Considerations on the great western canal, from the Hudson to lake Erie: with a view of its expence, advantages, and progress

i OXS1DEB ATIONS

ON THE

GBJE AT WESTERN" CANAL,

TUB

HUDSON TO LAKE ERIE

WITH A VIEW OF ITS

30JPENCE, ADVANTAGES, AND PROGRESS.

Second Edition. -

PUBLISHED BY ORDEK OF THE

\EW-YORK CORRESPONDING ASSOCIATION,

ron rprf, FtiotioTiox OF

a»OONER &T WORTHIXGTOX, PKINTER*, BROOKLYN*.

1818.

•

AV presenting to the public the following Considerations
on the Western and Northern Canals. 1 return my thanks
to those gentlemen in the western part of the State* who hare
aided me in my work, by the communication of some impor-
tant facts. It is hoped, that A VIEW OF THE RE-
SOURCES OF THE STATE OF NEW-YORK* will be
presented to the Nation, in the course of a feiv months, un-
der the patronage of the New- Fork Corresponding Associa-
tion. Through this channel, an appeal is now made to a
liberal and enlightened community, for every detail and every
species of information, which may tend to the accomplishment
of this object. Communications addressed to the subscriber)
or to the Chairman of the Committee of Correspondence for
the Association, would be gratefully received.

CHARLES G. HALVES.

JCnc-Fork, October, 1818*

THE

New- York Corresponding Association,,

FOR THE PROMOTION OF

INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS.

• :> ^M«v: *& ?

THIS Association has for its object, the aequisilion and
diffusion of all useful intelligence, connected with the Inland
trade and navigation of the country. Its founders have in-
dulged the hope, that by opening an extensive correspon-
dence. with gentlemen of the first distinction, throughout
the Union, and by imbodying and sending forth, in a com-
prehensive form, the information which might be thus ac-
quired, great and permanent benefit could be rendered to the
American people, and much incitement given to that noble
and munificent spirit of enterprize, in relation to Internal
Improvements, which now distinguishes every quarter of the
United States.

OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION.

I3E WITT CLINTON, President.
SAMUEL L. MITCHILL,

SMUEL L. MITCHILL, •} v.

CADWALLADER I), t OLDEN, J ^ l

Committee of Correspondence and Publication*

THOMAS EDDY, Chairman.

WILLIAM BAYARD, I PIERRE C. VAX WYCJ

THEODORES BAILBY, JOHN PINTARD,

SYLVANUS MILLER, I JAMES L. BELL,

JAMES TALLMADGE, Jun. JOHN Me KESSON,

IlOBKRT BOGAUDUS, | R. J], BoWNB.

CHAULES G. HAINES, Corresponding Secretary.
POST, Jun. Treasurer.

CONSIDERATIONS

OX THE

GREAT WESTERN CANAL, &c.

THE interest which is excited throughout this country,
and in the minds oi' some ot" the first statesmen and puhlie
characters in Europe, in relation to the great \vorks of in-
land navigation, which are now vigorously prosecuted under
the patronage of the XEW-YORK STATE GOVERNMENT, ren-
ders it necessary to give an occasional exposition of the pro-
gress and success of our vast hut practicable undertakings.

Like all great projects, embracing in their scope (he pros-
perity and welfare of states and empires, the Grand Canal
from the Hudson to the Lakes, has come in for a share of
obloquy and reprehension. By the weak and timid, it has
been viewed as a visionary project of state grandeur; by the
base and designing, it has been denounced as an attempt at
popularity.^ Experience will detect the error and criminali-
ty of both imputations. When the great Colbert, in conjunc-
tion with the celebrated engineer, M. Riquet, undertook to
connect the Mediterranean sea with tfie Atlantic ocean, by
the Canal of Languedoc, to aid in building up the marine of
France, and to fortify an independent commercial system ; his
plan was viewed by many with astonishment and derision.
Yet docs this canal stand as the most honorable monument of
the illustrious reign of Louis 14th. But few great benefac-
tors of their age, have received the immediate tribute of
gratitude and applause due to their distinguished services.
It is time that consecrates their deeds, as immovable land-
marks in the historv of civilization.

6

I :
rftfeNAi, NAVIGATION will hereafter constitute one of

5 primary objects of our state and national policy. Many
inevitable causes have heretofore detracted from that atten-
tion which is at all times due to its magnitude and importance.
We are yet an infant nation. When we emerged from the
conflicts of the revolution, we had a great national debt to
pay, and a new government to organize and sustain. For-
eign commerce afforded the natural and ready means to ac-
complish these ends, and it was pursued with success, to the
exclusion of any regular system of internal trade. The
tremendous commotions of the belligerent world, favored
this exclusive policy, until the flagrant depredations of the
European powers, and the war which they produced, sv.ept
our commerce from the ocean. Our commercial relations
are now assuming a more permanent character, and we shall
gradually extend them until they grasp the boundaries of the
maritime world, by the bold and vigorous application of our
internal resources./^

It is unnecessary in this place, to dwell with much detail

on the vast importance of an extensive and vigorous system

importance of inland trade. It is amply elucidated by almost every em-

01 internal . ....

Trade and ment writer, who has taken up his pen to instruct nations in
m< their commercial pursuits. « The home trade," says Vat-
tel,=* " is of vast use. It furnishes all the citizens with the
means of procuring what they want, as either necessary,
useful or agreeable. It causes a circulation of money, cre-
ates industry, animates labor, and by affording subsistence to
a great number of subjects, contributes to render the coun-
try more populous and flourishing. In fine, this commerce
being of advantage <o the nation, it is obliged, as a duty to
itself, to render it prosperous." Adam Smith observes in
his wealth of nations. f « That good roads and canals and
navigable rivers, by diminishing the expense of carriage,
put the remote parts of the country more nearly upon a

* Vide p. 69, Laws Nations*
t Vol. 1, p. 229,

'7

level with those in the neighbourhood of large towns ; and
on that aceount THEY AHE THE GREATEST OF ALL IM-
PROVEMENTS." But commercial prosperity is not the only
advantage to be derived from such means to promote inter-
nal trade ^^Vhile they lead to national happiness and na-
tional strength, they cement together a wide spread commu-
nity, not only by the strong tics of interest, but also by every
social tic that can unite an enlightened and powerful people.
Who that has glanced his eye over the map of our exten-
sive country — Who that remembers the strong local features
that bear the everlasting impress of nature's own hand, but
perceives the palpable necessity of such affinities ? Wash-
ington, Franklin, Jefferson, Rittenhouse and Adams saw it*
The most distinguished statesmen of this and of every other
country now see it. Our mountains must be politically an-
nihilated. Our sectional barriers must be swept away by a
moral arm, whose power is resistless. Our manners, our Advanta-

. . ,. . . gresoflnter-

habits, our principles, our political maxims and our mostnai Trade
pervading sympathies, must wear an aspect that is settled, ion.0"
uniform and consistent. Nothing but this, can perpetuate
that union which is to guarantee our future national greatness.
Nothing but this, can preserve those popular institutions
which are sealed with our fathers' blood. Nothing but this,
can carry us along to that height of glory which breaks upon
our gaze through the vista of futurity, and beckens us to its
cloudless summit. Nay, on this subject, vre can almost hear
the voice of distant generations, speaking in supplications
loud as the thunders of a higher w orld^ But let us quote
the opinions of men whose names impart a consequence to
their sentiments, that is worthy to be held in constant re-
membrance. The Duke of SulJy, the celebrated minister
of Henry IV. and one of the most profound men whom
France ever saw, early perceived the importance of a vigo-
rous policy to improve the internal trade of his country,
He observed that France could easily draw to herself the
commerce of the ocean and the Mediterranean, and sec them

I

in the middle of her provinces, by a canal navigation. We
find in his memoirs the following judicious remarks : "The
joining rivers and making roads, which render the commu-
nicating either of different provinces, or different parts of
the same provinre, more easy and commodious, are per-
haps the two most important objects to which a wise gov-
ernment can apply its attention in a time of peace. It is
necessary that there should be some principal centre for
the riches of the nation ; but nevertheless, other
cities should not fall a sacrifice %to the capital ; which
being in the body politic what the heart is to the human
body, constantly receiving the Mood, and as constantly re-
pelling it, even to the most extreme parts, they cannot be
deprived of it without bringing languor on the whole ma-
chine. Much trouble might be saved in studying the na-
ture of those secret springs, which give motion to the
most minute branches of commerce, were due attention
giv«n to that simple and obvious principle, of only supply-
ing the country people with the means of living in ease and
plenty."* But let us come home to our own statesmen,
whose remarks may more immediately apply to ourselves.
We shall first quote the words of Albert Gallatin. « The
inconvenience, complaints, and perhaps dangers," says this
able politician " which may result from a vast extent of
territory, can no otherwise be radically removed, or preven-
ted, than by opening speedy and easy communications
through all its parts. Good Roads and Canals, will shorten
distances, facilitate commercial and personal intercourse,
and unite, by a still more intimate community of interests,
the remote sections of the United States. No other single
operation within the power of government, can more effect-
ually tend to strengthen and perpetuate that Union which
secures external independence, domestic peace, and internal
liberty."| The next great man we shall quote is Joel Bar-

*Sully's Mem. Vol. 3, p. 333.

'I Report on public Roads and Canal?., 1807.

9

He observes, (hat " Public improvements, such as
roads anil canals, are usually considered only in a commer-
cial and economical point of light ; but they ought also to
be reganled in a moral and political light. The means to be
relied on to hold this beneficent union together, must apply
directly to the interest and convenience of the people. They
must at the same time enable them to discern that interest*
and be sensible of that convenience. The people must be-
come habituated to enjoy a visible, palpable and incontestible
good ; greater good than they could promise themselves by
any change. — They must have information enough to per-
ceive it, to reason upon it, to know why they enjoy it, from
whence it flows, how it was attained, how it is to be preser-
ved, and how it may be lost."* The immortal Fulton, the
second Franklin of his age, has remarked \vilh Ins usual
discrimination and intelligence, «» That when the United
States shall be bound together by Canals, by cheap and easy
access to rmir'vet in all directions, by a sense of mutual in-
terests, arising from mutual intercourse and mingled com-
merce, it will be no more possible to split them into inde-
pendent and separate governments, obliging each to line its
own frontiers with troops, to shackle its own exports and
imports to and from the neighboring states, than it is possi-
ble now for the government of England to divide and form
again into seven kingdoms. Here is a certain method of
securing the Union of the States, and of rendering it as per-
manent as tbe continent v.e inhabit,"! With these prelim-
inary remarks and illustrations, we shall proceed to notice
the state of our inland navigation.

No one need enquire what are the advantages of the state
of New- York for Intern J Commerce. The map of our
state will answer the question and put curiosity at rest.
Neither do we want ability to improve these advantages

* Address to the Citizens of Washington City,

• Letter to Mr. Gnliatin, Dec. 13, 1807.

B

10

providence has planted around us. A state whicH
rests her borders, upon the ocean on one side, and on the
other reposes upon the greatest chain of infernal seas upon
the face of the globe, diversified by interior Lakes and trib-
utary streams, with a river whose tides and facilities for
navigation can scarcely find a comparison ; a state that con-
tains a more extensive soil than Portugal, the United Neth-
erlands, or England and Wales put together ; a state that
stands in the heart of the union, and could now sustain the
\vhole population of the American Empire, and can yearly
pay ten or twelve millions of dollars into the treasury of the
nation, without inconvenience ; whose splendid commercial
emporium, catches the gaze of the foreigner as though it
were gilded with the decorations of enchantment* and even
now has a tonnage that no city in the world can equal but
London itself; finally, a state, that presents a million and a
half of wealthy, intelligent, enterprizing and high minded
republicans, attached to the union, the government and (he
laws.-— We say, that such a state, does present no common
spectacle. We are proud in its contemplation— -we execrate
the wretch who is not so. We arc proud too* at the great
and salutary end to which these resources are bent.

The people of this state early perceived the benefits of In-
ternal Trade, and previous to the late war with England,
the GRAND CANAL from the Hudson to Lake Erie
Avas contemplated. Such an undertaking was alone suitable
to a state of peace. It was accordingly postponed to that
period, when more favorable auspices should await its pros-
ecution. That period arrived, when DE WITT CLINTON
was unanimously called to the chief magistracy of the state.
The eyes of the people were fixed upon him, with an expect-
ation that the Great Western Canal would be vigorously
prosecuted to its final completion. The work will be pros-
ccut(*I and triumphantly finished.

As we are presenting to the American people, some view
of our internal improvements, it may be well to show sonic-

11

thing of the original calculations of the commissioners, eon*
cerning the Grand Canal ; to take a slight riew of its ad-
vantages ; and give a correct detail of its state and progress
the present season./

The length of the Canal, from the Hudson to the Lakes,
is calculated at three hundred and fifty-three miles, accor-
ding to the report of the commissioners appointed by the
New- York Legislature, on the 17th April, 1816. They ob- si
served that in their opinion, " the dimensions of the Western canal™
or Erie Canal and Locks, should be as follows, viz :-~-width
on the vater surface, forty feet ; at the bottom, twenty-
eight feet, and depth of water four feet; the length of a
lock, ninety feet, and its width, twelve feet in the clear.
Vessels carrying one hundred tons may navigate a canal of
this size — and all the lumber produced in the country, and
required for the market, may be transported upon it." The
aggregate rise and fall is in feet 661 35, and the elevation
of Lake Eric above the Hudson, is calculated to be in feet
5Gi 85. — The number of locks will be seventy-seven. The
canal has been divided into three great sections. The west-
ern section reaches from Lake Erie to Seneca River ; the
middle section leads from Seneca River to Rome, and the
eastern, from Rome to the Hudson.

The average expense of the canal per mile, is estimated
at §13,800 ; being twelve hundred dollars per mile less than
Mr. Fulton and Mr. Gallatin assigned, as an average ex-
pense for each mile of American canal.* The whole ex-
pense of the great western canal, is calculated at g4,884,738.
Should it, howrever, proceed in a route south of what is cal-
led the mountain ridge, west of the Genesce River, then
there will be a deduction in the expenditures, which leaves
the whole estimated cost, as made by the commissioners, a$
$4,571,813 00.

* Vide Report on Canals, 1 807.

These statements arc taken from the report of the eamif
commissioners, made to the New- York Legislature, Februa-
ry dUS 1817. They hfive antecedently been laid before the
public in various shapes ; but we again submit them, after
they have been partially tested. The last report which has
been made by the commissioners* \vas submitted to the le-
gislature on the 31st of January, 1818, and to which we
shall more particularly refer in the course of our remarks.
Tliis report only confirms the correctness of all ihose which
preceded it, and only proves, that the estimates were ratliep
too high than too low. Sufficient it will be here to remark,
that from experience and subsequent observation, the Grand
Canal will even cost less than the commissioners and the
state government have calculated. This we shall prove and
illustrate.

"We will now advert to some of the great advantages which
must result to the slate of New-York, to the western coun-
try, ami to the nation at large from the Grand Western
Canal,

We have before taken a view of the principal advantages
that must result to our union, and to our republican institu-
tions, by attaching the various sections of the country more
immediately together, by means of internal communication.
Our Great Canal, in this respect, will produce a train of ex-
clusive and permanent benefits, which could not, from local
causes, pertain to any similar undertaking within the scope
of ourselves, or of the nation. "When you connect the Hud-
son with the Lakes, by such a communication, you virtually
place the Atlantic seaboard and the great western interior
b.v the side of each other. From the ocean, you can pass
through this whole chain of inland seas, navigable to ves-
sels of the largest burthen. Nor shoulf! we stop here — New-
York and New Orleans could be brought, in point of inter-
course, near each other. At trifling expense, and with no
great effort of labour, you could open a communication by
water, through which a vast commerce could be carried on

13

from Lake Michigan to the Illinois River, which

into the >ii^ ..hove St. Lt.t:;?. and traverses nearly

the whole extent of Unit rising and fertile territory, which

will -oon be uuinitfi-d as a state among the other sisters

of the union,* Even in high waters, there is now a

navigation for small crafl, hel\\cen the waters of the Conncx-

lllinoi* aiid the southern extremity of Lake Michigan [JJj

through thenango Creek. The Miami of Lake Erie, and

the tributary streams of Lake Michigan, near the head wa-the .
u is oi' the Illinois, could easily he united, and a direct ehan- *
nel from Lake Erie imo the Mississippi thus be opened. It
n>av iJso be observed, that the sources of the Miami of Lake
Erie, and the head waters of the \Vabash, have about the
same level, are near each other, and could easily be united
without encountering the least obstruction. By this means,
a communication could be opened with the Mississippi,
through one of the most charming and fertile countries that
the eve of man has ever visited, or his hands ever improved.
Another p::s«?aj;e from the Lakes to the Mississippi could be
effected, by uniting the waters of the Miami of Lake Erie
and the Miami of the Ohio, whose waters, at the sources,
are nearly on the same level. That some of these channels
will &hortl\ be opened, no rational man can doubt, \\lio re*
collects the character of that population who inhabit the
country tliev will enrich. Three of her great canals could
easily unite the Hudson and the Ohio, by means of Lake
f>ie. First — by means of the Sandusky and Sciota rivers,
The former which empties into the Lake, and the latter into.
the Ohio, have their waters from i!ie same svtamp. Theiv
junction would hardly cost an effort. The second would be
.'••> uniting the Mr.skingum and the Cayuga Rivers. The
former empties into the Ohio, one hundred and seventy miles
below Pittsburg, and the latter turns its waters into Lake
Erie. Six miks of Canal would unite them, and we believe

* Illinois is already admitted by act of Congress, but having
only 40,000 people, she cannot immediately become a state.

