The Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief, a full-scale replica of the vessel that first journeyed from Buffalo to New York City in 1825, docked in Schenectady on Tuesday as part of its Bicentennial Voyage.
The historic event commemorated the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal.
The Seneca Chief started its journey on Sept. 24, 2025. The journey includes stops at 28 ports statewide. At each port, the Seneca Chief serves as a floating museum, showcasing exhibits on the canal’s cultural, economic, and environmental impact.
Throughout the journey, Eastern White Pine trees, referred to as the Great Tree of Peace in Haudenosaunee culture, are planted at each port stop as a tribute to the contributions of Indigenous communities and a symbol of commitment to preserving the environment.
The voyage also features a ceremonial Gathering of the Waters, where water from each section of the canal is collected to water the final tree in New York City in October.
The Buffalo Maritime Center, with nearly 200 volunteers and students, constructed the Seneca Chief between October 2020 and June 2024.