The Augusta Canal—a meaningful tour exploring how
things work with lovely scenery to behold. The Industrial
Revolution had a massive impact on the American South,
especially so in Augusta. The canal was built in 1845 as
a source of power. In 1847, the first factories were built to
use the water power.
The Augusta Canal National Heritage Area is the hub for
activities. In addition to demonstrating the workings of
the Enterprise Mill, the experience also offers rides on the
Augusta Canal in a replica Petersburg Boat. These simple
barges were navigated along the canal to bring cotton to the mill for processing. The tour
combines history with sightseeing in a lovely natural experience. Wildlife abounds along
the canal, even today. The ACNHA is a kid-friendly experience, rich in information that
everyone will enjoy. It’s a boating tour, combined with a glimpse into the interior of a 19th century factory.
Looking for something to show visiting friends? Check out the new Authentic Augusta
Experience, Canal to Cloth: A Day at the Mill. Immerse yourself in a guided tour with 1880s
textile workers, ride along the canal with a Petersburg boatman, and take a behind-thescenes tour of the Enterprise Mill hydropower plant.