Augusta Canal

The Augusta Canal is a waterway extending 13 miles through the city, fed by the Savannah River across three distinct elevation levels. The system is designed to move water through different heights, creating the power needed for mills and other facilities along its course.

Henry Cumming founded the canal in 1845, hiring railroad engineer John Edgar Thomson to survey the route and create detailed plans for construction. This beginning launched the city's industrial transformation through water-powered production.

The old textile mills flanking the waterway now serve as offices, homes, and learning centers that tell the story of the region's manufacturing past. People gather in these repurposed buildings for work and leisure, keeping the site's industrial roots alive in daily use.

The canal is open to visitors from Tuesday through Saturday, with walking paths alongside the water and guided boat tours available from the Enterprise Mill. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the various walking routes at your own pace.

This waterway remains the only functioning industrial canal in the United States that has continuously served its original purpose of power generation and water supply since its creation. This dual function makes it a rare example of continuity in American industrial infrastructure.

Location: Augusta

Location: Columbia County

Website: http://augustacanal.com

GPS coordinates: 33.50222,-81.99917

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:53