips. Enjoy a luncheon cruise on today's canal and experience a lock-through as a real "Canaler."
Additional program details are available at the Elderhostel web-site.
Itinerary
Snapshot program #16555RJ runs June 29th through July 2nd.
Independent arrivals at Canastota, NY (20 miles east of Syracuse) for 3 nights; 4 day "Snapshot" program ends after lunch on the 4th day. All land travel by motor coach.
Registration
Registration for program #16555RJ can be done through Elderhostel on-line or toll-free at 1-800-454-5768.
The Grand Ol' Erie: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow With Westward Cruise
Grand Ol' Erie programs include a 3-day canal boat cruise aboard the Emita II
Once derided as "Clinton's Ditch" (named for its mastermind, New York City mayor DeWitt Clinton), the Erie Canal had a major impact on the development of New York State and the United States in the 19th century. This magnificent engineering feat spawned a new culture, encouraging a young nation's expansion and prosperity. Trace the rise and fall of the remarkable Erie from the start of construction in 1817 through its legacy today. Learn of the emerging engineering technology driving the development of New York's canal system, and the construction of the boats that plied the Erie Canal. Interact with boat builders, currently constructing a life-size canal boat on site, and experience the history and people of the canal era through primary source materials and characters.
Visit other historic, canal-related site. Then (mid-week) embark on a leisurely 3-day study cruise eastward on the Emita II canal boat from Syracuse to Waterford.
Additional program details are available at the Elderhostel web-site.
Itinerary
Arrive Syracuse/Canastota NY, 4 nights; coach to vessel Emita II for day cruise-1 night at Herkimer; coach to vessel for day cruise-1 night at Amsterdam; coach to vessel for day cruise to Troy; coach back to Canastota for last night. Program ends with lunch on 8th day.
The Elderhostel web site provides additional details about the program itinerary:
- Program #15143RJ October 4-11 with Westward Cruise
Registration
Registration for either program can be done through Elderhostel on-line or toll-free at 1-800-454-5768.