If anyone really wants to know the history of the canal, stop in the visitor’s center on the Sandwich side east end of the canal. Run by the Corps of Engineers, I think. Lots of good info about the original canal and the second digging. Also about the first RR bridge and crossings. You will be pleasantly surprised. They also have the original patrol boat long retired inside for viewing.
Too damn bad they couldn't see fit to include the old tug from the borne side! Even though it has nothing to do with the history of the ditch.
As far as the modern bottom --- I have left my share of ell skin jigs and lead over the years. No wonder the stripers and fish coming from the diitch are poisonous.
