Cornwall: The Americans are coming!!
On our way down to the St. Lawrence Seaway, we stop for lunch in Cornwall at the boat launch. As luck would have it there is an RV just like ours already parked here. We introduce ourselves to the very nice Quebecois couple and exchange info on our rigs and travel plans. It turns out they spent the night here, so we will be doing the same.
After lunch, we explore the lovely waterfront bike path on our way to view the Moses-Saunders power dam, the world’s longest international dam stretching from Cornwall to Massena NY.
As we bike along the pathway, we pass under the bridge to the US and cruise by the remnants of old locks now no longer used once the seaway was finished. At the St. Lawrence Power Development Center, we learn all about the construction of the hydroelectric dam and the entire towns that were relocated during its building. We also learn about other ways to generate power such as nuclear and other alternatives to coal.
On our second day in Cornwall, we head out to the Upper Village in South Dundas. A collection of over 40 buildings with costumed interpreters showing life in the 1860’s. it was fascinating to see the wool factory, sawmill, tinsmith, flour mill and cabinet maker using the tools of the day, as well as water power to produce such items.
We are fortunate that our visit here happened on the same weekend that a re-enactment of the Battle of Crysler’s farm in 1812 was taking place. We were treated to cannon fire and musket fire as the numerous costumed players fought each other on the field in front of us. A pleasant way to spend the late afternoon despite the heat.
On our last day in Cornwall we visit Morrisburg and see old brick homes. Half of Morrisburg was flooded with the dam and work on the St. Lawrence Seaway. We drive along the Long Sault Parkway, an 11 km road joining numerous islands in the Seaway where we spend a lazy afternoon in the shade.