14

that a company now actually exists to execute this purpose*
The third communication would be between Lake Erie and
the AHeghany branch of the Ohio. There are two ways by
which this object could be effected ; the first by joining their
waters through French Creek, which would want about six-
teen miles of canal— the other, through Lake Chetoughe to
the Alleghany. A considerable navigation is now carried on
through this Lake. The people on the borders of French
Creek arc very ardent in the project of a canal, that would
unite the waters of the Lakes with the Ohio at Pittsburg,
and are themselves capable of doing it, in a single season, if
they are endued with that noble enlerprize, which so gener-
ally distinguishes their western brethren. \That systems of
internal trade and navigation may yet spring from the com-
pletion of our great undertaking, even after we pass the
shores of Michigan, is left for future entcrprize and future
events to determine. The mighty waters beyond this Lake
are yet to be brought into requisition, for the great purposes
o£. national grandeur and individual convenience.*
,^'Pause for a moment, and consider the mighty population
which will yet cluster on the shores of this chain of Lakes
and the unnumbered streams which foil their tributary boun-
ties into their bosoms J/5The great western world which re-
poses upon their wide-stretched shores, needs no description
of ours, to enhance its value in the estimation of the Amer-
ican people, /p. will yet contain a population, unequalled by
any in the world for industry, enterprize and independence ;
a population bound together by ties of union and interest,
created and fortified bj a grand system of internal improve-
of vltieb the Great \\fstein Canal nill be the l»ul-
the animating spectacle here presented in perspect-
ive, we see a great republican itii.iiuniu, cemented by the

* On the ease and practicability of uniting the Lakes with the
\Vrstr-jp v.aters. see J'r. Galiatin's Report, and Beaujours Trav-
els in the United States.

15

Wrongest considerations thaf ever influenced a political bodV
-•—assimilated in manners, laws, sentiments and maxims, with
their eves fixed on their connexion with the seaboard, as the
life and support of their prosperity and happiness. Yes, in
this noble race of citizens, we see the cradle of liberty, laws,
and the arts ; we see the hallowed light of our liberal insti-
tutions beaming in its native purity, blended witbjLtre mild
lustre of virtue, magnanimity and intelligence. s'

In a commercial point of view, the results and benefits of
the Canal cap^carcely be estimated, at this early stage of
our history^jThe first advantage to be derived from its
cornpletioiff is a national one— the diversion of a growing and
importsmt trade from Great Britain to ourselves// Mr. We s- we
ton, the celebrated Engineer, well observed in s/letter to the ^
Canal Commissioners some years ago, <• that should the no-la*ge>
ble plan of uniting Lake Erie with the Hudson be carried
into effect, we could fear no rivalry, and the commerce of
the enormous extent of country, bordering on the upper
Lakes, would be ours forever ; and to such an incalculable
amount, as would baffle all conjecture to conceive." Even
the country which is immediately interested in the Canal,
%vill produce more from the richness of its soil, than all tho
Atlantic states put together. Its extent and fertility, war-
ranted the Canal Commissioners in making this assertion
some years ago. But two outlets remain for this produce :.
the one down the Lakes to the St. Lawrence — the other, un-
der the present circumstances, by laborious land carriage io
Albimy, and from thence down the Hudson to Xew-York.
\Vhat is the effect ? Why, that a branch of the most profita-
ble trade, flows to a British market, and enriches our natu-
ral enemy, the arrogant usurper, that would domineer over
the whole world. What policy is England pursuing with
her \orth American colonies ? A policy whose end is to
reader th'Mii formidable to us in a commercial point of view.
Il<*ri"e we see her totally departing from the ordinary rigors
and oppressions of her general colonial policy, In her gov-

-t-V-nmcnt of the Canadas. Their taxes are light, their laws
liberal, their privileges comparatively numerous, and the ex*
IMMICCS of the government have heretofore, at some periods,
been a tax to the British Treasury. We must remember
that the Canadas contain more square miles than our five
largest states, and can sustain a great, hardy and formidable
population, as much so as the population of the north of
Europe. Dr. Franklin, when examined at the bar ot the
British House of Commons, previous to the revolution, cal-
led them a " vast country." It will be the policy of the1
British Cabinet, to increase their population to the utmost
extent of her power. It has been frequently avowed in the
British Ministerial Gazettes and Journals, since the late war,
that the North American Colonies should be fostered and
protected, as a check upon the alarming; commercial great-
ness of the United States, feven the colonial governments*
have gone so far as to express their alarm, through their
official papers, of the New-York state government : nay,
they have gone further, and are actually engaged in coun-
teracting our policy, by making a canal of no small impor-
tance, at the present moment, which may sensibly affect our
northern trade. What immense quantities of produce would
find their way to Montreal in the course of another genera-
tion, without any countervailing diversion on our part, no
"mind can estimate ; but enough is seen, to hold out the most
imperious obligations to the government and people of the
United States, to divert and command this trade. No one
can hesitate to say what course it will take, when the Great
Western Canal shall be finished.* The Canal Commission-
ers in 1812, in answer to the doubts expressed by the gov-
ernment of Michigan Territory, in relation to the policy of

* We understand that a \vorkof400 pages is. now in the press,
to prove that the Western Canal should be abandoned, for a Ca-
nal around Niagara Falls, and that this advocate for a trade with
Montreal is an American Citizen !

suiting our Canal in its present direct ion, made it fully ev>
dent by the iiwst irresistible and conclusive pi-oofs, that it
woukl be far cheaper to take produce to New- York than to
Montreal, ou the completion of the Canal, even were there
a Canal cut round the tremendous cataract of Niagara,
which we think willYiot shortly be done : but more than this,
U will be even cheaper to take produce from above the Falls
to New- York, than from Lewistown below the Falls, to Mon-
treal. As it now is, and probably ever will be, the portage
round the Falls, from one Lake to the other, must prove a
formidable tax, even leaving out the difference of risk in go-
ing to the British, instead of the New-Y'ork market. flhe
Fur trade which we shall command by uutan* of the Canal,
will prove of no minor consequence r/^md in fact, such are
the incalculable and stupendous cornmercial advantages,
which our project promises fair to secure, that we need «ot
endeavor to render them more palpable. The import and
export trade of New-York, through this great channel, will
hereafter astonish the nation and the world. M

/jfhe importance of opening a home market for produce,
when we take into view the interests of agriculture, is strik-
ingly important. Agriculture flourishes, in proportion to
the encouragement it receives from consumption, and ready
demand in the marked. Home markets are greatly prefera-
ble to those of a foreign description, being secure from the
fluctuations and inconstancy, which more or less, pertain to
those distant resorts for the sale of our surplus productions. //
There is but little inducement to make improvements in thiy
most essential of all branches of industry, if the distance
and uncertainty of the market, creates an expense that ab-
sorbs the profits of labor. We have before referred to the
doctrine of great political economists, where they lay down
the advantages which result from encouraging the cultivation
of the remote parts of a country, by facilitating and accom-
plishing the means of an easy and safe communication with

18

, - v , .

Jarge cities. The correctness of their ideas are abundantly
proved by their application to the great westeru country,
that borders on the Lakes. There are (hose too who be-
lieve, with strong and prominent reasons for their faith, that
the western country is yet to contain rich and extensive man-
ufacturing establishments. Although it was a wilderness
when Volney travelled through our country, yet he called it
the Flanders of America, and foretold its future greatness
as a manufacturing country. Should these predictions ever
prove true, ourcunal will present a channel through which
a great proportion of the fruits of this species of industry,
and application of capital, can be wafted with ease and ce~
lerity to that rich mart of commerce, that will afford them
a ready market. The abundance of coal which is supposed
to lie in the vicinity of the lakes and the successful experi-
mcjit which has been made in different kinds of manufactures
at Pittshurg, by the application of steam, favors the sound-
ness of these anticipations.

Our public lands have heretofore occupied no inconsidera-
ble space, in the estimation of the national government. — •
Two considerations arc intimately connected with them; —
iirst, the pecuniary advantages to be derived to the nation
from their sale ; and secondly, the extent and character of
the population which is to inhabit them. Both of these
considerations will be materially affected by the western ca-
nal. It is a well authenticated fact, that tinder present cir-
cumstances, the national government labors under much dis-
appointment* in relation to the expected revenue to be deri-
ved from the sale of these national domains. During the
last session of Congress, a resolution was passed appointing
a committee to enquire into the expediency of raising the
price of public lands. The following is a part of the re-
port which they submitted : — " Indeed the eommiftee feel
somewhat apprehensive, that the United States, so far from
being enabled to increase, will find themselves compelled to
lessen the price of public lands, or to forego the golden

19

tit cams tliev indulge in, of enormous revenue to arise from
(heir sale, It will be recollected by the house, that hereto-
fore, (he puhlfc has been the monopolist of land — that not-
withstanding this advantage, not more than eight or nine
millions of acres have been sold, for a sum less than
19,000,000 of dollars, and that too during a space of 18 or
20 years."* This is enough to sho\\ that the public lands
are not productive of that pecuniary advantage, which was
once expected. In relation to this subject, therefore, the
Canal must be viewed with much interest. It has even been
estimated by very discerning calculators, that should the na-
tional government, make the whole Canal from the Hudson
to the Lakes, at an expense of five millions of dolia: 9
the rise which it would produce in the sale of public lands,
must remunerate the disbursements of tin nation in ten or
fifteen years. This estimate, in all probability, is very
nearly correct. Certain it is, that their value must depend
upon a disposition to settle them ; and they must be settled
and reclaimed from a wilderness slate, by emigrants from
the eastern section of our union, and other thick settled parts
of the country. \Vhat are now the greatest objections to
taking up and inhabiting these public lands ? The.. difficul-
ties and expense of emigration and the want of a ready
aiarket for surplus produce. Remove these objections, and
the stream of emigration would be broad, deep awl constant,
as that great and majestic flood, sent forth from the Lakes,
w hose borders it would people. Towns, villages and cities
would spring up, and emerge from the bosom of the wilder-
ness, as though the soil was smitten by some potent and crea-
tive hand of enchantment. \Ve know of no operation, in the
scope of either state or national government, that ceuld
open so ready and so wide a door to national wealth and na-
tional strength. The character of the emigrants too will be
much improved by our canal. A great proportion of the.

* Vide Report of Committee, Jan. 5, 1818.

20

populatiort which has poured into the western country for
the last few years, has been honest, enterprising, hut needy,
and forced upon adventure hy necessity. Their object has
been, subsistence and comfort for their numerous families.
But when ready markets, with easy and regular transporta-
tion are opened to these countries, men of capital and men
too of high standing, as agriculturists, will be induced to
leave an old for a new ami more genial soil. Foreign emi-
grants of large fortunes, will also be induced to cast a fa-
vorable eye on these tempting territories. It is now, that
great capitalists begin to think of abandoning the troubled
shores of the old world, to invest their property and reasr
their families in the new. The vicinity of the Lakes has al-
ready attracted many foreigners of this valuable descrip-
tion.

The late war with Great Britain, as well as the present
war with the Seminole Indians, sufficiently proves, without
going further back into our history, that we have nothing i&
expect from these savage tribes but eontinual depredation,
while hanging on our borders, with feelings of jealousy and
revenge, and ready to rush on murder and devastation, at
the beck of England or Spain. Physical force on the fron-
tiers, by means of settlements, which are better than stand-
ing armies, as well as trade and intercourse, must correct
these evils, and remove these dangers from us. Whatever,
therefore, tends to draw and sustain an enterprising popula-
tion on our Lake frontier ; whatever tends to increase oui*
trade with the Indian Tribes, tends to our peace and securi-
ty. And is the civilization of the Savages nothing, which
must follow this state of things ? Is it of no importance to
redeem these unfortunate beings from that unhappy state of
moral and intellectual degradation, which pertains to their
ordinary condition ? Constant intercourse can alone elevate
to a more tolerable standing, their present depressed char-
acter. It is this alone which can subdue the wild and un-
checked propensities of the savage soul, and mould it to the

dictates of civil restraint, and the precepts of morality. Il-
lumine their cabins and irradiate their haunts with the mild
and gladdening beams of civilization, and we shall no longer
find the abodes of domestic tranquillity roused to terror by
the soul chilling war-whoop, or families falling victims to
sanguinary massacre. We ought not here to forbear men-
tion ing, by May of illustration, (hat a tribe of Indians in our
own state, have been so far reclaimed by intercourse and ex-
ample, as recently to have even instituted among them, a so-
ciciy for agricultural improvement. When the Western
Canal shall be opened, and a vast and vigorous commerce
carried on through the Lakes, fed by the territories in their
vicinity, we cannot but hope, that great and beneficent e£-
fecis will be extended by these means to our imlir.n neigh-
bors.

Candor enjoins, that in recounting the advantages of ow
undertaking, we should not omit the facilities it will afford,
for (he transportation of every thing of a naval and military
nature* connected with the defence of our extensive frontiers.
We wish not for war with Great Britain ; we wish not fei-
war with any nation, unless wag' d lor future safety, and in
vindication of our national rights. Should the day ever
come, \\hen the interest and policy of the United States and
Great Britain should again clash ; or should that great
crisis ever arrive, when the empire of the maritime work!
shall be decided bv the two nations, and the Lakes again
become the splendid theatre of naval warfare ; we shall nt-1
take it upon ourselves to say \\hat would be the utility of
our Canal, as a medium of transportation. But dismissing
these benefits in perspective, as visionary and romantic, we
must certainly admit that a military force is to be maintain-
ed in conjunction with some naval force, to guard our lake
frontiers, while England holds the Canadas. On the late
debate in Congress, Gen. James Tallmadge, jun. a member
from the state of New-York, shewed, in his usual clear and
luminous manner, the enormous expense of transportation to

22

fhe Lakes, under present circumstances. Ho stated, without
contradiction, that the munitions of war for the armament
on Luke Erie, were sent from the seat of government. The
cost of a cannon at thai place was $400, while the transporta-
tion was from one thousand five hundred to two thousand
dollars per gun ! The delay, too, in transportation, to he also
considered in addition to the expense. He also stated, and
from information derived from the war department, that
while the House was then debating on the expediency of
opening communications, that would lessen the price of
transportation, the Government was paying g!27 per barrel
for pork, to sustain the western garrisons. Gen. Tallmadge
observed, that he spoke within hounds, when he asserted,
that money enough had been wasted during the war, for
want of military roads and canals, to turnpike the whole
western country. If this remark be true, we do not hesitate
to say, that had the Western Canal been completed in 1812,
it would have saved enough to the nation, in the charges of
transportation, to make three such Canals as ours. One of
the late Aids of Gen. Harrison, and now a respectable mem-
ber of the bar of New Orleans, informed us a few week$
since, that it cost the General Government $100, per bar-
rel for flour and $60, per bushel for oats, at Fort Meigs,
during the northwestern campaign, taking into view the
forage for the horses on the way, and the horses that were
lost. In these observations, we say nothing of the time
which was sacrificed to an army engaged in active hostilities*
Is it then of no consequence \yhen viewed in relation to fu-
ture exigencies ?

