Captain’s Log

Journal entries from our Long Haul on the Bicentennial Voyage of the Erie Canal Boat, Seneca Chief

 

Week Five – Kingston to New York City

October 21–25

Day 26 – Kingston, Day 1
Hudson River Maritime Museum – October 21
What a difference a day makes! Sunshine and 70 degrees greeted us in Kingston — a welcome change after Hudson’s stormy send-off. Our tent sat beside the NYS Distilling setup, joined by Union Grove Distilling from Arkville and Liquid Fables canned cocktails from Beacon. With the tour line passing right by our row of tents, the day was busy and full of friendly faces. Afterward, the Hudson River Cruises team treated the crew to a comforting dinner of mac and cheese and shepherd’s pie — the perfect reward for a bustling day on the docks.

Day 27 – Kingston, Day 2
Hudson River Maritime Museum – October 22
A bit chillier but still bright, Kingston’s second day brought school groups and curious visitors to the waterfront. Early in the day, local students proudly displayed models of the canal, locks, and boats they’d built — proof that the next generation is already inspired by the Erie Canal’s legacy. As the afternoon waned, folks stocked up on beer to take home. That evening, the crew gathered at Tom and Sue’s Airbnb, where a homemade feast of manicotti, vegetable lasagna, and meatballs turned the night into something that felt like a holiday family dinner — full of laughter, warmth, and gratitude.

Day 28 – Cornwall-on-Hudson
Cornwall Yacht Club – October 23
The air was crisp but dry as the Seneca Chief arrived to a hearty welcome from the Cornwall Yacht Club. Despite the chill, the crowd was lively, and Long Haul was nearly gone before the day’s end. The Yacht Club hosted a pasta dinner with massive homemade meatballs, fueling everyone for the journey’s final miles. Fun fact — the club is currently doubling as a TV set for the American remake of Doc Martin, complete with a small-town sheriff’s office facade. Later, I found time to hike through the fall foliage and unwind at Irish Eyes Pub, whose cozy charm reminded me of home in South Buffalo.

 

Day 29 – Ossining
Shattemuc Yacht Club – October 24
A brisk fall breeze carried a mix of excitement and nostalgia — this was the final stop for Big Ditch on the voyage. Our tent stood across from the Shattemuc Yacht Club, joined by our friends from Buffalo Distilling. Emotions ran high as I poured the last of the Long Haul, fittingly into the hands of fellow Bills fans. By day’s end, even the Hayburner was gone — a bittersweet symbol of just how far we’d come. We closed out the night at The Boathouse Bar, sharing our favorite memories over a few pints, reluctant to let the evening — or the adventure — end.

Day 30 – New York City
Though Big Ditch couldn’t sell beer on the dock in the city, there was no way I was missing the grand finale. I hopped aboard the Metro-North train and, to my delight, spotted the Seneca Chief gliding down the Hudson en route to Manhattan. I spent a few hours exploring the city before heading to Pier 26, just as the boat arrived. Watching her dock in New York Harbor was both thrilling and emotional — the culmination of a journey that spanned hundreds of miles, dozens of ports, and countless memories. While I wished I could stay for the official bicentennial celebration on October 26, my heart told me it was time to go home. This voyage has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life — proof that hard work, community, and a little beer can carry you farther than you ever imagined.

Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who followed along on our journey down the Erie Canal — from Buffalo to New York City and every port in between. 🚤🍺 The Seneca Chief’s voyage celebrated not just 200 years of canal history, but the communities, friends, and fans who keep its spirit alive today. Here’s to everyone who raised a glass along the way — and to all the adventures still ahead.

Here’s to the next round, and the next town.

Reflections

Having travelled across New York State, I hope this trip has shown people that New York is so much more than its famous city. At the same time, having traversed most of the state, I am so proud to be from Buffalo.

The best part of this trip has been the friends and connections I have made along the way. A big part of the BMC’s mission was community, and I think we succeeded in bringing people together.

Acknowledgements

I’d like to thank my boyfriend and son for holding down the fort in South Buffalo amidst late nights at work and musical practice. I’d also like to thank my parents for their help back home during my absence. They have all been so supportive. Thank you!

