7 Mechanic St., Jordan, NY 13080 (315) 689-7350
The Flower Park - Marker #3
The Flower Park
43.06579773549215, -76.47341509961866
The area that was once traversed by the Erie Canal has been repurposed and now exists as the Jordan Flower Park. This transformation occurred approximately a decade after the cessation of the Erie Canal in 1918.
Written by Joshua Sorts with assistance from Elaine Peters
Flower Park - Local Tourist Attraction
Jordan is a unique example among a small number of villages that have taken an innovative approach to their local development. Recognizing the potential of their former Canalway, they made the strategic decision to convert it into a tourist attraction, specifically, a flower park. This transformation has not only breathed new life into the Canalway but also turned it into a vibrant and colorful destination that attracts visitors from near and far.
The Flower Park, as it is known today, serves as a beacon of tourism, drawing crowds with its stunning floral displays and serene environment. However, its establishment in the early 1930s was driven by more than just the desire to create a tourist attraction. It was a period when the nation was grappling with the aftermath of the Great Depression, and there was a pressing need to create job opportunities for the masses. The creation of the Flower Park served this need effectively. It was a project that not only repurposed the unused canal but also provided much-needed employment to people. This initiative was part of the recovery efforts spearheaded by the Works Progress Administration; a key agency established in the early 1930s. The agency played a crucial role in helping the nation recover from the economic downturn by providing jobs to the unemployed.
Flower Park - Historical Perspective
The image presents a historical perspective of the original Erie Canal, which once meandered through North Main Street. The vantage point of the photograph is from a bridge that formerly existed slightly to your right. This bridge, like many others of its time, was designed to allow boats to navigate beneath it, facilitating seamless travel along the canal. However, with the closure of the Canal in 1918, significant changes were made to the landscape. The underside of the bridge was filled, paving the way for the construction of a conventional road. This transformation marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in the region’s history. Today, the view captured in the photograph has dramatically changed. Where once waterways and boats dominated the scene, now blooms a vibrant flower park. This park stands where the old canal once flowed. It serves as a reminder of the area’s rich history, while also showcasing its ability to adapt and evolve over time. It’s a perfect blend of past and present, nature and culture, serving as a bridge between the bygone era of the Erie Canal and the present-day community.
Visit Other Historical Markers
The Masonic Building - #2
The Flower Park - #3
Locktender's House - #5
Tom's Automotive, Inc. - #9
The Clinton Hotel - #13