Erie Canal in Song: A Musical Ride with Tyler Bagwell

Step back in time with a ride that blends history, music, and movement along Buffalo’s historic canal corridor. Led by local musician and historian Tyler Bagwell, this tour explores the story of the Erie Canal through the folk songs and musical traditions that shaped its legacy.

As we pedal through the Old First Ward and Outer Harbor, Tyler will bring the past to life with live performances of songs like Low Bridge, Everybody Down, and other lesser-known ballads. These tunes offer insight into the lives of canal workers, many of whom were immigrants facing long days, dangerous conditions, and uncertain futures.

You'll hear about iconic local figures such as Kitty O’Neil, Chauncey Olcott, and Michael Shea, whose work on stage and in song helped define the spirit of canal-era Buffalo. We’ll also explore the Irish and African American musical traditions woven into the canal’s story, highlighting how music became a source of identity, protest, and resilience.

Whether you’re a history buff, music lover, or casual rider, this unique tour offers an unforgettable way to experience the canal’s 200-year legacy—by bike and by song.

About the Guide

Tyler Bagwell is a multi-talented Buffalo creative—musician, graphic designer, and leading curator of sonic history. As the recipient of the 2024 Owen B. Augspurger Red Jacket Award presented by the Buffalo History Museum, Tyler earned recognition for his outstanding contributions to preserving local heritage through music. He plays in several bands—including Captain Tom and the Hooligans—and is a familiar face at community concerts and heritage programming, often bringing fresh, design-forward visuals to accompany his deep dives into Buffalo's musical past. Known for his engaging stage presence and love of funk, punk, soul, and more, Tyler unearths the city’s overlooked sound stories and shares them through immersive tours, performances, and striking visual media.