In young countries, most branches of knowledge keep
pace with necessity. Hie collective industry of the people
is exerted in pursuits, connected with the immediate wants of
community. This is the case with ourselves. \Vecannot
yet afford to strike off into those great ranges of experiment,
which are attended with the consumption of time, labor and
expense, for the acquisition of unproductive knowledge.

Engineers, therefore, for other than military purposes, aie
difficult to be tbunti in our country. The demand \\iil now
he great tor civil Engineers, since a noble spirit tor internal
improvements, by canal navigation, exists in all parts of the
union. The importance of having able men of this descrip-
tion, is pointed out by every writer on the subject of inland
trade. The want of them has oflen caused the loss of im-
mense sums of money, and defeated many great and practica-
ble projects in the line of their profession. Their qualifications
are extensive, and much time and industry are requisite to
their acquisition. Their mathematical attainments should
be eminent, and their knowledge certain and circumstantial.
Calculations the most abstruse, intricate and laborious, will
be called into application. A good Engineer ought to be
even something beyond this. Various branches of natural
philosophy, especially that of mechanics, should come un-
der his investigation. He should understand the principles
and practice of drawing ; be conversant with the history of
Canals ; the writings of all former Engineers; the various
causes and operations of trade and commerce, and under-
stand mineralogy and the science of agriculture. A Canal
of more than three hundred miles in length, must necessa-
rily bring into requisition a mass of talent and experience,
that will prove a national advantage. Some of our Engi-
neers are already highly accomplished in their profession,
and bid fair to hold a proud comparison with the most cele-
brated men of the same profession in Europe. The nation
tit large will have a claim upon their services, and no doubt
receive them when demanded.

If it creates surprise, that any one should look to the
Western Canal for acquisitions and advancement in natural
history, that surprise, upon reflection, must cease in all can-
did minds. \Ve must recollect, that in relation to this sci-
ence, our country, is yet. comparatively speaking, unexplo-
red, and presents the noblest theatre to the mineralogist,
Oiat ever attracted the enterprise of genius or the pefseve-

24

ian«e of industry. The country from the Hndson to the
Lakes is possessed of the richest mineral treasures. That
the range of the Canal will lay open the most important
discoveries, we feel warranted in asserting ; we can even
appeal to present facts, without trusting to anticipation. In
<he town of Manlius, in the county of Onomlago, two large
bods of gypsum have already been laid open, by the excava-
tions of the Canal. As soon as the middle section shall be
finished, this gypsum can be afforded at Albany for about
live dollars per ton, according to the estimation of intelli-
gent men. Immense quantities of this article are now
brought from Nova Scotia to the port of New-York, and
carried up the Hudson River. This importation will soon be
resigned for the gypsum found in our own soil. What other
discoveries may yet be made, time will soon reveal. The
one alluded to is of no minor importance. And lastly, in.
(he train of these considerations, permit us to ask with be-
coming deference, if the munificence and enterprize of New-
York, in undertaking a work to connect the Hudson with
(he Lakes, at an expense of five millions of dollars, has
done nothing to rouse the slumbering energies of other states
*o' their own internal improvements ? We claim neither
respect nor praise in making this appeal ; but we do say with
an assurance, that time and experience amply fortify, that
stupendous projects, and vast undertakings in the policy of
states and nations, lean upon and sustain each other by a kind
of political sympathy. Human enterprise exists deep in the
soul, and waits but for objects and occasion to call it forth. —
When once directed to great ends, it seldom pauses until it
erects to itself imperishable monuments, to mark the theatre
and extent of its operations. When once a spirit of useful
improvement, in any great branch of industry takes fire
among a liberal and powerful people, it strikes out a bold,
energetic and enlightened policy, that leaves its features on
the history of the age. Look around among the states of the
union : — Where is there a member of the confederacy that

25

tltses not lurn \vilh anxiety to the developement of its internal
strength ? Where is there a liberal, high-minded state, that
Lus not referred in language of praise, to the enterprize and
liberality of the state of New-York ? Pennsylvania is as-
suming an attitude suitable to her great strength, and seems
deeply sensible of her interests. Virginia, Kentucky and
Massachusetts, are putting forth -their resources. Almost
every state in the union has some favorite plan of inland
navigation ; and even some of our new states and territories
l)egin to look at their rivers, and wish to see their waters
blended by Canals, their -distant boundaries approximated by
intercourse, and to dream of the golden fruits of internal
trade. These feelings spread through our uniou, as far as
our eagle bends her circuit or hovers over her empire. Well
may our sisters of the confederacy say, if New-York tinder-
takes a Canal of more than three hundred miles* at an esti-
mate of five millions, shall we remain inactive, and suffer aft
incubus to fasten upon our energies ? Shall we suffer our
years to waste away, our ambition to sleep in the sha<le, and
eur natural resources remain unimproved? No! other
states feel like New-York, and reciprocate the spirit of lib-
erality and enterprise, which she is proud to cherish and
i'ojwrfrate to admiring nations.

he advantages which must result, immediately to the state
«f New-York, from the Great Western Canal, besides those
heretofore generally pointed out, will flow from tv/o sources — ge/of "the
First, from the artificial mill seats which the surplus waters
of the Canal will create, and the numerous hydraulic Uses to
which they may be applied* It is proposed not to convey
these privileges in perpetuity, but merely lease them, that
their increase in profit and advantage may result to the state*
Secondly, from the tolls and transit duties upon vessels and
cargoes, in ascending and descending the CanaJ^V

The extent and magnitude of the advantages to be deri-
ved from the first of these sources, must depend upon

I)

iitious circumstances, and will not permit any thing like a
definite calculation in dollars and cents. They have been
found of much importance in Europe, and will unquestiona-
bly subserve many important ends in this country. The
benefits to he derived from the second, deserves a more par-
ticular notice.

Shortly previous to the death of the ingenious and lamen-
ted Ful?on, to whom the nation and the world owe eternal
obligations of gratitude and respect, he made some enqui-
ries, and gave some interesting data on the subject now un-
der consideration. From examining the custom-house books,
he calculated that 400,000 tons of freight were annually
carried on the Hudson, although it is probable that the
amount is now considerably greater. From the comparison
which these data afford, between the country trading on the
Hudson, and the immense country which must send her pro-
ductions, and receive her supplies through the Canal — he
came to the conclusion, that 1,000,000 of tons would be an-
nually transported on it between Buffalo and Albany. The
expense of transporting a ton over the distance between Al-
bany and Lake Erie, by land, is now glOO — the expense of
transportinga ton the same distance, through the canal, will be
$S 53, allowing $3 53 for transportation, and $5 per ton for
toll. Taking Mr. Fulton's calculation to be correct, and allow
the annual transportation of this 1,000,000 ot tons by land at
BLOO per ton, it would shew us a yearly expense of 100,000,-
000 of dollars for bare transportation. The transportation of
the same quantity through the Canal, would be 88,430,000
making an aggregate difference of $91,430,000, or a differ-
ence of $91 47 on each ton ! In these calculations, we
must not forget the time that would be turned to unproduc-
tive labor in the land transportation. This difference in the
transportation would be added to the price of the commodi-
ties and merchandize transported, and operate with perni-
cious offsets, and levey a burthensome tax upon community.
we shall b« told that this reasoning is idle and vision-

27

ary ; that not one half ef this 1,000,000 of tons, would ever
be curried over this extensive distance by laud. This we
sincerely believe — perhaps not a third of the quantity would
ever he thus transported. And \\ity ? Because of t,,c
monstrous expens'- of land transportation. No — wilhou die
>\ « stern Canal, a great proportion of this 1,000,000 tons
would pass through the St. Lawrence, and teed the treasury,
and nerve the energies oi* old England. — There must be an
outlet lo the productions of that fertile and vast country,
reposing on our inland seas ; and there must he an inlei for
the articles of merchandize which it wants. "Without the
Western Canal, they will be monopolized in a great meas-
ure by England, and this is one of the most conclusive rea-
sons lor prosecuting our works. "When the Canal shall be
finished, Mr. Fuhoivs calculations will be fully verified.

What could more strongly illustrate this position of Mr,
Phillips, in his History of Inland Navigation, « That all
Canals may lie considered as roads of a certain kind, on
which one horse will draw as much as thirty horses do, on
the ordinary turnpike roads, or on which one man alone will
transport as many goods as three men and eighteen horses
usualh do on common roads. The public would be great
gainers, were I hey to lay out upon the making of every mile
of Canal twenty timts as much as they expend upon making
a uiiie of turnpike road."*= Nor must we here forget Mr.
Fulton's assertion to 31 r. Gallalin, « That on a road of the
IK-SI kind, four horses and sometimes Jive are necessary to
transport only three tons. On a Canal one horse will draw
twenty Jive tons, and thus perform the work of forty horses ;
tht- saving, therefore, is in the value of the horses, their
feeding, shoeing, geer, waggons and attendance."!

Pursuing still further the first data afforded us by Mr.
Fulton, we shall perceive that the annual toll on 1,000,000
of tons, passing through the Canal at £5 per ton, would give

* History of Internal Navigation, Pref. p. 9.

* Letter to Mr. Gtillatin, Dec. 8. 18iT.

28'

911 annual revenue to (lie state of £5.000,000 ; Him
there be more received into the state treasury, in one year,-
than the whole cost of the Canal ? Well may \ve exclaitnr
that in no other way could the state invest her surplus rev-
enue to such an unprecedented profit and advantage. But
admitting for a moment, against our most settled convictions,,
that Mr. Fulton's calculation, and the calculations of the
commissioners and engineers at a subsequent period, are too
extravagant ; it is certainly rather indecorously detracting
from their credit and reputation, as men of abilities and cor-
rectness, to reject one half of (heir computations as errone-
ous, and say. for tlie sake of argument, that instead of
1,000,000 of tons, halt" the quantity, 500,000 tons should
pass through the Canal — this would, still give the state
$2,500,000. But advance aslep further, and condescend to
apply the principle of subtraction so far, as to reduce the
number of tons passing the Canal yearly to 400,000, the
number of tons passing on the Hudson at the time of Mr.
Fulton ; then it still leaves an annual revenue of S2,000,000»
So turn the calculations as you will, garble, deduct, ami
equivocate as you please, and still the estimated revenue
wears an astonishing magnitude. But 5,000,000 of annual
income to the state is rather too moderate than too high air
estimate. Leaving the name and authority of Fulton out of
the question, whose calculations are quoted, in relation to
Canals, by every great writer in Europe, and set down a&
scrupulously orthodox — leaving him entirely out of consid-
eration, we ought not to forget that in all calculations con-
eerning the future grandeur and resources of our country,
we rather fall below than transcend the true degree ; for*
in the words of the illustrious Burke, " e«r growth outstrips
the ordinary grasp of huuvan anticipation."

The extreme moderation of the Commissioners, in setting
the (oil at g5 per ton, deserves remark, and goes far to for-
tify the correctness of their estimates. It will be recolleet-
ed, that one hundred miles of lock navigation was opened

seme years pgo, between Albany and Utica. i*v flic "We *fen»
Inland Navigation CoiK/.iiiiy. The rate of (oil charged for
tins one hundred n.iK^s, has been S5 20 per (on : even more
than is calculated lt» I.»o !»kc;i for (he whole 3."»3 mites oC the
Western Cannl ; nor do we know (hat (l)is fate of &5 20 has
ever beeii a matter of reprehension and complaint. This il~
lustration is conclusive.

l»ut more completely to (ear the scales from (he eye ef
prejudice, let us take another view of the subject. The
present annual receipts of our state treasury, are nearly omr
million of dollars : our expenditures little rising of half flu-
sum ; leaving a surplus of between four ai,d five hundred
thousand dollars for extraordinary purposes. Now, let us-
suppose, a* we rationally can, that the receipts and the dis-
bursements of (he treasury, will continue to preserve the
:>auic proportion ; and (hen, also suppose, that barely om
single dollar per ton should be charged «s Canal toll, from
Lakes to Albany ; this would pay for the Canal in U :
than five years, and leave an animal surplus of twelve OF
fifteen hundred thousand dollars t» (lie use of UHJ state, for
the promotion of other internal impravcnients, after thac
period. Five dollars per ton, however, is the probable (oil
that will be taken. This gives a transportation unrivalled
for its cheapness, and will enable us to grasp at the whole
trade of the Lakes.

The calculations heretofore made in relation to the Canal?
are neither idle nor delusive. They r:re thus t«r borne ou$
by time and experience, and rest on the broad basis of truth,.
reason and common sense. They are calculations that will
stand, when those who have assailed them, cease to blush,
for blinding their eyes to the light of (ruth, and pass down?
the stream of time, with all other opposcrsof noble schemes
for the promotion of national glory and national happi-

the candid of our own state— let the candid and en
lightened throughout the nation, ponder and reflect on thr

consequences that must flow from the completion of our
grand undertaking. Let them observe the wonderful pro-
gress of the Canal, which we shall soon exhihit, and think
of the streams of wealth that ere long must enrich our pub-
lie eoifersX^XVith an annual revenue of five millions of dol-
lars, uncalled for by any ordinary expense in sustaining the
state government ; while marehiug in the high road of hon-
or and prosperity, under the views and guidance of such men
as now watch over the destinies of our state $ under the
superintending genius of statesmen, whose talents and mag-
nanimity east a lustre over every feature of our policy, and
would even raise a nation from ruins, or redeem her from
misfortune, what can me not expect I "We must confess,
that we do look forward to the glory of our state, as well as
our nation, with no vulgar emotions. \Ve see our future
surplus revenue expended in public improvements, worthy to
stand as the monuments of an enlightened age, and to com-
memorate the actions of a high-minded people. A splendid
•era dawns upon us, and rolls on with rapid celerity, as the
morning sun passes over the mountains and the valleys.—
That the Western Canal will be finished in less than ten
years, is as palpably certain as any human event that de-
pends on human efforts ; and that its completion will afford
a permanent revenue to the state, from four to six millious
of dollars, which can be devoted to other internal improve-
ments, and the encouragement of useful arts, is equally cer-
tain. It must bring payments into our treasury, that will
enable us to connect the navigable waters of our state, by a
system of internal communication, that will rival those of
England and Holland. The immutable htws of nature, the
fiat of the Creator himself, seems to enjoin it. — AVe shall
not stop with the western or northern Canal. It is the
avails of these works that are to perfect the vast chain of
intercourse. Look at England, possessing a sn»ailri terri-
tory than the state ofNew-Yoik; yet she has THK&E
THOUSAND MILES of Canal navigation, and within the last

31

t\venty-ilve years, has expended on Canals aloue, mot'6
than §130,000,000 !# It is by such vigor and liberality at
home, that England holds her Forty Colonies, shakes her
rod over the old world, wields a commerce that encircles
(he two hemispheres, and sends forth her flag to trace the
boundaries of the glohe. Not only do we see the future ex-
pansion of internal trade, in the consequences of our West-
ern Caual, hnt we also see our manufactures springing up
on every side, and gliding along the channels opened for their
diffusion. In the abundance of our pecuniary means, by the
same operation of causes, we perceive the future interests
of agriculture, flourishing under the auspices of our state
administration, robing our fields in the richest garb of lux-
urience, and whitening our hills with the flocks of Andalusia.
And may we not expect, that schools and seminaries for ele-
mentary education will lie founded, and patronized with a
proud liberality, that intelligent e, the soul of liberty and in-
dependence, may spread through every grade and rank of
society, until it shall even reach the poor savage tribes who
live within oar borders, and acknowledge the empire of our
laws ? Benevolent and humane institutions, to ameliorate
the condition of the unfortunate, and smooth the rugged
paths of life, will be called into existence by the parental
voice of public authority. Nor will the arts aod sciences
he forgotten. The New-York State Government has long
been distinguished for noble instances of favor and encour-
agement to the useful sciences, and to the fine arts. Sur-
plus millions will not extinguish this honorable spirit of am-
bition. It was public encouragement, combined with the
irresistible movements of popular pride and enthusiasm,
that carried the Athenian Republic to the summit of her
fame in the days of her Pericles, and rendered Florence the
torch of a benighted world, under the government of her
Medici. It is patronage and public favor, that invigorates

* Vide SutclmVs Treatise on Canals, &c. p. 75,

tjuipkens -the all-searching energies of hmnan inquiry
and investigation — that sharpens the ken of philosopliy-^--
that calls the Muses from heaven (o earth, ami gives them
their groves, their fountains, their votaries. It is in fine,
such enceurageitient as the New-York State Government
will soon be enabled to extend, that elicits the loftiest efforts
*>f genius, and renders a Republic immortal, by weaving the
memory of her achievements, with the transcendant produc-
tions of her great «ml illustrious men.

