The Canal

At the age of 15, Garfield walked to Cleveland in a journey of almost three days looking for work on the water and was hired by a cousin as a mule driver for a canal boat. He was soon promoted to bowsman because of his disposition, ability, and attention to duty. He also worked as a bower, making the locks ready, getting the boats through, trimming the lamps, and handling other tasks, and his salary was $14 per month.

Moreland Hills, Ohio · United States