“A Mule Named Sal:” Music of the Erie Canal

“A Mule Named Sal:” Music of the Erie Canal

Folk music of new york state

Looking forward to helping Buffalo celebrate the bicentennial of the Erie Canal this summer with a series of programs at the Hanger Building in the Naval Park at Canalside!

Here’s a description of the program…

Dave Ruch has spent the last twenty-five years searching for Erie Canal music beyond the grade-school favorite “Low Bridge, Everybody Down,” and among other things, discovered that America’s favorite Erie Canal song was never sung on the 19th century canal!

In this all-ages lecture/concert, Ruch presents music from canal diggers, barge workers, immigrants, lake sailors, mule drivers, canal boat captains, and yes, professional songwriters who all contributed to the musical and cultural life surrounding the canal.

With banjo, bones, spoons, washboard, jaw harp, mandolin and more, Ruch presents a highly engaging program of stories, music, history and anecdotes about life on “Clinton’s Ditch,” and the importance of the Erie Canal to the growth of Buffalo, New York City and the nation.

Details

Date: July 10, 2025
Time: 2pm

Cost: Free and open to the public

Venue

Hanger Building at Naval Park, Buffalo NY

Get Directions >

Get Dave's News, Discounts, and More
Join Dave's Mailing List
Quick Contact

Have questions or looking for booking information? Call Dave at 716-998-2001, or send him a message below.

    *Required