From 1862 to 1913, the canal served as a water source to industries and towns.

Flowing between the main highways, the canal also serves as the chief artery of the city.

The canal served a mainly rural area, and traffic levels reflected this.

There is an urban legend that the canal served as a dumping ground for the Mafia.

However, the canal does not only serve sanitary purposes.

The canal served both to drain the swampy area around the yard and also to form a line of defense.

The canal also served a water wheel providing the furnace blast.

The canal served as a vital link during the industrial revolution.

The canal also served as a source of entertainment for local residents.

Ultimately, both the canal and the railroad served to develop Leesport's economy.