\Vhite referring to the advantages resulting to the nation,

and to the state, from the Western Canal, we ought not to

forget its effects on tire prosperity of our own city Her

natural advantages for extensive commerce, are far greater

than we ourselves appear willing to believe. By na*

ture, she is the depot of four states, including our own ; and

A<Jvan(a .the great Canal is rendering her the emporium of a country

XpS of the at the west, of itself sufficient to form an empire. Com-

Caoaltothe , . , . .

city of. New pared with other leading commercial cities, on our continent,
New- York, ia many important poiats, stands even destitute
of rivalship. New Orleans, although destined for a mighty
mart of trade, must struggle with a combination of difficul-
ties, that centuries cannot remove. Industry, enterprize and
liberality, will raise around her ten thousand monuments of
commercial grandeur ; yet will the formidable obstacles to
her prosperity, erected by the fiat of creation, stand by their
side, and sustain a forbidding contrast. Salubrity of climate,
and healthiness of situation, are important requisites to a
great commercial city. The dangers which all emigrants,
and even natives, must encounter at New Orleans, will mate-
rially diminish her other physical advantages. Besides this,
she stands one hundred and twenty miles from the mouth of
the Mississippi, whose channel is filled with many serious
obstructions, from the peculiar nature of the alluvial soil
through which it passes. -The rise of the tide affords few
or no facilities to an ascending navigation; and the singular
bead ia the river, called the English. Turn, sometimes ope-

33

rates as a detention often, fifteen, and twenty days, to vessels
passing up to New Orleans. In fact, the entry from the
ocean, into any great place of trade, which is liable to con-
sume twenty, thirty, and even sixty days in its passage, must
hold a cheek over the prospects of any commercial city.
If we turn to Montreal, who pretends to hold a competition
with New-York for the trade of the Lakes, we shall here
find a city nearly five hundred miles from the ocean, situated
on the coM and inclement borders of a vast continent, and
locked up from the commercial world, for more than one
half of the year, by the freezing over of the St. Lawrence.
An ascending navigation from the mouth of the St. Law-
rence te Quebec or Montreal, must always be long, tedious,
and often attended with difficulty. Montreal has even drawn
her supplies of merchandize, to a considerable extent,
through the city of New-York, for some winters past ; and
the Northern Canal from the Hudson to Champlain, will in-
crease this reliance upon American importations, which can
always pass through New-York to Canada, under the priv-
ilege of a drawback on the duties paid to our Custom
House. Philadelphia too, must compete with some strong
natural objections incident to her situation. She stands
nearly one hundred miles up the Delaware, which, like the
St. Lawrence, is closed for several months in the year, and
insulates this commercial capital from the maritime world.
Viewed in relation to the natural advantages of the other
great trading capitals of the American continent, not to
make invidious comparisons between ourselves and our sister
cities, in whose prosperity we feel a deep interest, New-York
must hold a proud if not a pre-eminent rank. The ranges
of human discovery cannot shew the scite of a commercial
city, presenting a greater number of physical advantages, if
we consider human life in all the bearings, which local posi-
tion can affect and influence. We have a harbor, capacious,
secure, and open at all times of the year to vessels of the

E

34

largest burden. Resting on the shore of the ocean, we have
only to lift our banner and spread our canvass, and we find
the broad bosom of the deep. The superiority of our situa-
tion is subject to no ordinary changes of nature ; it is perma-
nent as the constitution of the universe. These are our ad-
vantages on the side of the seaboard. When we turn to the
interior, our favorable attitude for extensive commerce, is
still more apparent. Our noble river opens a tide naviga-
tion of one hundred and sixty miles into the heart of the
state. At the termination of this natural facility to trade,
we have a country that admits of nearly four hundred miles
of canal navigation, which connects the city of New-York
with 17,00 miles of Lake coast, in our own territory,
opens to us our whole western world, besides affording a
communication by artificial means, with the waters of the
north. Owing to these circumstances, we must ever com-
mand nearly the whole trade of New Jersey, Connecticut
and Vermont ; by a communication with Montreal, through
the Northern Canal, attract a portion of the trade of Lower
Canada, above that place ; and by the Western Canal, lay
the foundation of a commercial greatness, whose future
magnitude must surpass calculation, when made under the
influence of appearances and objects that now surround us.
By this improvement, New-York must, according to the
most sober and rational calculation, draw to herself the trade
of a country, containing a sufficient number of square miles
to sustain fifty millions cf people, if we take the population
which France and England give to each square mile, as a
rule of computation. We shall have the commerce of a
country whose salubrity of climate, and richness of soil,
would even support the clustered population of Italy. When
this immense trade, like the fertilizing floods of the Nile,
shall roll down the channels which nature and art will have
formed for its passage, and when the returning equivalent
which it will demand, shall seek the same course, to reward
the toils of industry, it is not for us to say, what will be
the future extent of our city. In enterprizc, wealtli, popu-

35

iatioii and splendor, she will stand the London of America —
a monument of magnificence, worthy to attract and com*
in and the wondering admiration of the world. If at this
day, we cannot lift our minds, and expand our views to the
contemplation of this era, at no great distance from us ; let
us at least make those efforts to produce it, that may vindi-
cate our character from a disgraceful lethargy, in the eyes
of other generations, when it shall arrive. It is by aiding
the State Government, in every liberal undertaking, for the
promotion of internal commerce, and agriculture, that New-
York is to become a commercial emporium, second to none
on the globe. Nature has willed it; let not man trifle with
her mighty designs.

The great roads and water communications which can here-
after be connected with the Western Canal, in our own stale,
will we hope, at a future period, be circumstancially descri-
bed, by apian, already devised to accomplish the object. — naih !!!*<«»
For the present, it may be remarked, that the country own State.
through which the Canal will pass, is capable of affording a
system of communication, reaching the line, from the north
and south side, of incalculable importance. A union be-
tween Lake Ontario and the Western Canal, could be effect-
ed at various places. They might be connected by the Nia-
gara, Genesee, and Seneca Rivers. It is practicable to re-
move the impediments incident to the navigation of these
streams, and render them important channels of trade. On
the south side of the canal line, the Genesee river drains a
large tract of country, and would afford an easy transporta-
tion to the place of its intersection. Seneca and Cayuga
Lakes, owing to their singular and extended shape and di-
rection from north to south, together with the streams that
supply them, may be considered as affording important ad-
vantages to the country in their vicinity, and as so many
branches of the great communication, whose importance
they serve to enhance. Our other small Lakes and streams,
including the tributary waters of the Mohawk, will form

36

striking features in our future inland trade. The contem-
plated Canal between Seneca Lake and Tioga river, whtefc
will eonstitue the junction between the Western Canal and
the Susquehannalu presents an improvement that import*
weighty consequences to the States of New -York and Penn-
sylvania. It will immediately give rise to a profitable trade
in the articles of salt, gypsum, coal and iron. An infinite
uuinber of great roads, leading to the Canal, could be easily
made. One leading from the Canal line at Seneca, to Ham-
ilton, on the Allegany branch of the Ohio, would alone
prove of immense importance, especially to the hundreds ofif
thousands who are now emigrating to the western country*
It would also open an important and direct trade between
New-York and Pittsburg, even if the Canal should be advan-
ced no farther then the present contracts stipulate. Anoth-
er great road from the same point on the Allegany river to
Buffalo, at the termination of the Canal, would afford re-
sults of essential magnitude. With the road from Genesee
to the Allegany river, you could easily open another roatl
that should oass round the heads of Crooked, Cayuga, and
Seneca Lakes, and reach the Ithica turnpike, that run:?
from the head of Seneca Lake to tbe north-east branch of
the Susquehannah — thus striking out with a minor exertion
of our ability as a state, a chain of communication, that
would meet the wants of a growing portion of our country.
As we pass east of the Seneca Lake to the Hudson, we find
a great tract of territory spreading out, with important posts,
which could be easily connected, to extend, increase and in-
vigorate our inland commerce. Many important roads are
already made, and many more will soon be opened and com-
pleted. In fact we know not our own state, nor shall we
know its resources, until our present policy, springing from
enlarged and liberal views, and supported by the energies of an
enlightened community, consummates the astonishing work
which it has begun, with boldness and success.

3?

These are our views. Gangrene is the heart that cannot
reciprocate — mean the soul that cannot feel them !

Having pointed out some of the prominent advantages
which must result from the Western Canal, we shall give a
view of its present state and progress. We shall speak
from facts, in relation to the advancement of the works
which are drawn from authentic sources.

When the Western Canal was first seriously contemplated*
as a practicable ohject, two considerations naturally arose
in the minds of its projectors — the DISTANCE and the EX-
TENSE. On these two suhjects, much was said and written.
Those who were too weak, or too prejudiced to perceive the
grandeur and utility of the design, maintained the doctrine
with a zeal that might have honored even a good cause, that
the obstacles connected with these two formidable barriers
were insurmountable ; that the making of three or four
hundred miles of Canal, would even baffle (he whole col-
lective energies of the nation, at this early stage of our his-
tory. Twenty millions of dollars was the round sum fre-
quently set down as the probable cost. It was said, that
none but a powerful empire, with a surplus population and
overflowing wealth, should dream of such vast schemes. —
Limited means and paucity of numbers were instanced, as
unanswerable arguments, to consign over the execution of
tliis grand and magnilicent plan of internal trade, to some
distant age of our republic. Yes — this was the reasoning
of the day ; although this same Western Canal, once so indi-
cative of folly and romance, is now held up by the same hos-
tile few» as a project to catch popular favor, to subserve in-
dividual elevation and aggrandizement. Such are the con-
flicting absurdities of prejudice ; such the prevarications of
litlle minds when struggling to defeat great ends !

The board of commissioners, to whom the legislature en-
trusted the superintendance of the work, was composed ot
some of the first statesmen in our country, combined with
practical men in affairs oi internal navigation, who held the

highest rank in their profession. With coolness and delibe-
ration, they explored the route with every circumstance of
requisite minuteness ; they laid off the three great sections,
made every necessary calculation, and placed their views
lie fore the legislature and the public. In relation to esti-
mates of the expense, a punctilious regard was paid to cor-
rectness. And what was the result of their observations
and estimates ? Why, that with regard to the expense and
practicability of making the Canal, for the whole distance
of the route, not a solitary doubt could rationally exist. —
They found the soil and face of the country possessing pro-
perties and features peculiarly favorable ; and the details of
expense, when combined in one general calculation, fell be-
low their anticipations.

In reference to the disbursements necessary to complete
the Canal, no doubt now remains — the question is settled.
And indeed, no candid and discerning man, who ever knew
and had studied the resources of the state of New-York, en-
tertained the least apprehension on this head, or doubted her
Finance? capacity to make two such Canals, in the same space of time
ltc allowed for the one in contemplation. We do not hesitate to
say, that New-York could now raise more ready money in a
given time, than the whole United Stales, at the organization
of our national government. The last war proved some-
thing like a test to her wealth and power, when at the dark-
est hour of our perils, she stepped forth, and nobly sustain-
ed the sinking credit of the nation. Let her come forward
now and pledge her faith, and twenty millions of dollars
•would be at her command. It was never contemplated to
lay any direct taxes to advance and accomplish the Canal.
Certain taxes, which have, or might come into the treasury,
in the ordinary course of things, have been relied upon. It
has been rather the setting apart of certain taxes as a per-
manent sinking fund, upon the strength of which loans are
to be obtained, redeemable at a distant period, with a semi-
annual payment of interest, than any increase of publie

39

burthens. The taxes are light and equitable, and hav-e
come regularly into the treasury of the state* No difficulty
is or can he experienced on this ground. As for loans, we
have hut to ask and receive. The state has only to open her
hooks, and eight times the sum demanded is offered. The
manner in which the late canal lean of 8250,000 was taken
np, will reflect all the light on this part of our subject, that
the most fastidious and sceptical could demand. Notice
having been given, that proposals would he received at the
comptroller's office, to take up the loan of S250,000, to
bear six per cent interest, the following v, ere the proposals
sent in : —

New-York State Bank, 10* 52.

Utica do. 103 C2.

Ontario do. 103 50.

\Vm. Edgar, jun. esq. 103 18 pr. ct.

T. Fowler, esq. 103 18 pr. ct. Loans*

Mechanics' & Farmers' Bank, 103 pr. ct.

Messrs. Le Roy, Bayard & Co. and Messrs. Prime*
Ward & Sands, 102 | pr. ct.

S. Flewwelling, esq. 102 | pr. ct.

The State Bank being the highest bidder, of course took
the loan.

AVhat do these proposals shew ? Plainly and simply, that
the public securities of the state, for the payment of Canal
loans, are more than 41-2 per cent above par — or to speak
in other words, for every one hundred dollars of public se-
curity, bearing an interest of six per cent, one hundred anil
four dollars and fifty cents are given. Thus, for the PRIVI-
LEGE of holding the security of the state, for the sum of
8250,000, the New-York State Bank comes forward and
gives the sum of gll,250. The state makes itself liable to
•pay to the State Bank, at a future day, S250.000, with an
interest of six per cent, which is below the legal interest of
the state : For thus making herself liable, she receives, in
ready cash $5261, 250 — an advance nearly sufficient to pay the

interest on the whole loan, for the first year. The state
\vish to obtain by loan this sum of $250,000, and the whole
amount of the offers made to take this sum up, leaving out
the advance, is $2,090,000. Now, should the state offer
security for this whole amount, bearing six percent interest,
the offer would be immediately embraced, and two millions
of dollars be ready for the Canal works. Those who are
conversant in stocks and money concerns, will pardon us for
this minuteness in explanation ; we do it to suit the most
simple comprehension, not to instruct those, to whose supe-
rior knowledge we should bow with deference.

In the teeth of these facts, will any man, or any body of
men, still absurdly contend that New- York is not capable,
in point of financial resources, to connect the Hudson with
the Lakes ? Shall a state, which in wealth and power is an
empire of herself, shrink from five millions of dollars, when
she can raise it by lifting her hand ? The amount of capi-
tal invested in buildings, going up this very summer in the
City of New- York, is more than enough to make the Grand
Canal. The yearly interest which the Canal Commission-
ers required the state to pay, on the whole Canal loan, was
$27<X,000. The single City of New- York this year, pays
an extra tax, assessed by the Corporation of $250,000
for her own improvements, coming near to the full amount
which the whole state is to furnish. Let us hear no more
on this head. It is but insulting a state like ours, to doubt
her means to connect her own waters at an expense that
bears so little proportion to her ability. New-York neither
asks nor will receive any aid beyond her own boundaries.
There was a day when she thought that the national govern-
ment would see the policy of taking up this great Canal, as a
national work. That matter is now at rest. New-York has
reason to be proud and rejoice, that she of herself has com-
menced the undertaking, and is able to finish it. She knows
her strength, and she knows also how to apply it. If on the
constitutional question, involving the appropriation of money

41

fry the National government, to open Roads anil Canals, Shfc
has felt a zeal and warmth ; k has not been for herself
alone but for other states, less rieh in population and wealth,
If her statesmen have felt with the Clays and Baldwins of
the west, and the Lowndeses, the Tuckers and the Calhouns
oY the south ,• they have felt for the grandeur of the nation,
not for the treasury of their own state, which is amply
competent to every exigency of our policy, however bold and
munificent. Every doubt in relation to the EXPENSE of
making the Western Canal is now removed, and removed
ibrcver, if indeed any heretofore really existed.

The distance over which the Canal is to pass, and the im-
pediments supposed to be connected with it, next deserve
consideration.

