Lockington Locks

c/o Site Operations Department
The Ohio Historical Society
1982 Velma Avenue
Columbus, OH 43211
614-297-2630 1-800-686-1535

"The Miami and Erie Canal locks at Lockington are the most extensive and spectacular series of structures which existed on the canal.

The lock walls remain today almost in their original condition, changed only by the elements. Therefore, they are worthy and adequate memorials to the once important transportation system and the men who built it-- of the colorful period when the canals flourished in Ohio. "

-- Anthony Wayne Parkway Board,
The Miami and Erie Canal Locks, Lockington, Ohio

These stairstep locks, among the best preserved in Ohio, were part of the Miami and Erie Canal System, which opened for navigation in 1845 and connected Cincinnati and the Ohio River to Toledo and Lake Erie. For several decades the canal provided Ohio with valuable transportation and waterpower. Railroads gradually rendered the canals obsolete.

The lockmaster's house, now a private residence, and a dry-dock basin for boat repair are still visible. Five locks step down to Loramie Creek where the abutments for the aqueduct remain.

LOCATION

Lockington Locks are in the village of Lockington, about 5 miles north of Piqua between I-75 and State Route 66, off of Hardin Road.