The Gaylord Building (1838) played a vital role in one of the great enterprises of the 19th century: the digging of the 96-mile-long Illinois & Michigan Canal.  The handsome limestone warehouse was the construction depot for the canal, which linked Lake Michigan with the Illinois River, opening the Midwest to commerce and industry.  Located on the banks of the I&M Canal in historic downtown Lockport, is the internationally known Public Landing Restaurant which is housed in the Gaylord Building.