I would like to thank my team of Matt, Drew, and Mike, who all worked together to make this happen. And the brewers for creating a delicious and historical beer! 

Lastly, I would like to thank the BMC for making this all happen and exposing so many people to history. Thank you for having me be a part of your journey. 

Kait

Captain’s Log

Journal entries from our Long Haul on the Bicentennial Voyage of the Erie Canal Boat, Seneca Chief

Week Four – Schenectady to Hudson

October 14–20

Day 19 – Schenectady
The River House – October 14
The crisp, overcast day in Schenectady brought brass band fanfare and the cheerful energy of a city proud of its canal heritage. The welcome ceremony opened with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by three talented high school singers, setting the tone for a memorable day. Marketing Director Mike joined in, bringing both more beer and more buzz to the event. After a long afternoon of steady pours and conversation, we ended the day steps away at Druthers Brewery. Their Puck Drop Pilsner hit the spot as the Seneca Chief crew gathered for food, laughter, and stories to close out another successful stop.

 

Day 20 – Waterford, Part I
Waterford Visitor’s Center – October 15
The Seneca Chief’s arrival in Waterford was marked by sunshine, pride, and a resounding cannon call — or at least a pyrotechnic version of one! Crowds lined the riverwalk on a beautiful Wednesday afternoon, eager to celebrate the canal that defines their town. With steady sales and constant chatter, the day flew by. Crew member Doug earned MVP status as my beer runner, keeping kegs and coolers stocked. As evening fell, fireworks drew in even more visitors, and the Waterford Visitors Center treated us to lasagna, hospitality, and a swag bag complete with a shot glass — now my own piece of Waterford crystal.

Day 21 – Waterford, Part II
Waterford Visitor’s Center – October 16
Thursday brought another sunny day and a smaller, easygoing crowd. After the previous day’s rush, the relaxed pace was a gift. That evening, the crew gathered at a backyard party hosted by John Callaghan, Executive Director of the Hudson River/Black River District. Around the campfire, stories and laughter flowed freely — the kind of night that turns colleagues into lifelong friends.

Day 22 – Troy, Part I
Troy Downtown Marina – October 17
A bright, chilly Friday in Troy began with a pre-dawn drive to Saratoga Springs for a fresh beer supply — Long Haul continues to live up to its name. Space was tight, and the Big Ditch setup found its home behind Ryan’s Wake Pub. The morning started slow but warmed up quickly, especially thanks to the kind pub owner who brought over a bowl of soup. By afternoon, the crowd thickened as visitors stopped for a beer after touring the boat. The day wrapped up just steps away at Brown’s Brewing, where comfort food and camaraderie capped off another leg of the voyage.

Day 23 – Troy, Part II
Troy Downtown Marina – October 18
Saturday’s weather was warmer, and though the stop was shorter, it turned into one of my favorites. With the Seneca Chief bound for Albany that evening, I finally had the chance to ride along on the boat. Floating down the Hudson River — beer in hand, surrounded by calm waters and fall colors — was pure magic. For weeks I’d been traveling alongside the crew by car, and getting to experience the voyage from their view felt like seeing the whole journey anew.

Day 24 – Albany
Jenning’s Landing – October 19
Wind and sunshine greeted us in Albany, where we set up above the Seneca Chief facing the amphitheater. To-go beer sales kept the afternoon moving at a steady pace. Andrew arrived just in time with reinforcements — the final batch of Long Haul, fittingly enough. After the event, we headed to Excelsior Pub downtown, where the menu pays homage to New York’s regions. Their “canal wings” — a blend of Buffalo’s Frank’s hot sauce and Albany’s sweet melba sauce — were the perfect bridge between home and the Capital.

Day 25 – Hudson
Henry Hudson Park – October 20
If there were ever a day that tested our resolve, Hudson was it. Gale-force winds, rain, and cold temperatures kept most folks indoors. To make matters worse, the Hayburnermobile suffered a flat tire — but thanks to Dan from AAA and the good people at J&D Auto in Cohoes, I was back on the road in record time. The day’s saving grace came from crew member Laura, who served up a steaming pot of chili that warmed body and soul. Spirits stayed high despite the weather, as we looked forward to clearer skies and the home stretch of our journey.

