This canal lock was constructed in 1839-1840. It was needed due to the water level being raised on the Licking Reservoir. Although this canal lock is gone, the magnificent Pugh Mansion still stands today.

The Pugh Family were among the earliest settlers in Walnut Township, settling in 1805. Byron M. Pugh was born on July 3, 1832. He decided early in life to be a farmer, and eventually purchased 382 acres of land. Pugh took full advantage of the Ohio & Erie Canal. He built a warehouse on his property along the canal and shipped a large amount of grain on canal boats each year. Pugh built a large flouring mill in Basil. His mill was capable of grinding 100 bushels a day.

"Mr. Pugh was widely and favorably known as a successful and enterprising businessman of the highest integrity."