In undertaking to open three or four hundred miles of
Canal, much previous preparation was necessary. The
New-York Legislature made the first, appropriation for this
object, on the 15th April, 1817. Tile first contract was da-
ted on the 27th June, 1817, although no labor was done un-
til the following 4th of July. Even after the contracts of
were mode, as the contractors found their own implements >iai last se*-

*son.

and tools, some time was requisite for proper arrangements.
Owing therefore to the lateness of the season, and the great
rains which inundated the country, embracing that part of
Hie Canal route for \vhicli the contracts were made, the
progress of the works was much retarded at the beginning.
Fifteen miles of the distance, were however finished the last
season, and many new contracts made 'for the present year.
Considerable sums of money were advanced to the contract-
ors, during the last winter, that they might he better ena-
bled to purchase provisions, and prepare for the commence-
ment of operations at the opening of the spring. Although
rtic progress of the works last season was not astonishingly
•great, yet' it should not escape reflection, that much impor-
tant information was obtained, by the engineers and com-

P

42

inissioners. Some considerable saving in expense \vas alstf
made. la the articles including tools and implements, in
the Canal estimates, there was a saving of S75,000. It was
found that Bridges could he erected for S350, instead of
S5UO each, which was the sum originally fixed upon in the
calculations ; and that grubbing and clearing uncleared land,
could he done for gl^OO, instead of $1500 per mile. These
deductions in the whole length of the Canal, would create
no inconsiderable diminution in the aggregate expenditures j
and should the estimates hereafter be exceeded in other res-
peels, here will he a counterbalance.

The Canal works were resumed early the present season,
and have been prosecuted with an energy and success, that
of Die Ca- have transcended the highest expectations. Even the most
senueason" ar(^ent anl' sanguine have been disappointed. Every cir-
cumstance and result coincides with the former views and
conclusions of the Engineers and Commissioners, excepting
an unexpected ease and facility in advancing the stupendous
design. The Commissioners, very properly, have first un-
dertaken the completion of the MIDDI.E SECTION ; because
the completion of this line, which communicates with the
Mohawk, will afford immediate advantages on its being fin-
ished, and of itself, would stand the greatest work of the
kind in the new world, and rival the Canal of Languedoc.
Nearly four thousand men, with fifteen hundred horses and
cattle, are now vigorously employed on this part of the route.
"We feel warranted in asserting that the whole distance be-
tween Utica and Seneca river, making not far from ninety
miles, will be completed the present season. We believe,
that the toih of December next, the period at which the
present contracts are to be performed, will shew to the
world two hundred and ihirty miles of navigation into the
lioart of our state, by means of this middle section, and the
Mohawk liivcr ; a channel of commercial intercourse, that
traverses one of the noblest countries on the face of the
globe, cultivated by a people unsurpassed for cnterurizc* in-

43

dusfry, and intelligence. This channel too, will soon be
crowded with merchandize, yield an annual revenue to the
state, that will aid us in completing the remaining portion ol*
the Canal, and impart life and vigor to commerce, agricul-
ture, and manufactures. Then will the people begin to feel
the effects of our policy. Then will they see the giant ef-
forts of a single season, animating every species of labor,
bringing the energies of the community into more autive
operation, and greatly enhancing the value of real estate.
Another season will give the people an earnest of that un-
paralleled prosperity that awaits them.

The season thus far, has been peculiarly favorable, and
every opportunity is embraced to improve it. Experience
now fully proves, that the magnitude of the distance, over
which the Canal must pass, no longer presents any discour-
agement. Such is the favorable nature and quality of the
soil, that on the middle section, for sixty miles, between Uti- Favora-
ca and S.ilma, not more than one half mile will want pud-
diingj and even that this half mile *.r ill want it, is proble-
matical. When we consider the expense of puddling in
England and elsewhere, there is much cause to congratulate
ourselves on this important fact. It has also been ascer-
tained, by one or more of the Engineers, that so. few rocks
arid stones, are found on the whole extent of the summit
level, that S^OO \>ill be sufficient to remove every obstacle of
the kind.

A fact worthy of much consideration has also been ascer-
tained, respecting the ice in the Canal, at the opening of the
spring. That part of the Western Canal, which was fin-
is ued last year, was found to be free of ice some two or three
weeks sooner than the waters of the Mohawk River, or
those of Lake Oneida anu Ontario. As this excited some
degree of surprise, enquiries were made touching the same
fact as pertaining to other Canals, and it was found to be
generally, or perhaps universally the case. The Middlesex
Canal, is found to be clear of ice ten days or two weeks

44

sooner than rivers and large bodies of water in the vfc
From the most accurate observations, made by one of the
Engineers, upon tlie general breaking up of tTie waters ib
the neighborhood of the Canal, he came to the conclusion?
that we might uniformly expect that ft would open every
season, two or three weeks sooner than the contiguous bodies*
of water. This is owing to Che numerous small springy
which ooze through the sides of the Canal, as well as to the
warmth of the sott acting upon an extended and narrow sur-
face of ice,

Another circumstance Is worthy of observation. Those
people who have made contracts and performed them, arc
generally anxious to enter into new ones. The Commission-
ers state in their report to the last session of the Legislature,
that many applications had been rejected, on account of the
Contracts. great number received". One of the Engineers has staterfr
tfrat When a section is raid off and subject to contract, that
the Engineers are thronged with applications. In the vil-
lage of Eldridge, wher£ a distance of '15 miles was to be Ie4
out, there were no less than fifteen applicants for the job,
each anxious to undertake to complete it. "What could more
satisfactorily prove, that while the expenses of the Canal
Keep within the estimates of the Commissioners, the people
themselves grow rich by performing the labor ? Every dol-
lar, paid out by the Commissioners, goes into the pockets of
the people, and is retained among ourselves. It is not paid
to the European or te the East Indian manufacturer, to swell
the history of our luxuries ; but it is merely a circulation
of capital in our own community, that enriches individuals,
and through their enterprise, increases the wealth of the
state.

It may afford satisfaction to observe, tTiat the work thu&
far has been faithfully performed, under the immediate eye
of the Engineers. No contracts are paid until the works
are carefully inspected, and found unexceptionable, in poinfc
of execution. Some one of tlie Engineers travels the U

45

under contract, from one extremity to the other, giving arf
vice and correcting errors. Great credit is due to them
for their fidelity, their talents, and unwearied applica-
tion.

Ten years were first allotted as the period necessary, fos
connecting the Hudson with the Lakes. Less then eighteen
months from the commencement of the works, will show us
more than one fourth of the whole Western. Canal in a fin-
ished state, if the present season continues favorable. Mr.
Briggs has already, made considerable progress in laying off"
the EASTERN SECTION, including, the line from Albany to the
middle section ; and no doubt remains, hut that long before
the time shall have expired, which by many was once deem-
ed necessary to complete the middle section alone ; our lvar~
dy yeomanry will have finished both the eastern and middle
sections, and show us their excavations and the embank*
ments, beyond the watrvs of the Genesce ; and thus fin-
ishing the last link in this mighty chain of inland naviga*
tion.*

* The following extract of a letter from one of the first Civil
Engineers in Europe, will shew what sentiments are entertained
of our Great Canal abroad. It is taken from a letter directed to
Gov. CLINTON, President of the BOARD OP CANAL COMMISSION-
ERS, fiom A. KINGBORN, Esq. of North Britain. SIR JOSBPH
BANKS has also recently made inquiries and expressed much ad-
miration of our noble work.

EXTRACT.

" Sf. BOSWELL'S GREEN, \2th April, 1818,
Honored Sir — Sometime ago the right honorable the EARL OF^
BUCHAN, most obligingly put into my hands, the plan, profiles',
reports and estimates of the proposed Inland Navigation, *from
Lake Erie to the Hudson, and from thence to Lake Champlain,
requesting my observations on them.

I have attentively and with much pleasure examined the whole,
and from the particular and minute description of every part of
the line, I have every reason for believing that the, surveys have

46

And are there any who still doubt the practicability
of the Great Western Canal ? Will any one have the pre-
sumption and arrogance to assert, that the people of (he
state of New- York are a weak, effeminate, degraded, race
of beings, incapable of exertion, and destitute of pride, of
energy, of honorable sentiments ? For any one must vir-
tually assert this, who charges them with being unable to ac-
complish their plans of internal improvement. Let it be
remembered, that such is our population, between eighteen
and forty years of age, that if the whole Western Canal
was laid off to-morrow in equal proportions, and a portion
assigned to each man, there would 6e but half a rod for each
individual to complete, in the course of TEN YEAUS ! If we
have arrived at that humiliating stage of degeneracy and in-
dolence, that each one of our citizens between the age of 18
and 40 cannot make or procure to be made, one rod of Canal
in five years* or half a rod in ten years, which shall be 40
feet wide and four feet in width ; then we may as well for-
get our high standing in the union, renounce the glory which
we won at Bridgewater, at Plattsburg and Erie, and take up
the wretched character of the Gentoos, or watch the wax-
ing arid waning of the moon, like the miserable inhabitants
of the Pacific Islands, and prepare for a long and cheerless
life of ignominy and bondage.

The Great Wrestern Canal will be finished. It is the
voice of the people that declares it. If four thousand men
cannot advance the works with sufficient rapidity, eight

been made with due attention, and that the choice of the ground
ihas been well considered.

In regard to the estimate of the expense, and the calculation
of the probable amount of the products which may be conveyed
on thjp Canals, and from which must arise the remuneration to
the state, I am incompetent to judge — but from the very lumin-
ous and distinct reports of the Canal Commissioners, of i5th
February, and of the joint committee of the Legislature of New-
York, dated 1 9th March, 18 17, I cannot think these gentlemen
at all too sanguine in their expectations 011 this part of the sub-
ject."

47

Uiousand can. If 5,000,000 of dollars cannot deiray <h«
expenditures, £16,000,000 will. The state of New-York
will never rest, till she sees the waters of the Lakes mingle
with the ocean that washes her coasts. Her interest, her
pride, her glory demand it. Her faith is pledged, her will
is spoken, her arm is put forth, and whoshall arrest it !

AVe should not here forget the grateful tribute of respect,
due 10 those high minded men who first projected the Can-<*L
If there is honor attached to the character of national ben-
efactors, they will hereafter receive it, in the enthusiastic
recollection of a magnanimous people. Of those who par-
ticipated in the' conception of the design, and hastened the
commencement of its execution ; some have passed o-. the
stage of existence, hefore its success was tested hy experi-
ence, while others remain, to advance its accomplishment*
and receive in the expression of public sentiment, the just
appreciation of their services. We must record the names
of LIVINGSTON, MOKRIS, and FULTON, among its departed
patrons and projectors. Their sun has set ; but the star of
their mmortaiity has arisen, and expands its lustre amid
the luminaries of ages.

Having presented our views of this cardinal object of our
present physical exertions, so deeply interesting to our pride
and our interests, and so important to the welfare of poster-
it^ ; we shall conclude our remarks, by some reference to
the works of other nations of a similar nature, and the
lessons of wisdom which we should draw from their experi-
ence.

The Great Western Canal will hereafter be viewed as a
NATIONAL WORK, and as the greatest national work, of
the kind, that this or any other country will ever produce,
although undertaken and finished by the state of New-York
alone — :So it is now considered in Europe. Our closing ob-
sotfVations will therefore be national.

ff We are yet a young nation and have scarcely begun to
act on the high theatre of empires. Before us is the volume

thousand years. Before us are the rise and ruin of
states, their march in civilization, their various forms of
government, their laws, policy, ami manners. From these
venerable stores of antiquity, from these deep fountains of
knowledge and experience, in the conduct of nations, it be-
comes us to draw the richest lessons of instruction.

Not only have we a vast and fertile country to receive and
repay o«r efforts in industry and enterprise ; hut we also
Our ca- have another advantage peculiar to ourselves. Other na-
Slou.dS cl tions, distinguished on the roll of fame, have wasted the
earlier part of their history, in emerging from a savage
state. They have waded through t)ne revolution after anoth-
er, unlil the lire which threatened to consume, left them
cleansed ami purified. But it is the fortune of the Ameri-
can republic, to commence her career in a new world, with
all the ambition and foresight, incident to a high state of civ-
ilization. We have nt> mountains of ignorance to roll away,
m> pillare of superstition to break down, no monuments of
barbarism to demolish. We have a greater mass of intel-
ligence in the American community, than is possessed by
any other nation on the face of the universe. The gates of
knowledge are thrown open, and the paths to which they
lead, wider than the eye can extend. Our government is
every way calculated to call forth and protect the collective
and individual energies of the people and Je'ad them to new
species of industry and improvement/^! population and
in national wealth, ^we are increasing on a ratio, that will
hereafter be presented to the world, without a parallel.* —

* Calculations have been made, that if our population should
increase for years to come, in the same ratio, that it has for the
last century, the following would be the result :

In 1820 we should have 10,098,177

1830 - 13,769,726

1340 - 18,769,567

1850 - - 25,582,919

5860 - - . - - - 34,869.529

!

49

** Population," says an elegant aucl inleresmg writer,^ " 15
connected with national wealth, and liberty, and personal
security are the great foundations of both ; and if this foun-
dation is laid in the stale, nature has secured the increase
and industry of its members ,• the one by desires, the most
ardent in the human frame, the other by a consideration,
the most uniform and consistent of any that possesses the
mind." With these advantages, should we not look upon
»ther nations, and embrace those objects of policy, which
they have found intimately interwoven with their happiness
and prosperity ?

What then has contributed most largely to national hap-
piness, within the scope and operation of human govern-
ments ? Has it been war, covering the earth with a sea of
blood, or has it been the promotion of peace and industry,
and the encouragement of all the useful arts in life, that
subserve the exigencies of nations, and the wants of individ- Sources
uals ? Certain it is, that the historians of every age, have happi
pointed out those eras of mankind, as the most happy and
enviable, which have exhibited the greatest degree of im-
provement in the useful arts of life-^lt is commerce, agri-
culture, and manufactures ; it is tlraarts aad sciences, com-
bined with humane and benevolent institutions, forming one
great system of national policy, and resting on the broad ba-
sis of national freedom, that forms those memorable and il-
lustrious epochs in the annals of the world, on which the

1870 - - - - 47,527,165

1880 - - 64,779,525

1890 - ^ 88,294,493

1900 - - * 120,345,394

This ratio certainly falls rather below the standard of rational
calculation, when we reflect on the immense tide of emigration
pouring into our country, in addition to the increase of our num-
bers.

* Ferguson on Civil Society.