Reflections on Week Four

At every stop, I’ve been struck by the kindness and generosity of people across New York State — gestures big and small that remind you how much good there is in the world. The enthusiasm for this voyage has been contagious, and it’s inspiring to think that no one told the Buffalo Maritime Center to build a canal boat and sail it across the state — they just did. That same determination built the Erie Canal itself, and seeing it reborn through this voyage feels like history come full circle.

As we enter the Hudson Valley, the end of the journey draws near. But there’s still time for a few more laughs, a few more toasts, and a few more miles on this Long Haul.

Here’s to the next round, and the next town.

Captain’s Log

Journal entries from our Long Haul on the Bicentennial Voyage of the Erie Canal Boat, Seneca Chief

Week Three – Sylvan Beach to Riverlink Park

October 7–13

Day 14 – Sylvan Beach
Erie Canal Bypass – October 7
Rain finally found us in Sylvan Beach, marking our first soggy stop of the voyage. The Seneca Chief tied up beside a shuttered amusement park — surely a lively place in summer, though quiet now in the gray drizzle. Spirits lifted when Andrew, our sales director, arrived with a much-needed beer resupply. Together we set up in the rain and were rewarded with strong sales, especially Hayburner. That evening, Mayor Rick Sullivan welcomed the crew into the warmth of Eddie’s, a town staple, where dinner brought comfort after a damp day.

Day 15 – Rome
Bellamy Park – October 8
The weather shifted through warm, windy, and chilly as the day wore on, but Rome offered energy from the start. A crowd of 100 fourth graders greeted the Seneca Chief with wide-eyed excitement, while BMC’s education director, Chelsea Moore, delivered a lively Q&A on canal history. Rome holds special pride as the site where canal construction began on July 4, 1817. After 15 days in a row on the road, the promise of home and family carried me through. Before leaving, I admired a new tradition: planting a white pine tree at each stop, a living symbol of peace that will endure for centuries.

Break in the Voyage
After two weeks of nonstop travel, I finally took a few days at home. Chores, a campfire, and an Oktoberfest in my own backyard worked wonders. Thank you to Jess for stepping in to keep the long haul alive while I recharged.

Friday – Gems Along the Mohawk (by Jess)
Herkimer – October 10
Sunny skies and a crisp breeze made for a picture-perfect afternoon. The Big Ditch tent sat high on a patio with views of the bandstand and presentation area. School groups kicked off the day with projects and history presentations about the canal, filling the gazebo with energy. As the sun set, the band Soul Injection played into the night, capped by fireworks. The vibe was warm, welcoming, and fun — a shining gem along the Mohawk.

Saturday – Little Falls (by Jess)
Benton’s Landing – October 11
The morning started chilly but soon gave way to bright sunshine. Set up beside our friends at Buffalo Distilling, the tent looked out over the canal with beautiful views. Crowds wandered down throughout the day, many recognizing Big Ditch and especially Hayburner. One memorable piece of feedback dubbed Long Haul “spruce juice” — a nickname that made us smile. From nearby, a country concert at a brewery provided a soundtrack, adding to the lively mood.

Day 18 – Amsterdam
Riverlink Park – October 13
Another rainy day, but this time, a few steps from the Seneca Chief, our tent became a welcome shelter. Visitors ducked under the canopy to escape the drizzle, often leaving with a sample or a story. One gentleman brought Erie Canal treasures — photos from the 1850s, reprinted maps, and a book about Port Jackson. Holding these pieces of history in hand was a reminder of the depth of this journey. As night fell, the crew gathered to watch the Bills game outdoors. The final score disappointed, but the camaraderie — with beer and laughter — carried the evening.

Reflections on Week Three
Time at home gave me the reset I needed, and returning to the crew felt like coming back to family. We’ve learned that the Erie Canal is more than a waterway — it’s a thread connecting towns, people, and stories across generations. There are some things you can’t share without becoming closer, and traveling the Erie Canal together is one of them.

Here’s to the next round, and the next town.

