The village of Blake's Mills once surrounded this canal lock. Blake's Mills was founded in 1833 by Walter M. Blake. The village had a brewery, paper mill, gristmill, and a lime kiln. Mr. Blake had a large gristmill constructed nearby in 1854, which he operated until his death. The canal provided an excellent mode of transportation for his goods. Blake's Mills eventually became part of Lockport, then Lockport became New Philadelphia.