Newichawannock Canal

The Newichawannock Canal is an artificial waterway that connects Great East Lake to Horn Pond, stretching roughly half a mile through the landscape. Stone walls form the structure, standing about 13 feet wide and 16 feet deep throughout its length.

This waterway was constructed in 1868 by engineer Hiram Paul to serve the Great Falls Manufacturing Company's operations. The project enabled water power to reach textile mills operating at a distance downstream.

The canal reveals how communities once depended on waterways to power their industries and shape their economy. Today visitors can observe the engineering choices of an earlier era reflected in the structure itself.

The southern section of the waterway carries flowing water and can be accessed through the pond, though the northern portion shows visible wear over time. Visitors will notice that different sections are in varying conditions.

The canal crosses the border between Maine and New Hampshire, making it one of the rare National Register sites that spans two states. This location reflects an unusual partnership between communities on opposite sides of a state line.

Location: Wakefield

GPS coordinates: 43.56940,-70.97110

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:21