Captain’s Log

Journal entries from our Long Haul on the Bicentennial Voyage of the Erie Canal Boat, Seneca Chief

Week Two – Newark to Brewerton

September 30–October 6

Day 7 – Newark
Port of Newark – September 30
The winds swept across Newark with force, turning tents into sails. My original location beside the pavilion felt like a wind tunnel, but shifting closer to the merch tent calmed the storm. The crowd was quieter than Fairport, but the day found its rhythm thanks to the soulful music of Corey Comer, a familiar voice from our Lockport taproom. The mission was simple: keep the tent out of the canal — and it was a success.

Day 8 – Lyons
Lyons Fire Department – October 1
A crisp fall day welcomed the Seneca Chief into Lyons, announced by the beat of a fife and drum band. Crowds gathered at the lock while the fire department grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, giving the afternoon a summer festival feel. Among many canal stories, one stood apart — Chip shared the tale of his grandfather, once a 10-year-old “hoggee” who led hayburners along the towpath. At 12, he earned a promotion only if he could afford a pocket watch — which he did, and that same watch still keeps time today. Holding a piece of living history like that was unforgettable.

Day 9 – Clyde
Lauraville Landing – October 1
The sun warmed Clyde as visitors explored the Seneca Chief, with many first-time tours and even some repeat travelers following their own canal adventures. One stood out: Rick from Canada, journeying from Lake Huron all the way to the Bahamas — now that’s a Long Haul. The day closed with hearty laughter at Stone 8 Tap House, where local law enforcement even helped shuttle the crew to dinner. With the car packed full of beer, the voyage pressed onward toward Central New York.

Day 10 – Baldwinsville
Angry Smokehouse – October 2
No tent required this time — just the lively patio of Angry Smokehouse, where a tap takeover featured four Big Ditch beers. The Seneca Chief docked across the bridge on Paper Mill Island while our Syracuse rep Jess and I poured samples for a crowd that welcomed every sip. When the crew arrived after their tours, we shared a meal of smoky barbecue and enjoyed the restaurant’s prideful, welcoming vibe.

Day 11 – Syracuse, Part I
Onondaga Lake Park – October 4
Summer returned for a day, with temperatures in the 80s drawing parkgoers to the water. Curious strollers became happy customers when they realized they could sip a cold beer while learning canal history. Buffalo Distilling and Cooper’s Daughter Distillery joined in the NYS Distilling tent, adding to the festive atmosphere. That evening, the Onondaga Yacht Club hosted the crew for a family-style steak dinner, complete with salt potatoes and corn — a feast that felt like a backyard party as the sun set over the lake.

Day 12 – Syracuse, Part II
Onondaga Lake Park – October 5
Another hot October day meant strong beer sales, with many picking up six-packs of Long Haul to take home for the Bills game. While the outcome of the game may be best forgotten, the evening offered a chance to explore Syracuse. A stop at The Hops Spot downtown brought a burger, craft beer, and a well-earned pause in the middle of the voyage.

Day 13 – Brewerton
Riverfront Park – October 6
Under a blazing October sun, we set up across from the main festivities — which turned out to be a blessing as our beer supply dwindled. Syracuse rep Jess joined me to get hands-on with the iPad system, preparing to take the reins for a few events and give me a short respite. As darkness fell, the Redneck Reuben Union food truck served the crew a meal under a rising full moon. The nights are growing cooler, the days shorter, but spirits remain strong.

Reflections on Week Two
The miles are adding up, and fatigue creeps in at times. I miss home, but the canal offers something more powerful: kindness from strangers, generosity from businesses, and countless stories that connect past and present. This voyage is proof that the Erie Canal still brings people together, one lock, one stop, one shared glass at a time.

Here’s to the next round, and the next town.

– Kait

Captain’s Log

Journal entries from our Long Haul on the Bicentennial Voyage of the Erie Canal Boat, Seneca Chief

Week One – Buffalo to Fairport

September 24–29

Day 1a – Buffalo Send-Off
The voyage began at Canalside, where the Seneca Chief cast off to the cheers of Buffalo. A proud flotilla of the city’s most famous boats escorted her departure — including the mighty Edward Cotter shooting waterjets skyward. Children aboard the USS Little Rock sang (and shouted) “15 Miles on the Erie Canal,” their voices carrying across the water. It was a fittingly spirited farewell as the long journey eastward began.