50

historian* (he philosopher, the poet, and (he philanthropist
delight to dwell. They stand like mountains, covered with
eternal verdure, in the dreary wastes of the desert^" If we
advert to fact/' says an intelligent writer, *« and/^onsult the
records of history with regard to the state of different na-
tions, we shall (ind that civilization and commerce have very
much depended on the facility with which the inhabitants of
remote districts have maintained intercourse with one anoth
er* as well as with distant countries. As the ocean serves to
connect distant countries $ navigable rivers and canals unite
the different provinces and districts of the same country $
and as navigation, by means of the ocean, produces an inter-
course and mutual exchange of productions between the dif-
ferent kingdoms and nations ; inland navigation, in like
manner, facilitates a communication between different parts
of the same kingdom or nation, and consequently promotes
civilization, trade and industry. On the other hand, those
nations who have been destitute of the means of inland nav-
igation, either by rivers or canals, have remained from one-
age to another in the same barbarous and uncivilized state.
The observation is exemplified in the state of all the inland
parts of Africa, and of that part of Asia, which lies at any-
considerable distance north of the Euxine and Caspian sea,
and ancient Scythia, and the modern Tartary Siberia.*"

If commerce, agriculture and manufactures, and the use-
ful and refined arts of life, are so important to the welfare
and happiness of mankind j and if these blessings are so
immediately dependent on a chain of internal intercourse^
by rivers, roads and canals ; the conclusion is strong, that
such intercourse is vitally essential to the welfare of nations.
If the history too of the most civilized ages of the world
enforce this conclusion, the dictates which it carries with
it, are still more imperious. Let us turn to facts and evi-
dence.

i
* Ree's Enclo. Art. Canal,

51

Chaldeans and the Babylonians, had sufficient diseei'ii-
meat to see ihe importance ot* canal communications. They
took the waters of the Tigris and the Euphrates and carried othecoun
them throughout the regions of their fertile country. Eventrics'
ancient writers go so far as to assert, that they actually di-
vided the river Euphrates in one place, and presented this
gi^eat column of water, in two channels. The ancient peo-
ple of India, also had the sagacity to see the advantages of
such improvements. They had one canal of one hundred
miles in length, and by some it is supposed to have been the
partial execution of a plan to unite the Indus with the Gan-
ges. Notwithstanding the mouths of these two vast rivers
are 1500 miles from each other, their sources approach the
same tract of country, and would meet if extended a little
further west, in the same converging direction. The re- Those o*
mains of geveral other works of the kind are found; butAs
they remain as the almost obliterated ruins of former mag-
nificence. The early history of India is lost in fable, and
nothing but a fuinl and fading beam of her ancient opulence
and glory remains. Not so with Egypt. She stands iu ru-
ins, but the evidences of her former grandeur exist. No
country in ancient times excelled Egypt in civilization, and
all the branches of useful industry. Egypt, \ve are told,
had above six thousand miles of canal navigation, which
traversed eve 17 part of her renowned and delightful king-
dom. She connected the Nile with the Red Sea, by a canal
of 150 miles long, two hundred feet wide and navigable for Egypt,
ihe largest ships. This one canal gave her the commerce
of Persia, India and Arabia, and the kingdoms of the Afri-
«a« coast j and again enabled her to scatter the fruits of her
commerce to all the nations bordering on the Mediterrane-
an. Rollin tells us, in his ancient history, that " the villa-
ges which stood thick on the banks of the Nile eminences,
had each their canals." According to an ancient traveller,
the banks of the largest canals were crowded with cities,
towns and villas, or robed in perennial verdure, interspersed
with groves and vineyards, and embellished with all that art

52

and taste could invent, to heighten the luxuriant and £n~
chanting scenery. The internal trade of Egypt, at the most
prosperous stage of her history, was indeed -astonishing for
its extent, and her foreign commerce was not less so, consid-
ering the age in which she flourished. There are many cu-
rious remains of former canals in Greece ; but none of any
Greece, extraordinary magnitude can be traced out in the face of
the country. A great canal was contemplated to pass
through the Isthmus that divides the lonion and JSgean
seas, and connect their waters. \Vars and caprice, so inci-
dent to the fortunes of this interesting portion of the globe-,
blasted the grand design. Here we will leave the ancient
and come to the modern nations — saying nothing of the Ro-
mans, who chose rather to promote what trade they encour-
aged by roads, than by canals.*

* Gibbon observes, that " all the cities of the Roman empire.,
were connected \vith each other and with the capital, by the pub-
lic highways, which, issuing from the Forum of Rome, traversed
Italy, pervaded the Provinces, and were terminated only by the
frontiers of the empire. If we carefully trace the distance from
the wall of Antonius to Rome, and from thence to Jerusalem,
it will be found that the great chain of communication from the
northwest to the southeast point of the empire, was drawn out to
the length of 4,880 Roman miles.* The public roads were ac-
curately divided by mile stones, and ran in a direct line from
one city to another, with little respect for the obstacles either of
nature or personal property. Mountains were perforated, and
bold arches thrown over the broadest and most rapid streams,
The middle part of the road was raised into a terrace which
commanded the adjacent country, consisted of several strata of
sand, gravel and cement, and was paved with large stones, or in
some places near the capital with granite. Such was the solid
foundations of the Roman highways, whose firmness has nfct en-
tirely yielded to the effect of 1 5 centuries-"— Decline and Fall
Human Empire, vol. 1 .

When we consider that the Roman empire, at this period, ein>

* 3,740 English miles.

53

"We shall begin with China, although if we consult fief
own chronology, with any faith in its accuracy, she would
not only he ranked as a modern, hut also, as the most ancient
of nations. No kingdom in the world excels China for ca-
nal navigation, excepting Holland, and perhaps even Hol-
land in proportion to her size, does not go hefore her. She
has a large or principal canal running through every prov-
ince, and scarcely, a village or town can he found, without
the advantages of a canal or an arm of the sea. She hag
a canal navigation from one end of the kingdom to the other, china
with only one slight interruption, making a distance of 1800
miles. The " Great Canal" ran from north to south, em-
bracing the cities of Canton and Pekin, and according to
some writers is 825 miles long, while others make it 1200
miles. It is 50 feet wide, passes through 4-1 large cities,
and is supposed to have ten thousand vessels constantly em-
ployed upon it. In the southern provinces of China, there
is a vast canal, passing through a large tract of country,
one hundred feet wide. On this canal, it is said, there are
at some periods, from three to four hundred boats at one
time, in a single fleet. Small canals branch out from the
large ones, and the whole present a wonderful system of
internal trade, unequalled on the face of the globe. « The
home market of China," says Adam Smith, " is perhaps in
extent, not much inferior to the market of all the different
countries of Europe put together:" and Mr. Phillips oh-
serves, in his « History of Inland Navigation," to which ad-
mirable work we are indebted for a great part of the facts
on this part of our subject, « That China owes a great part
of her riches and fertility to these numerous canals, which
are of the greatest utility, for the transportation of the pro-
duce and merchandise of one province to another." Such
is her attention to canals, that they arc conducted through

braced an extent of sixteen hundred thousand square miles, and
a population of 120,000,000, who but must wonder and admire !

54

gardens, groves, and pleasure grounds, and even the Empe-
ror's domains rest under no exemption.

From China we pass to Europe, and begin with Spain*
who has made some improvements in canal navigation, and
projected many hold undertakings, which (he defects of her
government, the degraded state of her people, and the cor-
ruption and inertness of her ministers have defeated. Had
the millions of her own subjects, who have been sacrificed
in the mines and butcheries of Soulh America, been devo-
ted to objects of domestic improvement ; we might now pre-
sent her as a far more gratifying spectacle of internal hap-
piness and prosperity. The two canals which commence in
Navarre and terminate in the Ebro, have been productive of
great advantage. <* The province of Arragon (through
which Iliey pass) is already planted with thousands of olive
and other trees : the cities and towns which formerly were
condemned (» drought and scarcity, arc now supplied with
fish and water by these canals." A canal has also been com-
menced, which is to begin forty-eight miles north-west of
Madrid, and extend until it strikes a canal leading from the
Mediterranean to the Atlantic ocean. It is called the canal
of Castillo, and will be 420 miles long when finished. Sixty
miles have been completed ; but it is not probable that a
king whose boldest efforts consist in the restoration of the
Inquisition, will think of completing the splendid design,
worthy of the reign of Charles 5th. Some other canals of
minor consequence have been made in Spain, and others pro-
jected. Enough has been done to show their importance, as
well as the degraded state of the Spanish kingdom, that
permits them to remain unfinished and go to ruin.*

* " Spain/' says Mr. Vattel, u is the most fertile country in
Europe, but the worst cultivated." He might have added, that
in the times of the Moors and' Goths, she is said to have sustain-
ed 30,000,000 people, and now, in her civilization, she cannot
support one third that number. O ! the effects of bigotry and
priestcraft .'

France has made many noble improvements in canal nav
igation, and nearly rivals England and Holland. She has
about thirty canals and 2000 miles of canal navigation. At
the commencement of the reign of Napoleon, twenty other
canals were projected, which, according to the calculation ot
the Engineers, must have passed over a distance of 500
miles more. How far these works were advanced during
the wars, conquests, and military adventures of the ex-em-
peror, we are not able to say. The canal of Languedoc, re-
ferred to in the first part of our considerations, is among the
most remarkable canals of the world. It was begun and
finished in sixteen years, under the patronage of Louis 14th.
It reaches from Narbonne to Thoulouse, has Unlocks, is
iii feet wide, including the towing paths, and connects the
Atlantic and Mediterranean. It passes 720 feet under a
liill, and cost 82,397,600. Its length is nearly 200 miles.
The completion of this great work, so honorable to the
prince, the country and the age, is productive of benefits that
baffle calculation.

To treat in detail of the Canals of Holland, would be a
task almost as great as the compilation of her history. One
third of this extraordinary country has been reclaimed from
the ocean, and there was a day when her internal and ex-
ternal trade, gave her the command of the maritime world. __

Holland.

Her canals are as common as her roads, and instead of
coaches and chariots, her nobility themselves, pass by pleas-
ure boats, in making their tours of diversion through the
country. No nation on the globe can equal Holland for the
relative extent and utility of canal navigation.

We have before adverted to the inland trade of England.
She has 240 canals, making 3000 miles of artificial naviga-
tion. She has made 1000 miles of canal during the last
60 years. Such is the importance of these improvements,
in the estimation of the British government, that we find no
less than 161 statutes passed for their promotion and regula-
tion. The trade of England is too well known, to occupy

56

any portion of our remarks. She is the greatest comniet"
eial power that ever existed, and has found her canal navi-
gation of the Jast consequenee to her commercial prosperity,
Mr. Phillips has written a history of her canals, containing
about 500 pages.

Sweden and Denmark have made some improvements in
this species of navigation. The Swedish government, some
Jcars ag°> projected a canal to unite the Baltic and German
ocean. The works have heen commenced hut not completed.
It was intended to guard the foreign commerce of Sweden
against the depredations of the Danes and other powers*
In Denmark, a canal has heen projected and commenced,
which is intended to unite the Baltic with the Northern Sea.

Denmark *l *s to ^e 27 u"^es long* 100 feet wide, 10 feet deep, and
navigable for vessels of 120 tons burthen. A part of it is
already finished, and wants but enterprize to be comple-
ted.

We shall conclude by noticing the canals of Russia.— •
When Peter the Great returned to his Court, from Holland,
his mind was fully impressed with the importance of inland
navigation, from viewing the example of the Dutch. He
therefore projected the most stupendous plans of internal
improvements. He intended to unite the Black Sea with
the Baltic } the Baltic with the White Sea j the Caspian
Sea also with the Baltic ; and lastly, the Caspian with the

Russia. jjlack Sea. Take the map of Hussia and you may view the
extent and grandeur of tfcese mighty plans. Many smaller
communications were also contemplated coeval with these.
Peter died like Hercules, in the midst of his giant works $
but his plans have been followed, to a great extent, and no
doubt will be finally executed. The Caspian and the Baltic
have been joined by a canal communication, and Petersburg,
the centre of canal conveyance, is now a vast emporium of
commerce. Russia has many important canals, which we
cannot designate here. Through two of her largest chan-
nels, S,M2 vessels pass in a single year. From the frontiers

57

of China to the Gulph of Finland, she has 4,592 miles oi
internal navigation, ttith the exception of sixty miles port-
age. From the city of Astrachan on the shores of the
Caspian, "flic has a direct navigation to Petersburg, passing
a space of 1,43k miles. Here is enough to show the char-
acter of the Russian policy. It is the internal and foreign
commerce of Russia, that has rescued her froui the state of
the neighboring Tartars and Scythians, and given her a
proud rank among the empires of the earth.*

Here is a slight index to the policy of other nations. —
Shall we deem it worthy of an extensive and decided adop-
lion ? Here is no place to point out, in detail, the local ad-
Vantages of the United States for canal navigation. It was
done with ability in the report of Mr. Gallalin in 1807, and
will probably again be done by Mr. Crawford, in his report;
at the approaching session of Congress. //To every persoii
of the most partial observation, it is evjd^ht that no country
in the world, ever presented natural advantages for internal
trade arid ftwal navigation, so bold, so noble*/ so striking as
oui- o\vn. /At has been said with propriety, * that the United
States might be rendered a great cluster of Islands," by ar-
tificial channels of conveyance. Look at the streams which
swell our Lakes on the north, and to the Lakes themselves ;
!ook at the noble rivers that roll into the ocean along our
seaboard, and the tributary floods that mingle with thv Mis^
sissippi on the west $ trace out the sources and directions of
these waters, and you behold the grandest theatre for inter-
nal improvements, that nature ever formed in the beneficent
majesty of her works. Shall we suffer these ba'.ural advan-
tages to remain unimproved ? Shall we, like Spain,' makef
such exertions as show the importance Of their continuance,1
and then suffer our streams to roll on like the Ebroj the
Guadalquiver, the Tagus and the Duero, unimproved by ther
creative arm of industry ? When we look at the face of our

* Vide Cox's Travels and Tookc's view of Russia, &c..

H

eittii!tr,t j when we see her embracing all tlie climates ahfi
all the soils of the globe, with resources whose improve-
ment would enable us to sustain five hundred million of pee-
pie ; when we consider the nature of our civil institutions,
and the character and discernment of our citizens ; when
we recollect that in commercial enterprise, we have already-
supplanted Spain, Portugal and Holland in the ranges of
their trade* and that we can challenge England to a com-
petition $# and lastly, when we reflect to what an incalcula-
ble degree internal navigation throughout our country, would
aid this commerce ; cannot, and will not indulge a singhs
disheartening apprehension.

Another consideration gives us the most animating satis-
faction — we mean the lively interest which the American
people are now taking throughout the union in the opening of
roads and canal*. For ten years past, the spirit for Internal
Improvements has been gathering strength. Let it continue?
and fifty years will show the world an inland trade in North
America, only exceeded in extent by that of China. We
cannot here forego the. pleasure of expressing our gratifica-
tion, at the very liberal sentiments which appear in every
quarter of the nation, concerning the GREAT WESTERN CA-
NAL. The public journals and gazettes have mentioned its
progress with every mark of admiration and patriotism.—*

* The last number of the Edinburgh Review, has an interest-
ing article concerning the India Trade. Among other things,
It is stated that America is supplanting England in this com-
merce j.. that she supplies the markets of the continent 70 per
cent cheaper in some articles ; makes her voyages shorter, and
lias now 12^000 tons of shipping in this trade — two thirds as
much as England, who has 1 8,000 tons. Now all this is the truth,
but hot the whole truth : for be it known to the gentlemen of the
Edinburgh Review that instead of 12,000 tons; we have at least
25,000 tons of shipping in the East India trade. The single port
of New-York alone, is supposed to have 10,000 tons of shipping
in this commerce. Well may the blind begin to see !

59

is attention, liberality and respect, we shall always feel
proud to return to other parts of the country.

One thing we would here recommend, as an important
auxiliary in the promotion of our designs in this respect—
that coiiREspoNpiNQ ASSOCIATIONS be established in every
State of the Union, to ascertain, from time to time, the state,
progress and practicability of internal improvements
throughout the country. J^et these societies correspond
with each other, extend and interchange all useful intelli-
gence, and occasionally imbody {information and Jay it be-
fore the people. It is an important consideration, to know
ourselves, Such an association has been formed in the city
of Xew-York, under the patronage of our present Chief
Magistrate, combining men of the first respectability an<J
talents*

Our advancement in improvements must be two fold,-^
First, the states will look to themselves, bring forth their
respective resources, and apply their surplus revenue to obr
jecls of utility. Secondly, the National Government must
soon feel the necessity of cultivating tfye resources of the
nation, on a great national scale.

Finally, we see no clouds hanging over our national pros-
pects. It depends upon ourselves, whether we shall eclipse
the grandeur of European nations, by seeking elevation in
the wise jmprovement of our own resources, unconnected
with any thing like the pride, the folly and the corruption of
kings and their courts. True national greatness must rest
on the happiness of the people, guarded by magnanimity
and honor. It is not by military exploits, that nations earn .
the proudest page on the records of immortality, It is not
by spreading desolation, and scattering the seeds of hqman
misery, that they are entitled to the smiles of Providence, or
the encomiums of posterity. AVe read of the victorious
march of Sesostris, \>hile he laid waste the plains of Asia
with six hundred thousand men, with no other sensation than
that of involuntary indignation at his cruelty j but our *<!

60

'jniratton is excited, and we pall (he Egyptioiis a great peo-
ple, when \ve see them connect the Nile with the Red Sea*
and command, by one master stroke of policy, the commerce
of the oriental world. While the triumphal arches erected
to the victories of Louis, the 14th, have passed away as the
shadows of a dream, and his military adventures gotoswel?
the melancholy page of human folly ; the canal Of Lan-
guedoc will commemorate his dynasty, as a brilliant era in
the history of France, and hand down his name, covered
with a fadeless lustre, to the latest eppeh of civilization.
And while we view the actions., and study the genius of Pe-
ter the Great, we forget the frosty laurels gathered in his
winter campaigns, >yhen we strike upon, his design to unite
the Caspian with the European seas. We hope that our
country will look for a permanent glory, that shall be kin-
filed on the altar of public good, and spread the light of its
blaze amid the vicissitudes an$ revolutions of time. Her
military reno,wn should rest on the victorious defence of her
shores, and her freedom, and her national fame be insepara-
ble from objects of national utility. And when foreigners
shall cross the qcean to visit pur shores, if we cannot point
them to spots like Blenheim. Leipsjc, and Waterloo ; may
>ve show them the monuments of a nation's greatness, around
which the imprecations of posterity will not gather, as thej
ftnite {hem. with their chains anc} curse their founders 1

THE

NORTHERN CANAL,

yROM TJ1E

HUDSON TO LAKE CHAMpLAIN,

8UCH is the attention which the Great Western Canal
continually engrosses, and such the curiosity and interest
which it excites, that ail minor objects of policy seem lost in
the glare of this magnificent design. But little has been
said of the Northern Canal, which is to connect the Hudson
with Lake Champlain, although five years ago it would have
commanded much attention, and been viewed with lively
considerations as a great undertaking. As this canal is t<?
have an immediate connexion with the Western Canai, and
thus in a short time open a communication from the waters
of the Champlain to the banks of the Mississippi and the
Missouri, it ought npt to l>e omitted in our views of the in-
ternal navigation of our state.

