People were lining the Erie Canal today to get a close up view of the giant fermentation tanks that are being transported by barge from Albany to the Genesee Brewery in Rochester.
The barges contain 20-foot by 60-foot tanks, which will play a key part in the Genesee Brewery's $49 million expansion project.
In the village of Pittsford, "Judy" said it was interesting to see the canal being used for its original purpose.
"Oh it's fascinating. I've been tracking it from Macedon and Palmyra. I went up to the locks yesterday. It was fun," she said.
For Chris Schultheis, it was an educational experience.
"I studied American history, specifically New York State history at Brockport in College, and actually now work for a brewery. So, actually seeing these giant tanks come through is pretty fascinating on both sides," he said.
Down the canal at Lock 33 in Henrietta, dozens of people stood in a light rain to see the barge.
Peggy Ferge of Rochester says she took advantage of rare opportunity.
"It's a once in a lifetime thing. You see grandparents here with their grandkids. You get a little history of the canal. It's, you know, educational," she said.
Bill Fenske of Rochester says there's a good reason there was such a good turnout to see the barge.
"Probably because it hasn't been used like this in a long time, and they most likely are beer fans," he said.
The giant beer tanks will be offloaded in Gates and then shipped by truck to the brewery.
Here’s video from Pittsford by WXXI’s Martin Kaufman:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SOE2Nve_2Pw">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SOE2Nve_2Pw