Lock 6W

Locks were used on the Morris Canal for small changes in elevation, usually 20 feet or less. Locks were usually built from wood or stone with gates at each end. They would open or close to allow water in and out. Then the boat would rise or lower to the level of the water they were traveling toward. Locktenders lived close by in order to keep the traffic moving through the locks.

The Port Colden Lock was able to lift boats up about 10 feet. It was located near what is now called Lock Street (across the street from the Port Colden School). The Lock Complex consisted of the lock, the locktender's shed and the locktender's house.

The lock has been filled in but some large rocks can be found in the yard suggesting that the lock may be at least partially intact underground. The locktender's house is still standing nearby.