Dan Rice Days - Erie Extension Canal - Battles Bank - Girard

The Project Algerine crew are exploring Dan Rice Days in Girard: Insights on Erie Extension Canal History and Local Folklore.

[00:03](   • Dan Rice Days - Erie Extension Canal - Bat...  ) Exploring Dan Rice Days in Erie with local pride.
The event highlights the community's love for Girard, celebrated through music and activities.
Historical reference to the tragic incident involving Ellen Shannon emphasizes local lore.

[01:44](   • Dan Rice Days - Erie Extension Canal - Bat...  ) The origin of a fading tombstone and its pop culture references.
In the 1960s, a new tombstone was made to replace the fading original.
The story includes references to a burned ship and its appearance in the video game Fallout 2.

[02:51](   • Dan Rice Days - Erie Extension Canal - Bat...  ) Exploring the historical remains of the Eerie Extension Canal in Girard.
The hosts appreciate the pleasant weather while venturing to the canal.
They highlight the remnants of train tracks and the canal bed's location.

[04:15](   • Dan Rice Days - Erie Extension Canal - Bat...  ) Exploring the historical Erie Extension Canal route and its surroundings.
The canal historically intersected Route 20, marking an important transportation link.
The area is now overgrown, making it difficult to clearly identify the canal's original layout.

[05:45](   • Dan Rice Days - Erie Extension Canal - Bat...  ) Overview of Girard's history and notable residents.
Girard was established in 1832, named after banker Stephen Girard.
Dan Rice, a famous circus owner, wintered his circus in Girard from 1852 to 1875.

[06:30](   • Dan Rice Days - Erie Extension Canal - Bat...  ) Lalla Rookh, the elephant and Dan Rice's contributions to American entertainment.
Lalla Rookh, a trained Asian elephant, was famous for tightrope walking and swimming across the Ohio River in 1860.
Dan Rice, born as Daniel McLaren, became an influential entertainer, influencing the depiction of Uncle Sam through his patriotic performances.

[08:01](   • Dan Rice Days - Erie Extension Canal - Bat...  ) The Battles Bank was established in 1893 and known for its strong construction.
Founded by Rush Battles, who was a farmer, lawyer, and businessman, highlighting his diverse background.
After Rush Battles' death in 1904, the bank was passed to his wife Charlotte and daughter Elizabeth, continuing its private operations.

[09:40](   • Dan Rice Days - Erie Extension Canal - Bat...  ) Battles Bank operated during the 1933 bank holiday, maintaining independence and safeguarding deposits.
Despite the national bank closure, Battles Bank continued operations by asserting its private status.
The bank successfully protected all depositor funds until merging with Girard National in 1946.