We will indulge in a comprehensive view of its lengtli,
expense and future adrantages.

When the Canal Commissioners in company with their
Engineers, explored the route pf the Northern Canal, they

62

frund the soil to admit of two lines, over which it might
pass without any formidable obstacle. The first would be
twenty-two miles in length, commencing at the mouth of
Fort Edward Creek, following the ravine of Wood Creek,
Ten thof*° Whitehall. The second would commense six miles fur-
the Canal, therdown the Hudson, at the mouth of Moses-Kill, and ex-
tend by the natural channels of this Kill, Dead Creek and
"Wood Creek to Whitehall. The former route would make
the Canal twenty miles long ; the latter will lengthen the
distance six miles, and make the Canal twenty-six miles in
length. The former route as it appears from the last report
of the Canal Commissioners to the New-York Legislature,
has been preferred.*

It has been, thought proper to increase the dimensions of
the Northern Canal and make it as large as the Canal from
. the Hudson to Erie — 40 feet wide on the water-surface, 28
j-eet at the bottom, and the depth of water 4 feet ; the
length of a lock 90 feet, and its width 12 feet in the clear.
So reasonable and correct were the original estimates, that
even this increase of its dimensions will make no increase in
the expense. We shall, therefore, qupte the original calcu-
lations.!

The expense of the Northern Canal, from Fort Edward
to Whitehall, is estimated at §250,000. Whether it should
c' commence at Fort Edward Creek or Moses-Kill, would cre-
ate no essential disparity jn the expense.

When the waters of Champlajn shall be thus united with
the Hudson, it is proposed stiU further to improve our north-
ern inland trade by facilitating the navigation from Fort
Edward to Waterford through the Hudson, by artificial
works. There arc several interruptions in the navigation of
this distance. It is therefore proposed to construct a dam
across the Hudson, at the head of Fort Miller Falls, and

* Vide Report of Commissioners, Jan. SI, 1818.

I Vide Report Canal Commissioners, 18th March, 1817V.

63

oiii a c-anal round '(he Falls, which could be supplied wk&
water from the river above. Another dam is to be con*-
structed across the Hudson at Saratoga Falls, and another
at Stillwater Falls, and canals cut round each of these de-
scents. Then a canal is to be cut from Stillwater Falls to
Waterford, at the confluence of the Hudson and the Mo-
hawk, which will unite the Northern and Western Canals.
The canal between Waterford and Stillwater Falls will be
12 miles in length. A company was incorporated many
years since, to opeh this canal navigation between the Hudson
and Lake Champlain ; but they did little more than survey
the route, and ascertain as far as possible, the magnitude of
the undertaking, Mr. Gallatin, in his Report of 1807, esti^
mated the distance between Waterford and Skeensborough or
Whitehall, to be fifty miles, and the expense of opening the
whole Champlain navigation, at §800,000. The Canal Com-
missioners make the whole expense, including the Canal
from Moses-Kill to Whitehall before alluded to, at 8871,000.
The works now contemplated are much bolder than those
which formed the basis of Mr. Gallatin's estimates.

Some reference to the advantages which must result fVom
this connexion of the Hudson and the northern waters, may ses
here be expected.

The first advantage deserving notice will be the diversion
t)f a profitable trade from Quebec and Montreal to New-
York ; and the cities and Villages higher up the Hudson.-*-
Those parts of Vermont which are situated in the neigh-
borhood of Lower Canada, have heretofore been in the habit
of sustaining a commercial intercourse of no small impor-
tance with the British colonists, owing to the convenience
and facilities of trade arising from the contiguity of their
situation. Trade must and will be regulated by convenience
and profit, unless you interpose the arm of coercion or re-
striction. It is only by holding out those inducements that
constitute inclination and interest, that you can expect to fr°m Cana-
eross its ordinary and older channels. Should an, easy, safe

chea>) transportation be opened to those parts of Ver-
iiiont which border oa Lake Champlain, and a ready market
present itself within our own limits, but little question arises
what course their trade would take. At least one halt* of
the trade and profits which now flow into Canada, would be
brought home to our own state. Lake Champla'iri is about
^00 miles long* from north to south. It receives half the
Streams that rise in Vermont, arid many which have their
origin in Lower Canada. The country on its borders is daily
improving in agriculture, and increasing in population ; and
if their trade is secured at this early period o'f our commer-
cial history, by permanent means, its unbroken continuance
may he relied upon. The effects of the Northern Canal, irf
this respect* will be immediate. No'r is this all ; the North-
ern Canal will even levy a contribution upon Lower Canada
herself. We must recollect that lor about seven months
in the year, the riter St. Lawrence, through which all the
trade of the Canadas passed, is frozen over, or so full of ob-
structions that navigation through its waters is suspended..
Thus, for more than one half erf the year, there would be a
strong temptation for the people of Lower Canada to opeif
a trade with the city of New-York. Every article of mer-
chandize passing from this country into Lower Canada?
would yield a tax to the National Government, and extend a
profit to our own citizens, at the expense of the consumer in!
Canada.

The canal, too, will be of much importance from the
trade in lumber and timber which it will promote. These
articles are already becoming scarce in many parts of our
country. Mr. King, iu his late speech in the Senate of the
United States, observes, that " The timber of the country
is becoming scarce, and more and more an object of public
concern. The forests upon the frontier of the Octari,' and
on the great rivers leading to it, are nearly destroyed. Jri
other countries, and even in Ilussia, the improvident waste of
their timber, especially in the neighborhood of their

65

iron works, has become a subject of national solicitude.—^
Masts, spars, pine and oak timber fit fop naval purposes, and
for otber numerous uses for which timber and wood are
wanted, were far more abundant, and of better quality for-
merly, and within the memory of men now living, than they
are at the present day; and a little care and economy in the
use of our timber, even now, would confer an important ben-
efit on posterity."* If the timber which covers the moun-
tains and country in the vicinity of Lake Champlain and
Lake George, is not of that valuable description for naval
purposes which is found in the southern extremity of the
Union, and more especially in Mississippi and Alabama, it is
of much value to a commercial people, and to the towns and
cities on the Hudson. The Canal Commissioners assert in
one of their reports, that « within that tract of country em-
bracing the borders of Lake George, and the timber land
north and west of the great Falls in Luzerne, there are an-
nually made and transported to the south 2,000,000 of
boards and plank ; 1,000,000 feet of square timber consist-
ing of oakj white and yellow pine, besides dock logs, scant-
ling, and other timber to a great amount."")* The lands of
our own state, in theiviclnity of the contemplated Canal, are,
to a considerable extent, rough, unfit for a high state of cul-
tivation, and covered with an excellent growth of timber.
The increase in the ruluc of lands which this canal would
produce, where they are situated neat its line, should not be
lost to our view in the consideration of its advantages. —
AVhen we recollect the rapid growth of the cities and villa-
ges on the Hudson, and the country beyond its tide waters,
and in the immediate vicinity of the new Canal ; and when
we also remember, that according to the most accurate cal-
culation, more than 2000 new buildings are erecting in New-

* Vide Speech of Hon. Rufus King on the Navigation Act.
It is a speech replete with intelligence and elevated national
feelings, and worthy of this distinguished statesman.

f Rep. Canal Com. 1 8th March, 1817.

66

York the present season, and the timber, boards, other
materials of wood, necessary to supply a demand so great ;
and when we look at the demands for I lie different kinds ot"
timber to subserve mercantile purposes, even in the city of
New-York alone ; we cannot but think that the lands in the
vicinity of Lake Champlain and Lake George, and in some
of our northern counties heretofore deemed of little value,
will now be rendered of much pecuniary consequence to their
proprietors.

The establishment of the Naval Depot at Newburg, on the
River Hudson, reported to have been authorised by the Gov-
ernment of the United Stales, will increase to a great ex-
tent, the importance of this canal. Every thing necessary for
extensive ship building, which can be found on 'its borders,
or contiguous to the waters connected with it, will find a
ready and permanent demand, at this important post. It is
probable, from the fine harbor of New-York, and from its
being in the centre of the Union, that this depot will be one
of the largest in the United States, and afford an immense
consumption of timber necessary for naval purposes.

When this Canal shall be opened, we believe, as the Com-
missioners early perceived, that a trade of a new character
will arise, between ourselves and the people of the north-
westerly parts of Vermont. The sale of pot and pearl ashes
has heretofore, and will hereafter be a source of profit to
this quarter of the country. The transportation of these
heavy articles over a considerable distance by land, is a great
drawback upon the profits which they afford. The North-
Pot and crn Canal must open to them a ready market, and an easy,
e*. safe, and rapid conveyance. These articles can be exchang-

ed at either extremity of the Canal, at Whitehall or Water-
ford, for articles of merchandize, or for salt or gypsum,
which will hereafter be brought down the Great Western
Canal in quantities sufficient to supply any consumption. —
The salt works in our western counties will hereafter be car-
ried on upon a large scale, and gypsum will be afforded at
S5 per ton at Waterford, and perhaps for a less sum.

67

The greater part of Vermont is a fine' grazing country ;
but the expense of transportation, has, in a considerable de-
gree, heretofore prevented the cultivators of the soil from Po^cf aild
selling beef and pork, or from considering them important
ai-ticles of trade. When this canal is completed, the whole
country in the vicinity of Lake Champlain, will send the ar-
ticles of beef and pork, to the ready and constant markets,
which \ull be found at Troy, Albany, and more especially in
New- York, the great place of exportation.

The fine marble in the state of Vermont, which lies in
vast quarries in the vicinity of Lake Champlain, and is found
to possess the richest qualities, would find an immediate de-
mand by this improvement in our northern navigation. The
extensive marble works in the flourishing village of Middle-
bury, a few miles from Lake Champlain, and situated on the
banks of Otter Creek, afford a sufficient specimen of its in-
trinsic properties. It is of various hues, of a fine grain,
bears an exquisite polish, and is found to withstand the most

intense heat without anv unfavorable effects. This marble

Marble,
has been worked for several years past to great advantage

and profit, by the MIDDLEBURY MARBLE MANUFACTURING
COMPANY, and has been sent in considerable quantities to
New-York, Boston, Philadelphia, Montreal, and even so fat-
south as Georgia. It is used for monuments, and for all the
ornamental purposes of building. It may hereafter become
an article of much importance.

The country through which the Northern Canal must
pass, is said to be stored with rich and valuable minerals,
and it is calculated that extensive iron works will hereafter
be erected in the neighborhood of the mountains near Lakes
George and Champhtia. Should this be the case, this coun-
try, by means of the canal, might become an important place
for the manufacture of iron.

The Northern Canal may also produce many important
benefits in point of national defence, in case of future exi-
gencies. Naval and military stores, and materials of every

68

description essential to purposes of defence, could easily ba
Pefenct. distributed along this part of our northern frontier with
ease and safety, thus sustaining an uninterrupted water con-
veyance between our seaboard and the Canadian borders.—
Had this Canal been made previous to the last war, the sav-
ing of expense to the nation would have been of no inconsid-
erable consequence.

These are some of the future advantages connected with
this branch of our Internal Improvements. Most of these
benefits have before been suggested to the public, by the
Canal Commissioners, and we pretend to no merit in bring-
ing them forward here with our brief illustrations. It will
promote the interests of agriculture, by opening ready mark-
ets, and easy, cheap, and ready conveyance $ it will promote
domestic trade, by drawing articles of merchandize from
our own seaboard, instead of the Canadian cities. It will
advance the value of real estate, promote manufactures, and
draw rich mineral treasures from the bowels of the earth.
It will create new sources of industry, and confine the pro-
fits of our labor to ourselves.

The whole of the Northern Canal is under contract, and
it is expected that one half of the distance will be completed
"before the approach of winter, if the season continues favor-
able. The remaining portion will be advanced to a state oi'
completion with the same energy that marks its present
progress. As there are no doubts nor cavils concerning this
work, argument is unnecessary. It is not to be presumed
that the state of New-York, while directed in the applica-
tion of her means by her present Chief Magistrate, and
while able to make a Canal of 353 miles long, and connect
by ihe noblest work of the age, the great Lakes and the
ocean, will permit a spot of disgrace to rest on her character,
by not connecting the Hudson with Lake Champlain, at a
trifling expense, wheu her faith and her resources are pledg-
ed in the undertaking.

MR. DARBY'S LETTER.

[ THE following letter, which was, a few days since, written
by WILLIAM DARBY, Esq. in answer to certain inquiries
submitted to him by the Secretary of the New-York Cor-
responding Association, contains much important infor-
mation, and is subjoined here, as a valuable appendage to
the foregoing pages.]

NEW-FORK, October 11, 1818.
MR. C. G. HAINES,

Sir — Yours of the 25th ult. was duly received, but the
pressure of my private business on my return from a tour of
nearly five months, prevented an earlier attention to join-
communication. You request my opinion in the first instance
upon—

•< What canals and water communications could be con-
nected with the line of the great western canal, in our state,
for the promotion of internal improvements."

The most obvious, and by far the most beneficial water
communication that can be made between the great west
era canal and circumjacent rivers, is the contemplated canal
between the head of Seneca Lake and the Susquehanna. If
the two canals were now completed as far as Seneca Lake
and Cayuga river, the inhabitants of Pennsylvania and New-
York states, would exchange their heavy but invaluable ar-
ticles of coal, gypsum, salt, iron, pot metal, &c.

Three obvious points of water connection, between the
great western canal and lake Ontario, present themselves —
by the Niagara, Genesee and Osvvego rivers, all of which

70

are obstructed by cataracts cf more or less depression from
the lowest part of the plane of the canal to the surface of
the Jake.

Before proceeding farther in this investigation, permit me
to make a few geographical remarks. The commercial fa-
cilities naturally existing between the Atlantic states and the
valleys of the Mississippi and St. Lawrence,* may be divi-
ded into three great divisions ; which we will designate as
the Northern, Middle and Southern. All that part of the
continent of North America, watered by the St. Lawrence
river and confluent branches, to the north of the Falls of
Niagara, must have a commercial outlet and inlet by that

great river, through Montreal and Quebec South and

Southwest of the Rapids of Ohio, at the town of Louisville,
the produce of human industry will pass to New-Orleans,
and the articles of necessity and luxury, not found in the
country, will be purchased in that city. Between the Chute
of Niagara and that of Louisville, from the Allegany moun-
tains to the sources of the rivers of lake Superior, will form
the middle commercial district, and New- York, Philadel-
phia and Baltimore, will divide the profits of exchange ;
Cincinnati, Pittsburg, Detroit and Buffalo, will be in the mid-
dle, what Kingston and York, in Upper Canada, will be in
the northern, and what Louisville, St. Louis, Natches and
Natchitoches will be in the southern division. Partial inter-
communications may, and no doubt will, daily occur in com-
mercial exchange between the points of contact of these
natural sections, but these interchanges must be viewed as
exceptions to a great permanent rule formed by nature her-
self.

In examining the subject of any improvement, MAN
ought to seek what is practically useful, and not exhaust upon
idle fanciful speculation, what is due to attainable objects of

* By the valleys of the Mississippi and St. Lawrence are here
meant, all the region watered by the tributary streams of these
mighty rivers.

71

real utility. A water route from the Atlantic ocean io tlifc
immense wester* waters, has now arrested the attention of
the most enlightened citizens of New- York and Pennsylva-
nia ; and the subjec t is one, upon which the pens of the
ablest politicians or economists of these great states, may
be most beneficially employed. It is an object worthy the
deepest reflection of a public mind, at once rich in experience
and strong in moral youth. It is to be regretted that in the
developement of our natural advantages, local prejudices,
party and personal animosities should impede the progress of
rational research. It is wretched logic, to confound ques-
tions of national interest, with the trifling views of faction,
or the narrow conceptions of corporation politics.

