Tags: Canal.
The Duluth Ship Canal is an artificial channel cut through Minnesota Point providing direct access to Duluth harbor from Lake Superior. Begun privately in 1871 it was put under federal supervision and maintenance several years later. It is still an important component of the harbor facilities.In its current configuration the channel is defined by a pair of breakwaters 1720 feet (520 m) long and 300 feet (91 m) apart constructed of concrete set on timber and stone cribbing.