The Savannah and Ogeechee did not rival other canals in length or in amount of goods transported, it was an important route for the coastal plantations to get their crops to market. Rice, corn, naval stores, and lumber were all common products shipped along the Savannah and Ogeechee Canal. Most planters selected this canal for an economic reason: They could get their goods to market more quickly. Also, the canal was somewhat safer than trying to navigate the coastal islands and Savannah River. The canal was completed in 1831 after seven years of work. The canal stretches for 16 miles, connecting the Ogeecheee River and Savannah River. In 1836 the original company went bankrupt, but a second company took over, widening the canal and attempting to compete with the railroads. During the next 20 years the canal was a success.
Along the canal path there are many opportunities to see local plant and animal life. Plants range from cypress trees, to palmettos, to spider lillies, just to name a few. Some animal life we saw were five line skinks, water snakes, various fish, and ducks. The walking trail provides visitors the chance to view the wildlife.
Click the picture below to see more photos at the Ogeechee Canal.
