Leesport Lock House

The Leesport Lock House sits next to locks 36 and 37 of the Schuylkill Canal, serving as a worker's residence during the canal's operating years. The building preserves furnishings and household items that illustrate how residents lived while managing boat passage through the locks.

The house was constructed in 1834 by the Schuylkill Navigation Company to support lock operations. The canal served a vital role in moving coal to Philadelphia until railroads gradually took over the transportation business in the mid-1800s.

The house tells the story of lock keepers and their families who lived and worked along the canal. Visitors can see how their daily lives were connected to the rhythm of boat traffic and regional commerce.

The site is open to visitors during designated times in the warmer months, with access limited to select days. It is best to contact ahead of your visit to confirm current opening hours and any special programs.

Parts of the original lock walls remain visible at the site, offering a direct view of 19th-century canal engineering. These stone remnants show how the structure allowed boats to navigate changes in water level.

Location: Leesport

GPS coordinates: 40.44667,-75.96778

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:42