Day 1b – Lockport
Flight of Five – September 24
Warm skies and a bustling crowd greeted us at the historic locks. Though our tent sat up on the street, we caught plenty of canal-goers headed to the Rock the Locks concert. First-day jitters were soon washed away as the beer flowed faster than expected. Friends old and new stopped by, including Buffalo’s own Beer Goddess, Tracey Maciejewski. As evening fell, fireworks lit the sky over Lockport — a brilliant start to this long haul.

Day 2 – Medina
Canal Basin – September 25
Clouds gave way to a brief rain shower, but the spirits of Medina shone through. Set up right beside the Seneca Chief, we poured beer alongside Buffalo and Woodlawn Distilling, whose samples and bottles drew curious crowds. Though quieter than other ports, the stop was not without highlights: a warm welcome from Medina’s mayor and her husband, both enjoying a Long Haul, and the discovery that our beer was already on tap nearby. After the shift, a visit with old friend Vandra at the Shirt Factory brought a toast with a rare cocktail — proof that canal towns hold surprises of every flavor.

Day 3 – Brockport
Harvester Park – September 26
A flawless fall day in Brockport brought sunshine, clear skies, and an eager crowd. Though the Seneca Chief arrived a little late, the delay only meant more time for beer. The lines stayed steady as townsfolk gathered to welcome the boat. The energy was contagious, and the town’s beauty left a lasting impression — a place worthy of a return trip, even beyond the voyage.

Day 4 – Rochester
Corn Hill Navigation – September 27
Rochester rolled out a warm welcome, pairing our beer with music, river cruises, and community cheer. From a lively guitar-and-fiddle duo to the folksy Heart Throbs String Band, the air was alive with sound. Visitors boarded the Riverie for 30-minute cruises, catching views of the Seneca Chief from the water. Though I couldn’t stay for the fireworks, the generosity of new friends lingered — from postcards at the Visit Rochester table to handmade crocheted coasters gifted by Angela, whose kindness I’ll carry down the canal.

Day 5 – Fairport, Part I
The Box Factory – September 28
The voyage reached Fairport on another perfect autumn day, with the Seneca Chief docked right behind us. Distilling friends joined once again, this time with Buffalo Distilling and Smokin’ Tails of Phelps, NY. A slow start (perhaps the Bills’ game kept folks busy!) gave way to a steady afternoon, even as we wrangled with card readers. The evening brought dinner with the crew at Junction361 — pizza, good company, and the smell of fresh coffee tempting us past nightfall.

Day 6 – Fairport, Part II
The Box Factory – September 29
To my surprise, weekday mornings in Fairport bustle with visitors. By noon, folks were in a beery mood, and in twenty minutes two cases of six-packs disappeared. It was a long but rewarding day, capped by a special reception hosted by the Village at LuLu Taqueria. Grilled chicken tacos with avocado made a fine pairing to our Long Haul, and I was even invited to join the panel discussion about our journey. To be welcomed as part of the crew was an honor — proof that this voyage is stitching together not just towns, but people.

Reflections on Week One
Six days down the canal, and already this journey has been rich with sights, flavors, and friendships. Autumn in Western New York is showing its colors, and though the road (and the canal) stretch ahead, I feel ready. This is just the beginning — and I’m in it for the Long Haul.

Here’s to the next round, and the next town.

– Kait

Last month we announced a new beer, Long Haul, a honey lager we brewed in collaboration with the Buffalo Maritime Center to celebrate the Erie Canal Bicentennial.

While we are very excited about the collaborative beer, the most important part of this collaboration is the Bicentennial Voyage.

From September 24^th through October 26th, the Buffalo Maritime Center’s full-scale replica canal boat, the Seneca Chief, will set out on a 33-day, 500-mile journey from Buffalo to New York City, commemorating Governor DeWitt Clinton’s historic trip in 1825. Big Ditch Brewing Company, stocked with plenty of Long Haul (and also Hayburner), will travel with the boat and be available at stops along the route.

That’s right, Big Ditch will be travelling alongside the Seneca Chief and serving beer right next to the Erie Canal as we celebrate the Bicentennial with New York State. Our brand ambassador Kait will be travelling with the Maritime crew and providing samples, selling beer to consume at each stop, and selling 6-packs to go.

