Canal History + Stories
Learn about our legacy and personal impact
Canal History
The workers who built the High Line Canal more than a century ago didn’t envision that people would be using their ambitious irrigation project as a recreational outlet in the midst of a busy urban area. In fact, to the builders of the 71-mile High Line, the Canal was solely a commercial idea to bring South Platte River water to settlers and farmers following a gold rush in 1859 near the confluence of the South Platte and Cherry Creek.
The Canal Through The Years
Canal Stories
The High Line Canal is embedded in the memory of so many who were raised in the Denver Metro area. From using the Canal to irrigate land to splashing around in the water on hot days. This treasured asset can be celebrated with the stories of those who remember it fondly.
We’re connecting the future preservation of the Canal with its past
The 71-mile High Line Canal is renowned for its rare combination of sylvan-urban charm. What remains untold, however, are the myriad of stories from the Canal’s past as experienced by the many people who have enjoyed it over the past century. Do you have a special story to tell or a fond memory on the Canal to share?
The Conservancy, along with local media firm Circuit Media, is recording stories to preserve the mosaic of histories and experiences on the High Line Canal – see below to find out how you can help.
Share your story
Written Form
By sharing your story, you are consenting to your story being published and allowing someone from the project team to contact you if further information is required.
