When it opened on 22 February 1819 a general holiday was called and crowds of spectators, reportedly 60,000, gathered to watch the first boats, a flotilla of 10 arrive from Tinsley.
Nowadays it is a place to escape city life, enjoy a barging holiday or spot of fishing. We have dug out 20 great pictures from the archive showing the people who give the canals its character.
Want more Sheffield retro? Meadowhall shoppers, Read how Sheffield’s weather station played a vital role in WW2
A message from the Editor:
Thank you for reading this story. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on our advertisers and thus our revenues.
The Star is more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription to support our journalism. You can subscribe here www.thestar.co.uk/subscriptions for unlimited access to Sheffield news and information online.
Every subscription helps us continue providing trusted, local journalism and campaign on your behalf for our city.
Thank you
Nancy Fielder, editor
9. Brothers
Martin Coleman, seven, and brother Anthony Coleman, 11 in 1999 Photo: Andrew Partridge
11. Sister act
Sisters Paula and Caro Whiteside, left, who have been in their shop " Prego" in the ~Victoria Quays for 2 years in 2000 Photo: Andrew Partridge (Staff)
12. Sam's Abode
Mike Sheenan aboard his canal boat, Sam's Abode, in the marina at West Stockwith in 2001 Photo: Steve Taylor (staff)