It’s been a lot of work preparing for this journey; Big Ditch has been working on this for over two years! (Which is a relatively small amount of time compared to the amount of time the Buffalo Maritime Center has been planning this journey.) Not to mention the fact that Kait will be on the road for a month straight travelling across New York State!

However, this is a once-in-a-century opportunity to celebrate the Erie Canal, the waterway that changed New York State forever (and our brewery’s namesake).  If there’s no Erie Canal, there’s no Buffalo as we know it today; and there definitely wouldn’t be a Big Ditch! So, we’re honored to have this opportunity to serve our beer to New Yorkers for such a special occasion.

Look for Big Ditch, our cans of Long Haul and Hayburner, the Seneca Chief, and the Buffalo Maritime Center at the following stops. We can’t wait to see you there and celebrate with you!

• Lockport – Wed. 9/24, 6pm -8pm, Flight of Five Forebay
• Medina – Thurs. 9/25, 4pm -7pm, Medina Canal Basin
• Brockport – Fri. 9/26, 4pm -7pm, Harvester Park
• Rochester – Sat. 9/27, 4pm -7pm, Corn Hill Navigation
• Fairport – Sun. 9/28, 2pm-4:30pm & Mon. 9/29, 11am-6pm, Erie Canal at the Box Factory
• Newark – Tues. 9/30, 4pm -7pm, Port of Newark
• Lyons – Wed. 10/1, 3pm -7pm, Lyons Fire Department
• Clyde – Thurs. 10/2, 3pm -7pm, Lauraville Landing Park
• Baldwinsville – Fri. 10/3, 5:30pm -7pm, Angry Smokehouse
• Syracuse – Sat. 10/4, 1pm -6pm + Sun. 10/5, 11am -5pm, Onondaga Lake Park
• Brewerton – Mon. 10/6, 4pm -7pm, Riverfront Park
• Sylvan Beach – Tues. 10/7, 4pm -6:30pm, Erie Canal 1^st Bypass
• Rome – Wed. 10/8, 2pm -6:30pm, Bellamy Harbor Park
• Utica – Thurs. 10/9, 2pm -7pm (the Seneca Chief will be here, unfortunately Big Ditch will not!)
• Herkimer – Fri. 10/10, 2pm -6:30pm, Gems Along the Mohawk
• Little Falls – Sat. 10/11, 12:30pm -5pm, Benton’s Landing
• Canajoharie – Sun. 10/12, 2pm -7pm (the Seneca Chief will be here, unfortunately Big Ditch will not!)
• Amsterdam – Mon. 10/13, 4pm -7pm, Riverlink Park
• Schenectady – Tues. 10/14, 4pm -6:30pm, The River House
• Waterford – Wed. 10/15, 4:30pm -6pm + Thurs. 10/16, 2pm -6pm, Waterford Harbor Visitor Center
• Troy – Fri. 10/17, 12pm -6pm + Sat. 10/18, 10am -3pm, Troy Downtown Marina
• Albany – Sun. 10/19, 12pm -4pm, Jennings Landing
• Hudson – Mon. 10/20, 4pm -7pm, Henry Hudson Riverfront Park
• Kingston – Tues. 10/21, 4pm -7pm + Wed. 10/22, 2pm -6pm, Hudson River Maritime Museum
• Cornwall-on-Hudson – Thurs. 10/23, 4pm -6:30pm, Cornwall Yacht Club
• Ossining – Fri. 10/24, 4pm -6:30pm, Shattemuc Yacht Club
• New York City – Sat. + Sun. 10/25 – 26 (the Seneca Chief will be here, unfortunately Big Ditch will not!)

We’re throwing it back to the glory days of weekend beer releases – the kind that drew lines out the door and filled fridges for the whole weekend.

This Saturday, Packet IPA is back. One of our most requested beers, this juicy hop bomb is packed with Galaxy and Mosaic hops, delivering sticky, tropical flavor with just enough bitterness to keep you coming back for more.

7.2% ABV
Juicy. Floral. Hop bomb.
Named after the packet boats of the Erie Canal – and just as legendary.

Available in 4-packs and on draft at both our Buffalo and Lockport tap rooms starting at noon on Saturday, June 28. Grab a pint, stock the fridge, and maybe even plan ahead for the 4th of July. (Limited batch – get it while it lasts!)