Double Eagle II
Double Eagle II landed in Miserey, France, in 1978. The balloon and its crew, Larry Newman, Ben Abruzzo, and Max Anderson, had left Presque Island, Maine, on August 11, 1978. The balloon was the first one of its kind to travel across the Atlantic Ocean, and the three balloonists instantly became heroes. Idea: Children could list the difficulties the crew faced. For example, where did they sleep? Older children can learn more at: Double Eagle II.
Map of Erie Canal
Erie Canal started operating in 1825. Construction began on July 4, 1817. It joined the Atlantic Ocean (via the Hudson River) and Lake Erie. Approximately 363 miles long, it had 36 locks. Previously goods had to be shipped by wagon and pack animals. The canal cut transportation costs by 95 percent. Children can view an excellent video at: Erie Canal.
Saint Lawrence Seaway began operating in 1959. Construction began in September, 1954. Over 6000 people had to be relocated because a reservoir would cover their land. Canada and the United States each operate a portion of the 450-mile seaway. It connects Lake Erie to Montreal to the Atlantic Ocean. Children could read Gail Gibbons’s The Great St. Lawrence Seaway. Children could also visit: Seaway. They could study the Suez Canal and the St. Lawrence Seaway in more detail. How are the two alike? How are they different?
Charles Lindbergh
Charles Lindbergh started his solo flight across the Atlantic in 1927. He left Long Island, New York, in the Spirit of St. Louis at 7:52 AM. He arrived at Paris, France, at 10:24 PM on May 21. “Lucky Lindbergh” won a $25,000 prize for his efforts. He instantly became a national hero. Idea: Children could read more about his life and the fame he faced.
Construction of the Erie Canal began in 1817. The Erie Canal opened on October 26, 1825. It joined the Atlantic Ocean (via the Hudson River) and Lake Erie. Approximately 363 miles long, it had 36 locks. Previously goods had to be shipped by wagon and pack animals. The canal cut transportation costs by 95 percent. Children can view an excellent video at: Erie Canal.