Since receiving your communication, I have met with two
works on a similar subject ; one, « A topographical descrip-
tion of the province of Lower Canada, and on the relative
connexion of both provinces, with the United States of
America." By JOSEPH BOTJCHETTE, Esq.

The other, " A Sketch of the Internal Improvements al-
ready made by Pennsylvania ; with observations upon her
physical and fiscal means for their extension ; particularly
as they have reference to the future growlh and prosperity
of Philadelphia." By SAMUEL BRECK, Esq.

Whoever reads attentively these two treatises, will I regret
to say, find very nearly as much liberality from Mr. Bou-
c'hette, respecting the United States in general, as from Mr.
Breck, when contrasting the city of Philadelphia with the
neighboring cities of New-York and Baltimore, and partic-
ularly New-Orleans. The latter writer indeed appears in
one point to extreme disadvantage, he seems to consider
Pennsylvania as an incidental or secondary object, when in-
cluded in the same prospeet with her commercial capital ;
Mr. Boucliette, to his credit, extends his views to the causes
which may lead to the aggregate prosperity of all the Cana-
das, and does not confine his anticipations to Quebec.

To a reader unacquainted uith the relative political posi-

18

tiou of affairs on this continent, both of these writers would
appear to be inhabitants of countries environed with rival and
even hostile states. This spirit of rivalry is as injurious as
a generous emulation would be beneficial to the progress of
improvement. The inherent principles of human nature
will, however, operate, maugre all that sophistry can op^
pose to their progress. Men will carry their superabun-
dance to the best markets, whether in New-York, Philadel-
phia, Baltimore, New-Orleans, or elsewhere.

Mr. Breck, page 43, anticipates the time when the com-
merce of the waters of the Missouri and Mississippi, be-
yond the mouth of Ohio, will come to Philadelphia ; in fine,
that an era will arrive when human beings will toil 1600
miles mostly up stream, to obtain a worse market than they
could find by floating down stream half the distance. If this
prophecy is ever realized, the old proverb, « go farther and
fare worse," will receive a very remarkable application.

I notice Mr, Breck's work as it embodies much of the
common place philosophy on the subject upon which I am
now descanting. To consider that gained to Pennsylvania
which is lost by New-York, or rice versa, is just about as
correct, as it would be for an individual to desire a palace
for a residence with mud-walled, thatched-covered hovels,
to decorate the prospect from its portals. In fact* the ad-
vance of any city or state of our common country has a re-
flective effect $ the science, wealth, and liberal institutions
of any part* must shed their kindly beams upon the whole,
and the illumination must be stronger in direct ratio to ap-
proximation to the centre of light.

But to return to our subject* The relative territorial ex-
tent of the three great commercial sections of the central
parts of our continent, is as nearly as I estimate them, a»

follows :

so,. MILES.

Yalley of the St. Lawrence below Niagara, 240,000
Middle or central section, 320,000

South and southwestern section, 1,200,000

' CY LIBI

.. ^*

73

of (hose grand divisions have (heir appropriate «d»
vantages, which it is, and wili continue to be the duty of the
inhabitants respectively to improve. Of the three, the
greatest number of practical and indispensable canals and
roads, can and will be formed in the middle or central sec-
tion. Until the completion of the great Western Canal be-
tween the waters of the River Hudson, and those of Lake
Erie, that between the Seneca Lake and the Susquehanna
river, and that between the Hudson river and Lake Cham*- •
plain, no others ought to be ever seriously thought of by the
citizens of this State.

Your second inquiry is, " What Great Hoads could be
" united to the line of the Western Canal, in our state, for
96 the promotion of the same object ?'*

This latter inquisition would admit of a much wider range
than the former, if pursued in all its details; there is
scarcely five miles upon the whole line of the canal, from
which useful and necessary roads may not be drawn 5 but of
these, two obtrude themselves to immediate notice* One to
the village of Hamilton upon the Allegany river, in Calta-
raugus county, and the other between the towns of Buffalo
and Hamilton. The lately perceived importance of these
two latter places, has prevented their having excited the in-
terest they so eminently deserve. The proper point of con*
tact with the canal, or its confluent waters, by the Hamilton
road, is something difficult to fix with precision. Geneva,
and Canandaigua, present each some respective advantages
of position when contrasted with each other ; and have eith-
er a decided superiority, as points of departure, over any oth-
er places in this state. I have visited both these towns, and
from information there received, have no doubt but that ex-
cellent roads can be formed, from each to Hamilton, at no
extraordinary expense. If I was called upon to dictate a
plan upon this subject, I would direct the formation of a
turnpike road'froin both Geneva and Canandaigua, in the di-
rection towards Hamilton. These roads should converge

somewhere in the northwest angle of Steuben county, at oi1
near the village of Dansville, or Arkport, and run thence
to Hamilton by Angelica. No roads that could be possibly
funned in this state, in addition to those already made, would
produce so great and immediate benefits, as these I have
traced. If this route was laid open by good roads, it would,
even independent of the Grand Canal, become instanter the
thoroughfare between the New-England States and the Ohio
Valley. To those who are acquainted with the extent and'
mass of the tide of emigration now setting southwest, and
annually increasing, the advantages of such a route will be
apparent. Much embarrassment is now experienced by em-
igrants from Massachusetts, 'New-Hampshire and Vermont
states, for the want of a direct and easy means of transpor-
tation to Pittsburgh. No part of the western territory of
New-York is so thinly peopled, as the country included in
Steuben, Allegany and Cattaraugus counties 5 good roads
would tend greatly to encourage settlement.

Though not equal in importance or necessity with the roads
from Hamilton to Cauandaigua and Geneva, yet a good solid
road from Hamilton to Buffalo would be of great utility and
convenience to the people who inhabit the extreme western
section of this state. In a military point of view, the latter
road would be of incalculable advantage in a war with
Great Britain, in opening more extensively than at pre-
sent exists, lines of ready communication with our interior
and Canadian frontier.

It is much to be desired, that a good road was also carried
from Hamilton to Pittsburg. In execution of such a work,
the people of New-York and those of Pennsylvania ought to act
in concert ; both parties are deeply interested, though the for-
mer rather more than the latter, as the country upon the Al-
legany is yet but thinly inhabited. From the influence of
frost in the winter and heat in summer, many of our rivers
are rendered useless as channels of communications, often
Lalf the year. This is the case with all our interior streams

, ,

north of Marlyand. Durable roads arc therefore as indis-
pensable as canals, and in places where heat may exhaust or
cold congeal water, roads and canals ought to be formed co-
existent, and made in their turn subservient to the facility
of human intercourse, and the augmentation of human en-
joyment.

The road from Utica to Sackett's Harbor, though already
open, demands very extensive improvements. 1 travelled
this route ia the second week of last May, and found many
parts in a wretched state. The season was indeed extremely
inclement — a time therefore that the roads could not be ex-
pected to afford pleasant travelling — but if they are well
formed and preserved with care, they will at least always
secure safe conveyance. It would be waste of time to point
out the very high importance of a good road, solid at all
seasons of the year, from the interior of the state of New-
York, to the most exposed and by far the most valuable mil-
itary and naval station on our Canadian border.

The following are the stationary distances of each of the
proposed roads, as near as I have been able to estimate. —
The distance and stations upon the road from Utica to Sack-
et's Harbor, were taken from the former to the latter town.
The others are taken from Eddy's Map of New- York, a ve
ry meritorious work lately published.

MLLES,

From Utica, over the alluvion of the Mohawk
river, • ± 1-2

Height of land between the Mohawk and Lake

Ontario, 3 1-2—5

Tillage of Trenton, 8—13

Sugar Creek, one of the head branches of Black

River, 23 — 36

Thus far the road is now tolerable, but from Sugar Creek
it follows, generally, the valley of Black River, and is in ma-
ny places barely passable, in the spring season.

Martinsburg, seat of justice for Lewis

county, - - 14 3-4 — 50 3-4r

Lowville, - 3 1-2— -5* 1-4

Beer River, a large and impetuous

branch of Black River a good

wooden bridge where the road passes, 10 — 64 3--*

Watertown on the left bank of Black

River, » , 16—80 3-4

Brownsville, right bank of Black Ri-
ver, - - SJSjjfe* 4—84 3-4
Sacket's Harbor, 8—92 3-4

A direct road runs from Watertown to Saeket's Harbor,
distance. 8 miles, but at the time I travelled the country,
this latter road was pronounced impassable. 1 was therefore
obliged to take the more circuitous route by Brownville, and
of course Black River twice. Good bridges have been
ibrmed over that precipitous stream, at AValerlown and at
Brownville,

Route from Geneva to Hamilton.
Height of land between Canandaigua and

Crooked Lakes, 30

Arkport, 20—50

Angelica, - 20—70

Hamilton, 30—100

Intersecting route with the above, from Canandaigua.
Naples, - - 20

Arkport, - -. 23—43

From the foregoing it will be seen, that the distance from
Geneva is 100, and from Canandaigua, 93 miles to Hamilton.
The land distances could be shortened by passing by water,
from Geneva, through the Seneca and Crooked Lakes, and
from Canandaigua, by the Canandaigua Lake. If the pro-
posed roads were made, it is probable they would intersect
near the Conhocton branch of Susquchanna, or between the
Conhocton and Arkport. Diverging roads could be easily
formed from the main lines to the heads of Canandaigua,
Seneca, and Crtoked Lakes, and thus open still more exteu-

BERKELEY LIB

lively the channels of transportation in a very improvable*'
and improving country.

From the head of Crooked Lake to Bath or (lie Conhoc-
ton, is only about 5 miles. From Bath, rafts and boats can
be and have been conveyed down the Conhocton into the main
stream of Tioga, and finally into the Susquehanna river.

Route from Hamilton to Buffalo.

MILES.

Cattaraugus Creek, 30

Buffalo, 30—60

Tin's distance is measured upon the map direct ; it is not,
however, probable, that a road could in reality be made in
less than 70 or 75 miles between Buffalo and Hamilton. The
face of the country from the Allegany river to Cattaraugus
creek, and for some considerable distance north of the lat-
ter stream, rises into high hills. The road would cross the
table land between the waters of the Ohio and those of Lake
Erie. It may not be irrelevant to remark, in this place, a
circumstance of considerable import in tSie investigation of
the subject of the connexion between Lake Erie and Ohio
river. By actual admeasurement, as reported by Mr. Gal-
latin, Brownsville, or rather the Monongahela river at that
town, is elevated 850 feet above tide water in Chesapeake
Bay ; and by careful measurement made in preparing for
the commencement of the great western canal, the surface
of Lake Erie is elevated 565 feet above the tide water in tie
Hudson river at the city of Albany. From this data, the
Monongahela at Brownsville, is 285 feet higher than the
surface of Lake Erie. 1 am well acquainted with the JVIo-
nongahela river between Brownsville and Pitisburg, and
cannot be induced to consider the waterfall from the former
to the latter place above 45 or 50 feet perpendicular ; which
estimate, if correct, Mould yield a fall of nearly 250 feet
from Pittsburg to Buffalo. This statement will be relieved
from all improbability by a very cursory glance upon a map
of our continent. The much greater distance from Pitts-

p

burg to tide water in the gulf of Mexico, than from
Buffalo to tide water in St. Lawrence river will be apparent.
It has been found from actual survey, as marked upon Ed-
dy's map of Niagara river, that the difference of level be-
tween Lake Erie and Ontario is 334 feet. Supposing the
gulf of St. Lawrence and the Hudson river at Albany to be
on a level, and the difference cannot be considerable, there
are 565, less 33i, or 231 feet as the fall of water from tbc
bottom of Lake Ontario to tide water in St. Lawrence river ;
a prodigious depression for the distance, and amply accounts
for the rapidity of the rapids at Grand Gallop, Point Iro-
quois, Rapid Plat, Grand Saut, and St. Mary's Rapid below
Montreal.

Assuming the above heights and depressions as correct,
there will be about 250 feet from any intervening point more
depression to reach the waters of Lake Erie than those of
the Ohio at Pittsburg. The dividing ridge approaches in
Cattaragus county, near Portland, within less than live miles-
of Lake Erie. Sailing along that Lake, within about three
miles from the New-York shore, this ridge appeared to me
to be 1000 feet high ; some of its points I was then led to
believe at least 200 feet still more elevated than the general
range of the hills. About 20 miles S. W. of Buffalo this
ridge first appears distinctly visible from Lake Erie, and
and continues in view beyond the town Erie, and from thence
gradually retires into the state of Ohio ; in clear weather it,
however, remains in sight from the Lake, even opposite the
mouth of Sandusky Buy. Huron and Cayahoga rivers in-
dent it) and when opposite the mouths of these streams it
disappears, but in the intervening space rises prominent
above the adjacent country.

Your third and last subject of inquiry is, « What advan-
tage does New-York possess over New-Orleans, for supplying
the country, north-west of the Ohio river, with goods and
merchandise ?"

To this interrogatory, I would answer briefly, that as

RERKELEY LIB

tors now stand it would be nearly, if not altogether
cheap, to ship goods and merchandise from the former, to
to the latter city, and have them thence transported, by Ma-
ter to Cincinnati, or even to Pittshurg, as it would be to con-
vey (hem by the einbarrasing land and water routes now ex-
isting between the Hudson and Ohio rivers. The comple-
tion of the -canal from the Mohawk to the Seneca, and a good
road from thence to Hamilton, would, if nothing else was
done, change the face of affairs. New-York would then en-
joy the benefits of her nearer approximation to the water of
the Ohio ; she would be enabled to counterbalance, by her
existing capital, the superior local advantages of New-Or-
leans ; and she would forever preserve her now relative rank
amongst the cities of ihe United States. If a direct water
communication was open with Lake Erie, the resources of
the state and (his city would be still more enlarged. >Ve
have been in the habit of undervaluing the regions watered
by the confluent waters of the Canadian Lakes. The real
fact is, that in many respects the countries, contiguous to the
great chain of interior seas, are superior to most parts of
our continent of equal extent. The soil is generally good,
and every where produce, in abundance, the Cereal gramina.
To the west of Niagara, as far as Lake Superior, the cli-
mate is mild. All the shores of Lakes Erie and Michigan,
and great part of those of Huron, will affords fine settle-
ments. AVith but very few exceptions those regions are
healthy and supplied with excellent water.

Let the produce of their labour pass where it may, the
number of human beings that are now daily passing Buffalo
will soon dissipate the forests and supply their places with
towns, villages, farm-houses, fields, meadows, orchards, and
gardens. The beautiful and highly cultivated lands of the
strait of Erie, are now a specimen, of what in forty years

will be the landscape from Niagara to Chicaga.

It is a very gratifying anticipation to behold in our fancy,

the epoch to come, when this augmenting mass of population

\:

30

"rnU enjoy, in the interior of this vast continent, a ch
collection of immense marts, where the produce of UK
banks of innumerable rivers and Lakes can be cxchauged^
on or near the shores of the Atlantic Ocean for the con-
veniences of Europe, and the luxuries of the Indies.

In the Edinburgh Review, for June, 1818, when speakin<
of Mr. Morris Birkbeck's tour in America, and the streai
of population passing from the borders of the Atlantic Oceanj
into the region we now call relatively western : occurs this
remarkable passage :

" Where is this prodigious increase of numbers, this vast]
extension of dominion, to end ? What bounds has nature set
to the progress of this mighty najton ? Let our jealousy
burn as it may ; let our intolerance of America be as un-
reasonably violent as we please ; still it is plain that she is]
a power in spite of us, rapidly rising to supremacy ; or, at!
least, that each jear so mightily augments her strength, as
to overtake, by a most sensible distance, even the most for*'
midable of her competitors. In foreign commerce she comes]
nearer to England than any other maritime power, and al-
ready her mercantile navy is within a few thousand tons of]
our own ! if she goes on as rapidly for two or three years,
she must overtake and outstrip us."

Such are the impressions already made in Europe by out-
existing state, such the views of our future progress ! The
bounds that nature may have in preparation, to limit the pros*
perity, wealth, power or science, of the people of the United
States will never be seen by either you or me. With senti-
ments of sincere esteem, I am, dear sir, yours,

WILLIAM DARBY
GHARLES G. HAINES, Esq."]

Cor. Sec'ry. of the Socie- '

ty for . the Promotion off

Internal Improvements. J

l-M

\

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