The Canal
District Boundaries: The canal runs from the Great Ship Lock in the East to Boshers Dam in the West.

The canal was originally constructed to bypass the James River rapids. George Washington served as honorary president of the James River Company, founded 1784. In 1835, the James River and Kanawha Canal Company was formed with the plan to connect the James River to the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Most of the locks and docks built through downtown Richmond were constructed in the 1840s. The power of the river was harnessed for grist mills, and Richmond became a major flour producer. The Richmond and Allegheny Railway Company bought the canal in 1880 and laid tracks on the towpath, ending the canal's use. Recently, a 1.25 mile walkway was created along the reconstructed canal. Canal boat tours originate at the Turning Basin site at 14th Street.

Guests get a unique view and tour of the canal district via the canal boat tours. La Difference, a high-end furniture store, is located in one of the tobacco warehouses seen behind the canal boat. The Canal area is used for many public festivities, concerts and after-hours events.
	11th and East Byrd Streets Tidewater Connection Lock, 1840 The former Reynolds Metals Company preserved this canal lock and bridge that were uncovered during excavation for a new building complex. Now it is part of the reconstructed canal walk. Sections run underneath the renamed ALCOA facility.

On the canal at Byrd Street Vepco Hydroelectric Plant, 1901 The former Vepco Hydroelectric Plant is built on the site of the old Ross mill, c1780. It is an excellent example of turn-of-the-century industrial architecture. The building is made of concrete and stucco-covered brick. Adjacent is the Vepco Steam Plant. The smoke stacks of both plants survive.
	500 Tredegar Street Tredegar Iron Works, 1837 The foundry was the largest in the pre-Civil War South and produced 90 percent of the cannons for the Confederacy. In 1841, Joseph Reid Anderson took over and expanded the operation. At one time Tredegar employed more than 2000 people. One of the surviving bulidings on the site currently houses the Richmond Civil War Visitors Center.

Historic Richmond Foundation - The William Byrd Branch of APVA Preservation Virginia