jan 1, 1442 - towing path

Description:

We associate the tow path with canals and horse-drawn barges, and references in the OED date from that period. Nevertheless, the men who worked the inland waterways in the Middle Ages must also have used tow paths. When Turnbridge in Snaith was under discussion, in 1442, Parliament confirmed <i>to the shipmen … the right of having towing paths … as of old</i>, so the practice of towing boats was already well established at that time (HSY154).

Added to timeline:

Date: