University of Virginia Library F;106;.D268;1840 ALD The traveller's guide through DX 000 515 370 LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NIVERRA OF VIR BESITY Doncasa UNIT GINIA Boxcavatoa ZYCA 1819 S GIFT OF JOHN COOK WYLLIE ON اس . . . THE TRAVELLER'S GUIDE THROUGH THE MIDDLE AND NORTHERN STATES, AND THE PROVINCES OF CANADA. - tema BY G, M. Davison. EIGHTH EDITION. ió, oi, oi..." ( daraioga 3pi iagos s PUBLISHED BY G. M DAVISON; AND EY 3. s. de W, WOOD NEW.WORK.. .' 1840. 1840 319125 So ENTERED according to the act of Congress, in the year 1840, by G. M. Davison, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the Northern District of New-York. ..... INDEX. Posts , Introduction, ............. From Augusta, Geo. to Charleston, S. C. Augusta---Hamburgh,........ ...... 19 From Sarannah to Charleston. Savannah, ........:::: Steamboat route-table of distances,....... Land route-table of distances, ........... Charleston, ...... Sullivan's Island,.............. From Charleston to New York, Route by water-table of distances, i .............. From Charleston to Weldon, N. C. Steamboat and rail road route,... ...... Wilmington, N.C.... From Weldon, via Norfolk, to Washington City. Railroad and steamboat route,.... Portsmouth-Norfolk-Jamestown, .... Mount Vernon,......... Alexandria, ........ From Weldon, via Richmond, to Washington City. Petersburgh,.. Richmond-Manchester-Fredericksburgh, ....... Washington City, ......... Georgetown-Chesapeake and Ohio canal,........ INDEX. From Washington to the Virginia Springs. Table of distances, ....... Monticello--Warm Springs,......... White Sulphur Springs,........ From Washington to Baltimore. Rail road,........ Baltimore, ......... Baltimore and Ohio rail road....... Baltimore and Susquehannah rail ................... • • • • • • • • From Baltimore to Philadelphia. Route by way of Frenchtown and New.Castle North Point,....................... Chesapcakc and Delaware canal, ....... Frenchtown and New-Castle rail road,...... New.Castie, ........................ Route by way of Havrc de Grace and Wilmington, Havre de Grace,...................... Elkton-Wilmington, ........................ Philadelphia, .............................. Internal Improvements in Pennsylvania,...... From Philadelphia to Pittsburg. Rail road and canal routc,...... Columbia rail road, ..... Lancaster--Harrisburgh, ......... Pennsylvania canal,......... Lewiston-passage across the Alleghany Mountains Thence to Pittsburg, ... Rail road and stage route to Pittsburg. ....... FILI sburg, ..................................... Coal mines, ................................ From Philadelphia to the Schuylkill Coal Mines, Germantown, Nörristown and Reading rail road,... Germantown-Norristown-Pottstown-Hamburgh 73 Mount Carbon,......... Rail roads in the vicinily of the mines, ........... INDEX. Route to the Lehigh Coal Mines. Mauch Chunk,...... Mauch Chunk rail road, ..................... Lehigh river,....... The Landing-Lehighton, ... Lehigh Water Gap,...................... Bethlehem, ..... Easton,..... Morris Canal-Delaware Wind Gap-Delaware Water Gap,... From Easton to Schooly's Mountain, and thence to New York, Table of distances-Schooly's Mountain, ......... 81 • • • • From Philadelphia to New-York. Route by the Camden and Amboy rail road,...... Burlington-Bristol-Bordentown, ........ Camden and Amboy rail road,........ Route by way of Trenton and Newark,....... Philadelphia and Trenton rail road,......... Bristol-Trenton,............... New-Brunswick-Rahway_Elizabethtown-Ne • • • • • . • ark.................................... • . • • • . • . • • Jersey City-New-York, ................... Excursions, ................. Governor's, Bedlow's and Staten Island, ..... Paterson-Hoboken-Long Branch, ....... Harlem rail road-Croton Aqueduct-Hurl Gate,.. Brooklyn,................. Brooklyn, Jamaica and Long Island rail road,...... . • • Rockaway,..... 101 From New York to Albany. Table of distances, .... Weehawken-Lunatic Asylum-Palisadoes. Fort Lee, ......... ........ 102 Fort Washington.-Philipsburgh-TappanBay.- Tarrytown, ..... 2 INDEX. . 106 . . 109 . . . . . . . Sleepy Hollow-Harverstraw Bay-The Highlands, 104 Caldwell's Landing-Horse Race, ... 105 West Point,... Pollopel Island--New-Windsor, ........ 108 Newburgh, ........ Milton Poughkeepsie, .......... 110 Hyde Park Landing–Catskill......... 111 Delaware and Hudson Canal, . Pine Orchard, .............. 112 Athens-Hudson, ........... 114 Coxsackic Landing,...... 115 Albany, ..... 116 Excursion to Saratoga Springs. Route by way of Schencctady, ..... 119 Mohawk and Hudson roil road, ........ il Buel's Farm-Schenectady.... ..... 120 Saratoga and Scheneciady rail road,..... 121 Ballston Lake, .... Ballston Spa,. ................. Route by way of Troy to Saratoga Springs, Gen. Van Rensselaer's Mansion,. .. Macadamized road, .......... U S. Arsenal-West Troy,............... 126 Troy, .................. 127 Rensselaer and Saratoga rail road, ... 129 Van Schaick's Island --Lansingburgh-Waterford,. 130 Cohoes Falls—The Junction, .. 131 Mechanicsville-Saratoga Springs,............... 132 From Saratoga Springs to the Battle Ground. Saratoga Lakc,........ Bemus' Heights,.............. 145 Freeman's Farm, ........ 146 Smith House-Schuylerville, ........ 147 Fort Edward,....... 148 From Saratoga Springs to Lake George. Sandy Hill-Glen's Falls, ...... 149 Jessup's Falls--Hadley Falls, ... .......... 144 150 INDEX. VIT 151 153 Bloody Pond-Caldwell—Lake George, .......... Fort William Henry,........ Passage of Lake George, ..................... Ticondcroga,.................................. 155 157 w n ,...................... EXCURSION TO NIAGARA FALLS. BY RAIL ROAD AND STAGE. From Saratoga Springs to Buffalo. Remarks ....... 159 Table of distances, ........ 161 Utica and Schenectady rail road, ................ id Amsterdam, ........ 163 Fonda-Johnstown,. 164 Palatine Bridge--Fort Plain--Little Falls,........ 165 Herkimer,.... 168 Utica,....... 169 Trenton Falls,...... 170 Utica and Syracuse rail road. 174 Whitcsboro'-Oriskany-Rom C, ......... Fort Stanwix,............. 175 Syracusc-Salina, ......... 176 Auburn and Syracuse rail road-Auburn, ......... 178 Cayuga-Seneca Falls, ....... Waterloo Geneva- G nova 183 Canandaigua, ........ E. & W. Bloomfield-Lima--East Avon-Avon Spring,....... Caledonia-Leroy, ...... Batavia-Batavia to Buffalo,.. id 181 ERIE CANAL. Description of,................................. 188 From Saratoga Springs to Buffalo, by rail-road and canal. Table of distances, ......... 190 GeddesNine Mile Creek-Canton-Jordan,..... Weed's Port-Centre Port-Port Byron,..... Lake Port-Clyde-Palmyra, ................. VIII INDEX. Fullom's Basin-Pittsford-Rochester, ..., 193 Tonewanda rail road-Ridge Road,..... 196 Carthage, ........ ............ 197 197 Brockport-Holley-Albion,........... 198 Medina-Gasport-Lockport, ....... ... 199 .. id From Saratoga Springs to Buffalo, by rail road, canal and steamboat. Table of distances-Fulton-Oswego,............ 201 Lake Ontario,....... 203 Great Sodus Bay-Charlotte-Fort Niagara,...... 204 Fort Georgc-Youngstown-Lewiston-Queenston, 205 Battle of Queenston, .. Brock's Monument,....... 206 Ridge Road, ...... Devil's Hole-Whirlpool--Sulphur Spring, 208 Niagara Falls, ................ 209 Welland Canal-Burning Spring, ......... 216 Bridgewater, or Lundy's Lane,.... .. 217 Chippewa-Chippewa Battle Ground, ........ ... 218 Navy Island-Black Rock-Waterloo-Fort Erie,. 220 Buffalo, ........... 221 O 207 ........................ 221 225 From Buffalo to Detroit. Tablc of distances-Dunkirk-Van Buren-Erie, . Ashtabula-Cleveland, ............... 226 Ohio and Erie Canal,........... 227 Sandusky-Amherstburgh, ............. 228 Detroit, ....................... 229 St. Joseph,............................... 230 From Detroit to Chicago. Table of distances-Toledo, ........ Adrien-Tecumseh-Niles-Michigan City,... Chicago, .....! From Chicago to Milwaukee, ......... Do. to Galena, .................. to the mouth of the Ohio river, .. Do. INDEX. 0:36 237 From Buffalo to Montreal, via Lake Ontario, on the British side. Table of distances-Toronto,... 234 Port Hopc, .......... 235 Coburg, ................ Ki gston,..... Bay of Quinte,..... 238 Rideau and Ottawa Cana!,...... 239 Caledonia Springs, From Buffalo to Montreal, on the American side. Table of distances, ......... 248 Sacket's HarboiCape Vincent,.. Morristown-Ogdensburgh,... Rap'ds of the si. Lawrence, .. .. 250 Lachinc--Montreal, ....... W . 251 ...... 246 . 9 ................ 253 254 255 256 257 ..... id From Montreal to Quebec. Description of the routc,....... Varennes, ........ William Henry, ................... Lake St. Peter-Three Rivers, ..... Richelicu Rapids-Sillory river Wollc's Cove,.. Point Levi, ............ Quebec,........ Plains of Abraham, .... Martello,'l'owers, ..... Falls of Montmorenci, Lorettc, ........... Chaudierc Falls,......... St. Lawrence river bc!ow Quebec, .. Saguenay river, ... Mouth of the St. Lawrence, ...... From Quebec to Montrcal, From Montreal to Whitehall., Table of distances Lapraric, ........ St. Johns-Lake Champlain,...... Isle au Noix-Rouse's Point-Plattsburgh,.... 258 267 268 269 271 272 274 275 277 id 278 279 280 INDEX Downie's Monument,....... Port Kent-Adgate's Falls, .......... High Bridge-Burlington,.............. Split Rock-Crown Point,............. Ticonderoga-Mount Independence,... South and East Bays-Whitehall, ........ 282 283 284 285 .. id .. 286 ........... 287 CHAMPLAIN CANAL. Description of,,. .......... 287 Canal route from Whitehall to Albany. Table of distances,........... From Whitehall to Troy and Albany, by stage and rail road. Table of distances,..... 288 Fort Ann-Burgoyne's road, .................. Sandy Hill-Fortville, .......... Saratoga Springs to Troy and Albany,.......... ROUTES TO BOSTON. Remarks relating to, ............. .......... 290 From Albany to Boston, via New-Lebanon. Table of distances-New-Lebanon, .............. 290 Pittsfield, .................. 291 Noathampton-Farmington and Hampshire Canal,. 292 Mount Holyoke, ............ Hadley-Regicides, Whalley and Goffe, ......... Belchertown—Ware Factory Village-Brookfield, . Leicester-Worcester, ........ Boston and Worcester rail road, ... Worcester to Boston,........................... From Albany to Boston, via Springfield, Mass. Table of distances-- Canaan-West Stockbridge,.. 298 Springfield,............. Springfield to Boston,......... .... 301 299 INDEX. 301 id • 303 • From Saratoga Springs to Boston. Table of distances-Schuylerville,..... Union Village-Cambridge-Arlington,..... Manchester Chester-Bellows Falls,.... 302 Walpole, ... Keene-Groton-Concord—Lexington,....... 304 Cambridge, ........ 306 From Whitehall to Boston. Fairhaven-Castleton, ......................... 307 Rutland-Chester, ............................. 308 • • From Burlington to Boston, through Windsor, Vt. Table of distances Montpelier, ................ 309 Randolph-Royalton-Woodstock-Windsor, ..... 310 Windsor to Boston,.... ....... 311 .............. From Burlington to Boston, by way of the White Moun- tains and Concord, N. H. Table of distances Hanover, (see note).. 311 White Mountains, ...... 312 Conway-Fryeburgh, ......... 319 From Conway to Concord. Centre Harbor-Red Mountain-Squam Lake,.... 320 Concord, ....................... From Concord to Boston. Nashua-Lowell, ........ Boston and Lowell rail road, .... Boston, ................... East Boston-Mount Auburn,..... Quincy-Dorchester, .... Brighton-Watertown-Cambridge-Charlestown,. 334 Breed's Hill,. ............................. 335 Bunker Hill Monument-Chelsea, ..... 339 Fort Independence-Nahant, ........ 340 Forts around Boston erected during the revolution,.341 INDEX. From Boston to Portland. Table of distances-Lynn,.... Salem-Vewburyport,......................... Exeter--Portsmouth,........................... Portland, ...... 349 350 351 352 Icesi rin Yarmoutli, ............ SIS From Portland to Eastport. Table of distances-North Yarmouth,. Freeport-Brunswick--Bath.-Wiscassct-Waldoboro 354 Warren-Thomaston-Camden-Belſast-Castine, 355 Machias-Eastport-Robinstown, .... .............. 356 357 From Portland to Quebec. Table of distances-Hallowell—Augusta, ....... Sidney-Waterville-Norridgework, .............. Remainder of the route to Quebec, ..... 359 .. id From Boston to Providence. Boston and Providence rail road, ....... Dedham, (see note,)........ id Providence, ............... 360 Blackstone Canal, 362 Stonington and Providence rail road,.......... From Providence to New York, by steamboat. Table of distances, ...... 363 Pawtuxet-Mount Hope-Bristol, .. Newport, .......... 364 Point Judith, ... ... 365 Thence to New-York, ......... .....366 From Providence to New York, by rail road and steamboat. Table of distances-Stonington, .............. 366 Thence to New York, .............. From Stonington to New-London. New-London,......... ........ 368 ....... 368 INDEX. XW) From New-London to Norwich, by steamboat. Thames River-Mohegan, ....... ........ 370 Trading Cove-Norwich, ...... 371 Norwich and Worcester rail road,........... 372 From Norwich to Hartford. Table of distances, ...... East Hartford-Hartford, ...... Steamboats and stages from Hartford, ......... ....... 372 373 375 From Hartford to Middletown. Wethersficld-Rocky Hill--Middletown, ........ Haddam-Saybrook, (see note,)............... 378 377 From Hartford to New Haven. Table of distances, ....................... 378 New Haven-Yale College, .......... West Rock-East Rock--Farmington Canal,... Steamboats from New Haven to New York,...... Stages from New Haven,...... Route from New-Haren to New-York. Table of distances-Sketch of the route, (see note,) 332 Bridgeport-Rail-road--Fairfield, ............. la Norwalk-Westchester co.—Horseneck-Harlæm,. 383 From New Haven to Litchfield. Stages—Waterbury--West Rock, ............. 383 Watertown--Litchfield-Mount Tom,........ 384 Great Pond-Mount Prospect, ................ id From Litchfield to Albany. Stages and intervening places, ................ From Litchfield to Hartford. Harwinton-Burlington, .................... 385 Farmington-Hartford, ....... A3 XIV INDEX. Route up the Valley of the Connecticut river. East Windsor-Enfield-Suffield, ............. 386 South Hadley Fal!s, ......... 387 Northampton-Hadley-Hatfield, ..... id Muddy Brook, ..... ........ 388 Deerfield, .............................. 389 Greenfield-Turner's Falls, .......... 391 Vernon--Guilford-Brattleborough, ............ 393 Dummcrston-Putney-Westminster, ..... Walpole-Bellows Falls-Charlestown, ......... id Springfield, Weathersfield-Windsor,...... Ilartland-Hartford Hanover,............... id .. id ",........... 395 INTRODUCTION. This work is designed as a pocket manual and guide to travellers visiting the Middle and Northern States and the Canadas. Its limits forbid elaborate descriptions or minute geographical details. It is therefore confined to subjccts of more immediate interest to the tourist; di. recting him in his course, and pointing out, as he passes, objects which most deserve his notice and regard. The Guide, it will be perceived, commences at Augus. ta, in Georgia, though a rapid glance of the country merely is taken until reaching Washington city. It being the objcct of tourists from the south, as the warm season approaches, to accelerate their journey to the more salu. brious climate of the north, a description of the southern states would be foreign to the design of this work, and probably uninteresting to most of its readers. We there. fore briefly notice somc of the pruininent cities and towns at the south, and pass on to those sections embraced with. in what has been usually denominated the NORTHERN TOUR. ERRATA. In p. 20, 13th line from top, instead of " northeasterly," read northwesterly; and in the 15th line, for “ easterly," read westerly. In the 21st page, 14th line from top, for “northeast. erly," read northwesterly. THE TRAVELLER'S GUIDE. FROM AUGUSTA, GEO., TO CHARLESTON, 8. C. 136 miles. The intermediate distances by rail road are as fol. lows : Miles. Miles. Augusta to Branchville,.......... 10 Aiken, ............. 16 Summersville, ....... 40 Blakesville,........... 30 Woodstock, ......... 7 Midway,............ 18 | Charleston,........... 15 AUGUSTA is an incorporated city, and the capital of Richmond county, Geo. It is located on the Savannah river, 340 miles by water above Savannah, between which places it is navigable for boats of only 100 tons burthen. The city contains a court house, jail, and several churches, banks and other public buildings, many of which are creditable to the taste and munificence of the inhabitants. The population is about 8000. From Hamburgh, a village of some magnitude on the opposite side of the river, the Charleston and Hamburgh rail road commences, connecting the two places by a steam communication 136 miles long. It was com. menced in 1830 and completed in 1833. Instead of be. ing graded, it originally consisted mostly of trestle work 20 BAVANNAH TO CHARLESTON. . the rails, in many instances, being from 12 to 15 feet above the surface of the ground. But the importance of rendering the work more permanent, soon became obvious, and the company have since graded the entire line, and rendered the foundation solid. From the bridge at Hamburgh, the road rises in a dis- tance of 16 miles, 360 feet, and from thence to Charles- ton it descends 510 feet. It has one inclined plain 3800 feet long, with an ascent of 180 feet, which is overcome by ineans of stationary engines. The route from Ham. burgh to Charleston is performed in about 12 hours. From Augusta a rail road is nearly completed to Athens, 114 miles distant in a northeasterly direction ; and a rail road is also finished to Greensborough, 100 miles distant, in an easterly direction. The latter is a part only of a route in progress to the boundary line be. tween Georgia and Tennessee, a distance of 285 miles ; from whence a road is constructing to Knoxville, Tenn. 97 miles farther. When completed, it will afford an un. interrupted line of 510 miles from Charleston to the in. terior. FROM SAVANNAH TO CHARLESTON, 110 miles. SAVANNAH, the principal city in the state of Georgia, is located on the southwest bank of the Savannah river, about 17 miles from the bar at its mouth. The city is built on elevated ground, and exhibits a beautiful appear. ance from the water; its tall spires and other public buildings, with the groves of trees planted along its streets, giving it an air of peculiar fascination. The SAVANNAH TO CHARLESTON. streets are wide and regularly laid out, and the buildings, together with the public squares, of which there are ten, exhibit much taste and elegance. Of the public build. ings, the city contains a court house, jail, hospital, theatre, exchange, a public library, 3 banks, and 10 churches. The Presbyterian church is an elegant and spacious edifice of stone. The Exchange is a large building, 5 stories high. The academy, partly of brick, and partly of stone, is 180 feet front, 60 feet wide, and 3 stories high. Savannah is by far the most important commer- cial town in Georgia, and is the great mart of the cotton planters for an extensive and well settled region of coun. try. A rail road between the city and Macon, 210 miles in a northeasterly direction, is partly finished, and the residue in a state of progress. Steamboats ply regularly between Savannah and Charleston, distance 111 miles, as follows: Miles. Bloody Point,........ 17 Stoney Inlet,........ 27 Hilton Head,........ 18 Coffin Land,......... 11 Truncard's Inlet,..... 4 Fort Moultire,....... 6 St. Helena Sound,.... 21 Charleston,.......... 4 South Ecisto Inlet,... 31 By land, the distance between the two cities is 118 miles, as follows: Miles. Miles. Milss. 9 11 From Savannah to Thompson's Tavern,.. Beck's Ferry, on the Pompon P. Office,.... Savannah river, .... 25 Jackson Borough,.... Fitch's Echan road,.. 19 Hick's Tavern,.... Coosauhatchie,....... 4 | Green's Tavern,.... Pocotaligo,.......... 6 Ashley River,..... Saltketcher Church,.. 7 Charleston,........ CHARLESTON. On this route, the tourist crosses the Savannah river, which is navigable for steamboats to Augusta, 123 miles, by land, above Savannah, having its rise 150 miles north. west of the former place; The Coosauhatchie river, which rises 47 miles north- west of the village of that name, and falls into the Coo. saw river, 6 miles southeast; The Cambahee river, which rises 75 miles northwest of Saltketcher, and falls into St. Helena Sound, 18 miles southeast from that place; The Edisto river, which rises 90 miles northwest of Jacksonboro,' and falls into the Atlantic ocean 20 miles southeast; and The Ashley river, which rises about 40 miles northwest of Charleston. This route is interspersed with rice and cotton planta. tions, and several handsome country seats of the opulent owners of the soil. In the spring, the whole face of the country assumes a richness of verdure highly picturesque and romantic ; which, however, becomes dried and with. ered during the burning heat of a summer's sun. CHARLESTON, The metropolis of South Carolina, is alike distinguished for the opulence and hospitality of its inhabitants. On entering the city from the bay, an interesting prospect is presented. The glittering spires of its public edifices are well calculated to give animation to the scene. Some of its streets are extremely beautiful, and many of the houses are truly elegant. Orange trees, in the early part of the season, laden with fruit, and peach trees clothed SULLIVAN'S ISLAND. 23 with blossoms, meet the eye of the traveller, and united with the climate of the country at that time, render Charleston one of the most attractive cities in the union. The society is refined, intelligent, frank and affable. The city was founded and made the seat of govern. ment of the state in 1680. It stands on a dead level with the sea, two noble rivers, the Ashley and the Cooper, en. closing it on a wide peninsula, called the Neck. Moet of the houses contain a piazza, extending from the ground to the top, giving to the rooms in each story a shady open walk. Except in the commercial parts of the town, the houses, which are mostly painted white, are generally surrounded with gardens, trees and shrubbery, giving to them a peculiarly romantic and rich appearance. The most celebrated edifices of this city, arc 10 or 12 in number, exclusive of 20 churches; many of which ex. hibit much architectural taste and beauty. The city library is one of the best in the union, and contains near. ly 14,000 volumes. Though this city has been occasionally visited with yel. 1 low fever, it is considered more healthy for acclimated in. 1 habitants than the surrounding country. The planters from the low country, and many opulent strangers from the West Indies, come here to spend the sickly months, and to enjoy the elegant and enlightened society with which the city abounds. The rail road from this place to Hamburgh, &c. has already been noticed at p. 19. SULLIVAN'S ISLAND, which lays at the distance of 7 miles from the city, at the entrance of the harbor, is a 22 24 SULLIVAN'S ISLAND. spot consecrated as the theatre of important events dur. ing the revolution. On this island is Fort MOULTRIE, rendered glorious by the unyielding desperation with which it sustained the attack of the British facet in the war of independence. The fleet consisted of about fifty sail; and on the first annunciation of its approach, lay within six leagues of the island. About this period, a proclamation reached the shore, under the sanction of a flag, in which the British com- mander, Sir Henry Clinton, held out the promise of par. don to all who would resign their arms, and co-operate in the re-establishment of loyalty. But the proposition met with the rejection which it deserved. The militia of the adjacent country crowded the streets of Charleston ; the citizens threw down their implements of industry, and grasped their arms in deſence of their native city. On the 28th June, 1776, Fort Moultrie was attacked by about ten ships, frigates and sloops, and was defended in a man. ner that would have honored the heroic veterans of Greece or Rome. So manfully did the garrison withstand the conflict, that the fleet was compelled to withdraw, leay. ing the inhabitants in the unmolested cnjoyment of their rights. From Charleston to New Orleans, a very common route is by rail road to Greensboro', (already noticed) and from thence by stage, twice a day, via Indian Springs, (Geo.) Columbus, Montgomery, (Alab.) and Mobile; and another by steamboat to Brunswick, (Gco.) 160 miles, by stage to Tallahassee, (Florida) 210 mile: , by rail road to St. Marks, 21 miles, by steamboat to Lake Wimico, (in. ner passage) 85 miles, by stcamboat from St. Josephs to L CHARLESTON TO WELDON. 25 Mobile, 215 miles, and from thence to New Orleans, 114 miles. The communication between Charleston and New- York, until recently, was mostly by steamboat; but since the construction of the North Carolina and Virginia rail roads, the inland route is generally preferred. The distance by water, is 670 miles, as follows: Miles. 1 Miles. Off Cape Fear,...... 120 Off Barnegat Inlet, .. 70 Cape Look Out... 75 | The Bar, ........... 45 Cape Hatteras,... 78 | Sandy Hook, ...... Capes of Virginia, 140 The Narrows, ..... Cape May,...... 120 | New-York, ......... FROM CHARLESTON TO WELDON, N. c. 315 miles. The route is by steamboat and rail road, as follows: By steamboat. I By rail road. • Miles. Miles. From Charleston to From Wilmington to the mouth of Cape Weldon,........ 160 Fear River, ..... 120 Wilmington, ...... 35 A steamboat leaves Charleston daily, and reaches Wil. mington in about 14 hours : from whenec a rail road, passing through Waynesburo' and Enfield, to Weldon, on the Roanoke river, is taken, occupying about 10 hours more. Steamboat and rail road fare, $15. WILMINGTON, N. C., is the capital of New-Hanover county. It is situated on the northeast side of Cape Fcar river, just below a union of its branches, to which place the river is navigable for vessels. The town contains WELDON TO WASHINGTON CITY. about 3000 inhabitants, and is the greatest shipping port in the state. It was visited by a conflagration in 1819, by which 200 buildings, valued at $1,000,000, were de. stroyed; by another in 1828, in which 50 buildings were burned, valued at $130,000; and by another in the month of January, the present year, (1840) in which 150 build. ings were destroyed. The rail road to the Roanoke crosses, in its course, a rail road leading to Raleigh, the capital of the state, and also the Neuse and Tar rivers. FROM WELDON TO WASHINGTON City. There are two routes; one by the way of Norfolk, the other by the way of Richmond. A sketch of each is given : By the way of Norfolk—277 miles. Miles.' Miles. By rail road. New Point Comfort, 10 From Weldon to Ports Rappahannock river, 15 mouth,............. 77 | Off Outlet St. Mary's By steamboat. I river,.............. 42 Mouth of Elizabeth Off Port Tobacco,..... river............... 9 | Mouth of Potomac creek, 15 Mouth of James river, 6 Mount Vernon,... Mouth of York river, | Alexandria,.. Old Point Comfort, 20 | Washington, .......... 6 PORTSMOUTH, the terminating point of the rail road from the Roanoke river, is pleasantly located on the south- west side of Elizabeth river. It contains a court house, jail, 4 or 5 churches, and about 3000 inhabitants. The river is here crossed to NORFOLK, which is directly opposite, and 1 mile distant. It is the commercial capital of Virginia, and is situated NORFOLK. 27 immediately below the two branches of the Elizabeth, and 8 miles above Hampton Roads. Its population is about 12,000. The town lies low, and is in some places marshy, though the principal streets are well paved. Among the public buildings are a theatre, 3 banks, an academy, marine hospital, atheneum, and 6 churches. The harbor, which is capacious and safe, is defended by several forts. One is on Craney Island, near the mouth of Elizabcth river. There are also fortifications at Hamp- ton Roads, the principal of which is Furt Calhoun. The Navy Yard at Gosport, on the bank of the Eliza- beth river, ncarly opposite Norfolk, is deserving the atten- tion of strangers. A superb dock has been constructed at this placc, similar to that at Charlestown, near Boston. The length of the bottom, from the inner or foremost block, to that which is nearest the gates, is 206 fect, be- sides 50 feet of spare room-sufficient to hold a small vessel. The width of the dock, at the top, is 86 feet. As the tide riscs and falls but 3 or 4 feet, the water is pumped out, when necessary, by steam engines. Boats ply continually between Norfolk and Baltimore, a distance of 197 miles ; and also between Norfolk and Richmond, the capital of Virginia, 117 miles. * * On the latter route, Jamestown, 24 miles from Nor. folk, is passed, on the James river. It was founded in 1608, and was the first Eng.ish settlement in the United States. The site is very beautiful, and the settlement itself must have been but a few steps from the river. On each side there is a delighiful and variegated succes. sion of woodlands, meadows, pastures, and green fields ; in front appears the broad expanse of James river, with its multitude of white, gliding sails. The opposite hills MOUNT VERNON. From Norfolk to Washington City, the route is down the Elizabeth river till it enters the Chesapeake Bay- thence up the bay to the mouth of the Potomac, which is entered, the boat proce ding up the river, and passing Mount Vernon and Alexandria. Mount Vernon is on the south side of the river, 30 miles above the mouth of the Potomac creek. To this sacred spot the mind of every American recurs with the most enthusiastic devotion. He looks upon it as consecrated ground. Here the immortal Washington, after having conducted the American armies forth to victory and in. dependence, retired to enjoy the rich reward of his ser. vices in the warm hearted gratitude of his countrymen, and in the peaceful seclusion f private life. are picturesque : some are entirely covered with woods ; others, partly cleared, presenting, in the proper season, patches of white wavy corn. To increase the richncss of This scenery, here and there are distinguished the old and elegant mansions of the Virginia planters, like points of beauty in a fine picture. No vestige of Jamestown is now to be seen, except the ruins of a church steeple, about 30 feet high, and fringed to its summit with running ivy. Near by is a burying ground with its venerable tombstones, and spot. ted with dark green shrubbery and melancholy flowers. It looks like a lonely, unfrequented place, and there is something deeply interesting in contemplating these ves. tiges of an age gone by. The celebrated Pocahontas (daughter of the Indian chief Powhatan) was the tutelary guardian of this settle. ment; and some of her descendants are now living in Virginia. The late John Randolph used to claim to be of the number. ALEXANDRIA. 29 This place, till within a few years, was the residence of Judge Washington, the nephew of the General; but after his decease in 1829, the estate descended to a ne. phew of the Judge, John Adams Washington, who died in 1832; since which the estate has remained in the pos- session of the widow and children of the latter. The road to it is almost uninhabited, and difficult to trace. The house stands on an eminence, embracing a delightful view of the Potomac, with a rich and beautiful lawn ex. tending in front to the river. The TOMB OF WASHINGTON is visited as an interesting object of contemplation. The Old Tomb, so called, in which the remains were originally interred, is fast going to decay; but the new tomb, more remote from the riv. er, the construction of which was commenced by the General previous to his decease, and into which his re. mains were removed in 1830, and subsequently placed within a marble sarcophagus, is of solid and enduring ma- terials. Here slumber in peaceful silence the ashes of the great and patriotic Father of Liberty. No monument has yet been erected to his memory; and the only in- scription on the tomb is the following: “I am the resur. rection and the life.” ALEXANDRIA, an incorporated city, 9 miles farther, on the west bank of the river, is a place of extensive business and of fashionable resort during the sittings of congress. It contains a court house, 6 churches and a theological seminary. The Museum at this place, among other things, con- tains an elegant satin robe, scarlet on one side and white RICHMOND. 31 tion with the james river. It is one of the most hand. some and flourishing towns in the state, and enjoys im. portant commercial and manufacturing advantages. Its population is from 10 to 12,000. RICHMOND, the capital of Virginia, (22 miles farther,) is situated on the north bank of James river, directly at its lower falls, at the head of tide water, and 150 miles from its mouth. The town rises in an acclivity from the water, and presents a beautiful and highly picturesque appearance. A part of the town, on what is called Shoc- koe hill, overlooks the lower part; and from the capitol, which is on the greatest eminence, a most delightful pros- pect is had of the river and adjacent country. Besides the capitol, which is a handsome edifice, the city con. tains an elegant court house, a penitentiary, (which cost $135,000,) an alms house, 2 markets, an academy of fine arts, a female orphan asylum, 2 banks, and 12 church- es; one of which, built on the ruins of the theatre, in the conflagration of which 90 citizens perished, is very beau- tiful. The population of the city is about 18,000. MANCHESTER, directly opposite, is connected with Rich- mond by two substantial bridges, and is a flourishing place. FREDERICKSBURGH (64 miles from Richmond) is situa- ated on the south side of the Rappahannock river, 110 miles from its outlet into the Chesapeake Bay. It con. tains a court house, jail, academy, 2 banks, 5 churches, and about 600 dwelling houses; and being near the head of navigation, and surrounded by a fertile country, it en. joys an extensive and advantageous trade. 32 WASHINGTON CITY. Mount Vernon and ALEXANDRIA, on this route, have already been noticed at pp. 28, 29. WASHINGTON CITY Is 6 miles from Alexandria. As the seat of govern- ment of the Union, it is a place of much resort during the session of congress in the winter; but is mostly de. serted by strangers in the summer. It is situated on the Maryland side of the Potomac, and on the point of land formed by the junction of the Eastern Branch. The Dis. trict of Columbia in which the city is located, was ceded to the United States by Maryland and Virginia in 1790, and in 1800 it became the seat of the general govern. ment. This District is about 10 miles square, lying on both sides of the Potomac, and is under the immediate direction of congress. The Capitol stands on a high and lofty eminence, and commands a delightful prospect of the Pennsylvania Avenue, the President's House, Georgetown and the Po- tomac, the Public Offices, the Navy Yard, Greenleaf's Point, the bridge over the river, and the road to Alexan. dria and Mount Vernon. The capitol is built of white free stone, has two wings, and is a very magnificent edi. fice. The exterior exhibits a rusticated basement, of the height of the first story; the two other stories are com- prised in a Corinthian elevation of pilasters and columns the columns 30 feet in height, form a noble advancing portico on the east, 150 feet in extent-the centre of which is crowned with a pediment of 80 feet span : a re- WASHINGTON CITY. 33 ceding loggia of 100 feet extent, distinguishes the centre of the west front. The building is surrounded by a balustrade of stone, and covered with a lofty dome in the centre, and a flat dome on each wing. The Chamber of the House of Representatives is in the second story of the south wing, and is semicircular, in the form of the ancient Grecian theatre; the chord of the longest dimension is 96 feet, and the height to the high. est point of the domical ceiling is 60 feet. This room is surrounded by 24 columns of variegated native marble, or breccia, from the banks of the Potomac, with capitals of white Italian marble, carved after a specimen of the Corinthian order, still remaining among the ruins of Athens, which stand on a base of free stone, and support a magnificent dome painted in a very rich and splcndid style to represent that of the Pantheon of Rome, and ex. ecuted by an interesting young Italian artist, named Bo. gani, who died a few years ago. In the centre of this dome is erected, to admit the light from above, a hand. some cupola, from which is suspended a massy bronze gilt chandelier of immense weight, which reaches within 10 feet of the floor of the chamber. The speaker's chair is elevated and canopied, and on a level with the loggia or promenade for the members, consisting of columns and pilasters of marble and stone. Above this, and under a sweeping arch near the dome, is placed the model of a colossal figure of Liberty, and on the entablature beneath is sculptured an American Eagle. In front of the chair, and immediately over the entrance, stands a beautiful statue in marble, representing History recording the 34 WASHINGTON CITY. events of the nation. Between the columns is suspended fringed drapery of crimsoned moreens, festooned near the gallery, to limit the sound and assist the hcaring. A mag- nificient portrait of La Fayette, at full length, painted by a French artist, decorates a panel on one side the loggia. The Senate Chamber in the north wing, is of the same semicircular form, 75 feet in its greatest length, and 45 feet high ; a screen of Ionic columns, with capitals after those of the temple of Minerva Polias, support a gallery to the east, and form a loggia below, and a new gallery of iron pillars and railings of light and elegant structure projects from the circular walls : the dome ceiling is en- riched with square caissons of stucco. The walls are covered with straw colored drapery, be- tween small pilasters of marble in the wall. Columns of breccia, or Potomac marble, support the eastern gallery. The Rotunda comprehends the spacious area between the two wings of the structure, and is of a circular form. It is entirely of marble, (and so indeed is every perma- nent part of the capitol,) except the light doors covered with green baize that lead out of it, and the frame of the sky light above. The height of the dome soars beyond the roof, and it may well be imagined, is most imposing and sublime. The floor is beautifully paved, and the sonnd of a single voice, uttering words in an ordinary tone, reverberates aloft like the faint rumbling of distant thunder. In the niches designedly left about fifteen feet from the floor, are four sculptured pieces as large as life, designed to commemorate the aboriginal character, and some of the prominent events in the early history of the country. WASHINGTON CITY. 35 The scene of the first device is laid in 1773, and is de. signed to represent a fearful contest between Daniel Boon, an early settler in one of the western states, and an In- dian chief. The second represents the landing of the pilgrims at Plymouth in 1620. The third is a represen. tation of William Penn and two Indian chiefs in a treaty in 1682, under the memorable elm on the right bank of the Delaware, near Philadelphia. And the fourth repre. sents the narrow escape in 1606, of Capt. John Smith, the first successful adventurer in Virginia, from the up. lifted war-club of King Powhatan. The figure of Poca. hontas, in the attitude of supplicating the mercy of her father in behalf of the intended victim, is beautifully wrought, and the whole exhibits much elegance of design and workmanship. In the remaining niches, which are designed to be filled with paintings, are already placed the following, executed by the late Col. Trumbull, one of the aids of Gen. Washington: The Declaration of Inde. pendence; Surrender of Gen. Burgoyne; Surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown ; and the Resignation of General Washington at Annapolis, December 23, 1783. The fig- ures in these paintings are full length, and are said to be excellent likenesses. The designs and execution are ad- mirable, and exhibit the great and almost unrivalled tal. ent of the artist. The Library.-Passing from the Rotunda, westerly, along the gallery of the principal stairs, the library room door presents itself. This room is 92 feet long, 34 wide, and 36 high. It is divided into twelve arched alcoves, ornamented with Auted pilasters, copied from the pillars in the celebrated octagon tower at Athens. c2 36 WASHINGTON CITY. This extensive collection of books embraces at present about sixteen thousand volumes, in various languages. The library is well chosen. The classical department, in particular, comprises many rare books. Mr. Jeffer- son's arrangement of them is still preserved, founded, it is presumed, on Bacon's classification of science; and they are divided into chapters, according to the subjects to which they relate. Besides the principal rooms above mentioned, two others deserve notice, from the peculiarity of their architecture- the round apartment under the Rotunda, enclosing forty columns supporting ground arches, which form the floor of the Rotunda. This room is similar to the substructions of the European cathedrals, and may take the name of Crypt from them. The other room is used by the Su- preme Court of the United States, and is of the same style of architecture, with a bold and curious arched ceil- ing—the columns of these rooms are of massy Dorick, imitated from the temples of Pæstum. Twenty-five other rooms, of various sizes, are appropriated to the officers of the two houses of congress and of the Supreme Court, and 45 to the use of committees; they are all vaulted and floor. ed with brick and stone. The three principal stair cases are spacious and varied in their form ; these, with the vestibules and numerous corridors or passages, it would be difficult to describe intelligibly. We will only say, that they are in conformity to the dignity of the building and style of the parts already named. The East Front presents three marble figures, repre. senting the Genius of America, Hope and Justice. They WASHINGTON CITY. 37 are executed with much taste and judgment, and present an imposing appearance. . Fronting the capitol, towards the Pennsylvania Avenue, and within an oblong marble vase, is a naval monument, originally erected at the navy yard, in memory of the American officers who fell in the Tripolitan war. It is a simple column, wrought in Italy at the expense of the survivors. The President's House, which is also constructed of white free stone, two stories high, with the spacious build. ings near it for the accommodation of the heads of de- partments, make together an interesting spectacle for the visitant. Among other places of interest at and near Washing- ton, and which deserve the attention of visitants are the Navy Yard; the Columbian College, situate on a high range of ground north of the city and about a mile from the President's House, and the National Burying Ground ahout a mile southeast of the capitol. The ground on which Washington is built is airy and salubrious; and the city, from the extent of its territory, presents the appearance of several distinct villages. It contains a population of about 20,000. Its principal public houses are the National Hotel, the Indian Queen Hotel, and the Mansion Hotel. They are all located on the Pennsylvania Avenue. There is a bridge across the Potomac, opposite Wash. ington, which was completed in 1835. It is one mile in length, including the abutments. It has draws for the passage of vessels, 60 feet in width; so that its construc. 38 CHESAPEAKE AND OHIO CANAL. tion does not materially interfere with the navigation of the river. Its cost was about $130,000. Georgetown is on the same side of the Potomac with Washington, at the distance of 3 miles west of the capi. tol. It is very pleasantly situated, and is a place of con- siderable tradle. The country around it is richly diversi. fied, and the location of the Catholic MONASTERY is very delightful. It stands on the borders of " the heights," in the northwest part of the town, and overlooks the body of the town below. The enclosure embraces about one acre. The Academy, or High School for Ladies, is the most interesting appendage of the convent. It contains a boarding school of upwards of one hundred pupils, and a free or charity school of a much larger number of day scholars. The seminary is divided into four classes. The hall of the first class contains an extensive cabinet of minerals, to which many rare and valuable specimens have been presented by the officers of our navy, and by catholics of the eastern world. It also claims to have many sacred relics, such as shreds or scraps from the garments of nu- merous saints--fragments from the church and tomb of St. Peter, and of other saints-pieces of the wood of the cross, &c. &c. The CHESAPEAKE AND OHIO CANAL was commenced in 1828, but has not been prosecuted with the vigor at first contemplated. It was originally designed to extend from Georgetown, D. C., to near Pittsburgh, Penn., where it was to unite with the Pennsylvania canal and the Ohio CHESAPEAIR AND OHIO CANAL. 39 river, 360 miles in extent. It has, however, been com- pleted only to Cumberland, 185 miles. The rugged country through which it passes—the solid and beautiful masonry of the locks and aqueducts—all conspire to im. press upon the traveller a high scnse of the skill of the engineers and of the enterprize of the company, which has persevered in the work under so mauy appalling diffi. culties. The aqueducts over the Seneca and Monocacy crecks are perhaps not exceeded by any thing in this country, for beauty and lightness of design and solidity of construction. The wildness of the scenery around sets off to greater advantage these triumphs of art over nature. It is, however, from the Point of Rocks to Harper's Ferry, 12 miles, that the greatest difficulties have been encountered. For this distance the Baltimore and Ohio rail road runs parallel to, and in contact with the canal- the bank of the latter forming the bed of the former. Both works are carried for miles under the precipitous crags, many hundred feet high, and whose very founda- tions have been cut away to form a shell for the road, while the canal is made to encroach on the bed of the river. The scenery itself is grand and imposing, and whon viewed in connection with the monuments of hu. man genius and perseverance which are seen at the base of the cliffs, it assumes the character of sublimity. MONTICELLO. earth and trees. It forms a sublime spectacle when ex- amined from the margin of the river beneath. Monticello, on the regular route to the Springs, is distinguished as the former residence of Mr. Jefferson. The mansion is on elevated ground, and is reached by a circuitous road of about 2 miles in extent from Charlottes. ville, the seat of the University founded by Mr.J. From the peak on which the house stands, a grand and nearly illuminated view opens, of the thickly wooded hills and fertile vallies, which stretch out on either side. The University, with its dorne, porticoes and colonnades, looks like a fairy city in the plain ; Charlottesville seems to be directly beneath. No spot can be imagined as combin. | ing greater advantages of grandeur, healthfulness and se. clusion. The house is noble in its appearance ; two large columns support a portico, which extends from the wings. The apartments are neatly furnished and embellished with statues, busts, portraits and natural curiosities. At a short distance behind the mansion, in a quiet, shaded spot, the visitor sees a square enclosure, surrounded by a low un. mortared stone wall, which he enters by a gate. This is the family burial ground, containing 10 or 15 graves, none of them marked by epitaphs, and only a few distinguished by any memorial. On one side of this simple cemetery, is the resting place of the Patriot and Philosopher. The WARM SPRINGS which afford a very copious sup- ply of water, are used for bathing, and are at a tempera. ture of 97°. The Hot SPRINGS, which are 5 miles dis. tant, furnish only a small stream; but their temperature 42 BALTIMORE. is much greater, being 112°. They all flow into the Jackson, a source of the James river. The White SULPHUR SPRINGS, 29 miles farther, owing to their medicinal qualities and the salubrious air which is enjoyed within their locality, have become much cele. brated, and are annually visited by many for pleasure as well as for health during the summer months. FROM WASHINGTON TO BALTIMORE, 40 miles. The route is by the Washington rail road, which com. mences at the north-east part of the city, and in its course to Baltimore, approaches within sight of Bladensburgh, 4 miles from Washington; crosses the Patuxent river 13 miles farther; crosses the Patapsco river, on a noble and lofty viaduct, 15 miles farther, and unites with the Balti. more and Ohio rail road at Elkridge Landing, which lat. ter road is taken for a distance of 8 miles to Baltimore. The road is made in a very permanent and enduring manner; and though over a rough and undulating coun. try, its acclivities do not average more than 20 feet per mile. Its cost was about $1,500,000. BALTIMORE Is on the north side, and at the head of tide water on the Patapsco river, 14 miles above its entrance into the Chesapeake Bay. It has a population of about 100,000, and may be considered the third city in the union; whilst for its various manufactories and public buildings, orna- mental to the city and remarkable for their costliness, taste and commodiousness, it stands undoubtedly in the first BALTIMORE. rank for enterprise and public spirit. Within 20 miles around, the water power is almost incalculable. It drives at present more than 70 flour mills and several manufac. tories of cotton, cloth, powder, paper, iron, glass, steam engines, extensive chemical works, &c. Many of these may conveniently be visited by sojourners in the city, on foot or by short rides in the immediate vicinity. The city embraces within its limits, a court house, jail, penitentiary, lunatic asylum, 2 theatres, an exchange, an observatory, 2 museums, 5 market houses, 10 banks, gas works, (the first in this country for lighting streets and houses,) a public library, a medical college, and 47 houses of public worship. Most of these establishments are worthy of the atten. tion of tourists, but more especially the cathedral, the ex. change, the public fountains, of which there are four tastefully ornamented and giving a copious supply of pure spring water; the museums, the monuments, and the rail : roads. The Cathedral is built after the Grecian Tonic order. Its outward length is 190 feet, its width 177, and its height to the summit of the cross that surmounts the dome is 127 feet. It contains the largest organ in the United States, and two very splendid paintings—one the descent from the cross, by Paulin Guerin, a prescnt from Louis XVI.-another, presented by Louis XVII., repre- senting St. Louis, attended by his chaplain and armor. bearer, burying one of his officers slain before Tunis, as an encouragement to his officers and soldiers, who, for fear 44 BALTIMORE. of contagion, would have left their comrades to be de. voured by beasts and birds of prey.* The MERCHANTS' EXCHANGE, built by private subscrip- tien, is another monument to the public spirit of the citi- zens. This edifice, from Water to Second, fronting on Gay-street, is 255 by a depth on the two first of 141 feet, and is three stories high exclusive of the basement. In the centre is the great hall, 86 feet by 53, lighted from the dome, which is 90 feet from the floor. In this hall, to which they have acoess by three entrances from the streets, the merchants convene daily from 1 to 2 o'clock. The BATTLE MONUMENT, an elegant marble structure about 55 feet high, was commenced on the site of the old court house in Washington Square, in 1815, in mem. ory of those who, on the 12th and 13th of September in the preceding year, had fallen gallantly in defence of the city. The WASHINGTON MONUMENT, built of white marble, ornamental to the city and honorable to its inhabitants, stands on an elevation a little north of the compact part of the city. The base is 50 feet square and 23 high, on which is placed another square of about half the extent and elevation. On this is a column 20 feet in diameter at the base, and 14 at the top. The colossal statue of * It was in this Cathedral that the funeral honors were paid to Charles Carroll, of Carrollton, the last surviving signer of the Declaration of Independence. He died in the city on the 13th Nov. 1832, and his remains were conveyed for interment to the vault on the premises of the family mansion, about 16 miles distant. BALTIMORE. 45 Washington, the largest one in modern ages, is placed on the summit, 163 feet from the ground. The BALTIMORE AND Ohio Rail Road commences a short distance from the Washington turnpike road on West Pratt street, where the company have established a depot. Under the authority given by the City Council, a line of railway has also been laid from the termination of the main stem of the road, at the Depot, down Pratt street to the Basin, whence it is constructed to the City Block, and runs parallel with the entire water front of the city, communicating with the wharves, and intersect. ing all the principal streets which extend northwesterly and southerly, as far down as the public property south of Jones' Falls, at which place there have been conveyed to the company, by the Corporation of Baltimore, two squares of ground, favorably situated for the convenient and economical transaction of an extensive commerce. An uninterrupted communication is thus opened along the whole extent of the road, between the Port of Balti- more and the Potomac river at Harper's Ferry, a distance of 67 miles; which is extended, by means of the Win- chester and Potomac rail road, 30 miles farther in a southwesterly direction to Winchester, Virginia. There is also a lateral road, 2 or 3 miles long, from Harper's Ferry to the city of Frederick. A double track has been laid most of the way to Fred. erick, and the travelling and transportation have thus far fully equalled the anticipations of the stockholders. A ride as far at least as Ellicott's Mills, 13 miles from Baltimore, is considered almost a matter of course by strangers visiting the city. The scenery on the route, 46 BALTIMORE. being mostly in the vicinity of the Patapsco river, is pic. turesque and interesting. Among the works connected with the road, the Currollton Viaduct, over Gwynn's Falls, about a mile and a half from the city, is one of the most magnificent pieces of architecture in America. This bridge, built of granite, contains one arch of about 80 feet span and 40 feet in height, and is 312 feet in length from end to end of the parapets. The Jackson Bridge, is a single arch 109 feet long. The Deep Cut through a high and broad ridge of land, is about three fourths of a mile in length, its greatest depth 70 feet, and its width, at the summit of the ridge, 184 feet. The Great Embankment at Gidsby's Run, 5 miles from Baltimore, is nearly a mile in length, its greatest elevation 56 feet, and its greatest width 191 feet. Gads- by's Run Viaduct affords a passage to the waters of the run through the embankment. The arch, composed of dressed granite blocks, is of the extraordinary width of 120 feet from opening to opening. The Patterson Via. duct is an immense structure by which the road is carried to the opposite bank of the Patapsco. It is built of granite blocks, from 1 to 7 tons in weight, and its entire length is 375 feet. It has 4 beautiful arches, the two centre ones each a span of 55 feet, with extensive wings and water walls, abutments, &c. The height from the water to the crown of the arches is 30 feet. Besides these are the embankments at Stillhouse Run, two granite viaducts, the rock-side cutting at Buzzard's Rock, &c. The BALTIMURE AND SUSQUEHANNAH RAIL ROAD, ex. tending from Baltimore to York Haven, on the Susque. hannah river, a distance of 60 miles, is also a work of BALTIMORE. 47 much utility to the city, and worthy the attention of tourists. Public Houses. The City Hotel is one of the most splendid edifices of its kind in the union. It is centrally and most conveniently situated, presenting a front on Calvert-street of 117 feet, and running back 183. It con. tains 172 apartments, and was built expressly for a hotel, under the direction of its experienced proprietor, Mr. Barnum. In the basement of the building on Calvert- street is situated the Post Office, into which the traveller may deposit his letters by a conduit from the large Read. ing Room above. To all other conveniences combined in this establishment which travellers can desire, is added an observatory on the top of it, affording to its guests views of the Harbor and Fort M'Henry, the town, and the country seats that surround it. The Indian Queen, the next largest establishment, is well and liberally kept by Mr. Beltzhover, its obliging and popular tenant. The environs of Baltimore are generally much admired by visitants. A succession of elevated sites rising one above another, encircle it from the Philadelphia road on the east to the Washington turnpike on the west. From these eminences the stranger obtains, at a single coup d'ail, a view of the town and its numerous approaches by land and water. Some of these heights are crowned with private resi- dences, displaying all the taste and magnificence that characterize the seats of European opulence and refine. ment. Of these, the most expensively embellished and conspicuous is “Green Mount,” the elegant summer re. D2 BALTIMORE TO PHILADELPHIA, treat of a gentleman whose taste and hospitality happily correspond with his ample possessions. Oer FROM BALTIMORE TO PHILADELPHIA. There are two routes—one via Frenchtown and New. Castle ; and the other via Havre-de-Grace and Wilming. ton. We subjoin a sketch of both. By way of Frenchtown and New.Castle—115 miles. The route is by steamboat and rail road, as follows: Miles Miles. By steamboat. By rail road From Baltimore to Fort From Frenchtown, Md. M’Henry,.......... 3 to New-Castle, Del.. 16 Sparrow's Point,.... 6 By steamboat. North Point,.......... 4 Christiana Creek, Del.. 5 Miller's Island,... 8 Marcus Hook, Penn... Pool's Island,... 8 Chester, ....... Grove Point,...... 16 | Lazaretto, ..... Turkey Point,........ 6 Fort Mifflin,.... Frenchtown, ......... 13 | Philadelphia, ..... The course of the steamboat is down the Patapsco river to its entrance into the Chesapeake Bay. This Bay is 180 miles long, and varies from 10 to 25 miles in breadth, dividing the states of Virginia and Maryland into two parts, called the castern and western shores. It has nu- merous commodious harbors, and affords a safe navigation. Among the waters which flow into it, besides the Potaps- co, are the Susquehannah, Potomac, Rappahannock, York and James rivers. North Point, 13 miles from Baltimore, is the spot where the British troops landed in September, 1814, and where a battle was fought, simultaneous with a naval at. tack on Fort M'Henry. The engagement resulted in O er en VIA NEW-CASTLE. the defeat of the British, and the death of their comman. der, Gen. Ross. From this point until reaching Turkey Point, at the mouth of Elk river, the Chesapeake presents a broad ex- panse and beautiful sheet of water, interspersed with an occasional island; of which Pool's is the largest and the most picturesque. On approaching the mouth of Elk river, the broad entrance of the Susquehannah is scen at the left; near which is discerned the village of Havre.de. Grace, which was burnt during the last war. Eight miles from Turkey Point, up the Elk river, the entrance of Back creek, connected with the Chesapeake and Del. aware Canal, a very expensive and magnificent work, is seen at the right. At Frenchtown, passengers leave the steamboat (their baggage having been previously placed in baggage wag. gons) and take the carriages of the Rail Road, which ex- tends to New.Castle, on the Delaware, a distance of 16 miles, being but 853 yards more than would be a perfect. ly straight line drawn from one to the other. At two points the excavation was attended with great difficul. ty and expense, especially at the western termination of the road, where the cutting was 37 feet deep, through a solid mass of tough red and black clay for a considerable distance. The total cost of the New Castle and French Town rail road, including the land for its location, wharves, land for depots at both ends, locomotive engines, passen. ger and burthen cars sufficient to put it in complete ope- ration, with a single track and the requisite number of 50 BALTIMORE TO PHILADELPHIA. turn outs, has been estimated at about four hundred thou. sand dollars. The ancient town of New Castle, at which the road terminates, still retains one of its original buildings, the date of which, in figures of iron on the gable end, shows that it was erected in 1687. The town was settled by the Swedes, many of whose descendants still continue to reside there, and retain the plain frank manners and think- ing habits of their ancestors. At New Castle, a steamboat is again taken, which pro- ceeds up the Delaware 35 miles, passing the city of Wil. mington, which is seen at a distance on the left, and the villages of Chester, Lazaretto, Fort Mifflin on an island in the Delaware, and Gloucester, to Philadelphia. Miles. 11 18 From Baltimore to Philadelphia, via Havre de Grace and Wilmington—94 miles. The route is by rail road, as follows: Miles. From Baltimore to Elkton,....... Hayre De Grace,..... 32 Wilmington,...... Port Deposit, ........ 5 Philadelphia, ........ 28 Gunpowder river, emptying into the Chesapeake Bay, is crossed on a bridge 1 mile long, 11 miles from Balti- more ; and Bush river, 8 miles further, is crossed in a similar manner. HAVRE De Grace, (Md.) 32 miles from Baltimore, is on the west side of the Susquehannah river, at its conflu. cnce with the Chesapeake. It contains a bank, and is a place of some trade. Between Havre De Grace and Port Deposit, located at the lowest falls of the Susquehannah, the river is cross. VIA WILMINGTON. ed in a steamboat, in which time and opportunity are given to passengers for refreshment. Elkton, the capital of Cecil county, Md., is located at the forks of the Elk river, 13 miles above its entrance into the Chesapeake Bay. The tide flows up to the town, affording a navigable intercourse with Baltimore, Nor- folk, &c. The City of WILMINGTON, 18 miles farther, is a port of entry, and the largest town in the state of Delaware. It is situated between Christiana and Brandywine creeks, one mile above their confluence, and two miles west of the Delaware river. Its position is high, airy and pleas. ant, and its streets are laid out with much regularity and taste. The facilities afforded here make it an important manufacturing town; it having some of the finest flour. ing mills and cotton factories in the union. It contains from 10 to 12,000 inhabitants, a spacious alms house, 3 banks, a United States arsenal, and 9 churches. An an. cient building, called the old Swedish church, crected in 1698, stands near the Christiana crcek in this town; op. posite to which is an ancient church yard, uscd by the first settlers of the place. It contains a few tomb stones, the inscriptions of which are nearly defaced by the hand of timc. Within five miles of the city, in a highly romantic and rural country, are the Brandywine and Chalybeate Springs. It is a place of very considerable resort for health and pleasure during the warm season. 52 PHILADELPHIA. PHILADELPHIA, The capital of Pennsylvania, is 28 miles from Wil- mington. It stands on the west bank of the Delaware riv. er, five miles from its confluence with the Schuylkill, which forms its western boundary. The city was founded in 1682, and incorporated in 1701. The charter being ab. rogated at the revolution, it remained under a provincial government till 1789, when it was incorporated a second time. Its population in 1830, including its suburbs, was 167,811. It is now about 220,000. The city is built on streets from 50 to 100 feet in width, running parallel and at right angles to each other. They are handsomely paved and are kept remarkably clean. The houses ex. hibit an appearance of neatness, uniformity and commo- diousness, and many of them are ornamented with white marble. Opposite the city, the Delaware, which is 90 miles distant from the sea, is about a mile wide, and is navigable for ships of a large size. The most conspicu. ous buildings are the churches, the state house, the United States and Pennsylvania Banks, the Girard Bank, and the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb. The Bank of the United States was established in the year 1816, with a capital of $35,000,000; but its charter not having been renewed at its expiration in 1836, it was incorporated by the state of Pennsylvania in the early part of that year. The banking house is a splendid structure, built on the plan of the Parthenon at Athens, and is situated on a north and south direction, fronting on Chesnut and Li- brary streets, having 8 gigantic fluted columns, embrac. ing the whole front. From each of the fronts are spa. PHILADELPHIA. 53 . cious porticos. The whole length of the edifice is 161 feet, and its breadth in front 87 feet. The main entrance is from Chesnut street, by a flight of marble steps. There are in this city 80 houses for public worship ; 16 banks, a custom house, an exchange, and a chamber of commerce. The New BANK OF PENNSYLVANIA, in Chesnut street, is an extensive and elegant edifice of marble, of the Ionic order, and constructed after the model of the ancient temple of the muses, on the Ilyssus. The PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL, in Pine street, is one of the oldest and most respectable institutions of that de. scription in the union. INDEPENDENCE Hall, in which the continental congress sat, and from whence the Declaration of Independence issued, is still standing. It is located in Chesnut street, is built of brick, comprising a centre and two wings, and has undergone no material alteration since its first erec- tion. It is surmounted by a dome, having a clock, the dial of which being glass, is illuminated at night until 10 or 11 o'clock, showing the hour and minutes until that time. The front receding some distance from the street, affords a space for an ample walk, which is shaded by two elegant rows of trees. East of the main entrance, in the front room, the sessions of congress were held, and the question of independence decided. The declaration was first publicly read from the balcony fronting the spacious park in the rear.. The ARCADE contains Peale's Museum, one of the best in the United States, 'comprising the host complete ckel. RA PHILADELPHIA. eton of the Mammoth perhaps in the world. It was found in Ulster county, New-York. The ACADEMY OF Fine Arts, in Chesnut-street, con. tains a large number of paintings, several of which are the property of Joseph Bonaparte. Among these is one, executed by David, representing Napoleon crossing the Alps. Another is a full length portrait of Joseph himself, as king of Spain. The U. S. Mint, established here, is a new and hand. some edifice recently constructed for that purpose. The City LIBRARY was first established through the enterprise and influence of FRANKLIN in 1731. It is located in a neat and ornamental edifice on the east side of Fifth street, opposite the State House Square, and contains about 24,000 volumes, besides the Loganian library of ancient classics of about 11,000 volumes, under the same roof. The ATHENEUM, on the second floor of the Philosophical Hall in Fifth-street, contains 5300 volumes and a variety of newspapers from various parts of the union. There are also deposited here a series of rare and valuable pamphlets, forming 100 volumes, which belonged to Doct. Franklin ; many of which are enriched with his MS. notes. Strangers are admitted to this institution, on being introduced by a subscriber, and a register of their names is kept The American Philosophical Society was founded in 1743, principally by the exertions of Doct. Franklin. The members have a large and commodious building on a part of tủe State House Squąrę, in which they have depositeg about 5000 volumea of valuable books, and a Consumo PHILADELPHIA. 55 en collection of objects of natural history, consisting princi. pally of minerals and fossil remains. The UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA in situated in Ninth- street, between Chesnut and Market streets. It was founded in 1750, and is in a highly prosperous and flour ishing condition. GIRARD COLLEGE. This splendid edifice is situated on the Ridge Road, on a site owned by the late Stephen Girard, and devised by him for that purpose. To his munificence, indeed, are the public indebted for the struc- ture and for a fund for its maintenance. The building is 111 by 169 feet, 3 stories high, and is surrounded by a portico 21 feet wide, giving to the whole a neatness and elegance highly creditable to the taste of those who had the management of its construction. Wills' HOSPITAL, erected pursuant to the will of the late James Wills, for the reception of the lame and blind, is located on Race street, between Schuylkill Fourth and Fifth streets, and is a handsome stone edifice, 80 feet in front. THE UNITED STATES' NAVAL Asylum is situated on the river Schuylkill, a short distance below the junction of South street with Gray's ferry road. It is 385 feet in front, including a central building, and is an imposing and chaste edifice. It is designed as a place of permanent abode for such of the officers, seamen and marines of the navy as may need a home in their retirement from its ser. vice. It is sufficiently capacious to accommodate 400. The New Alms HOUSE consists of four distinct edifices disposed at right angles with one another, enclosing an interior space of 700 by 500 feet. The location of :56 PHILADELPHIA. these buildings is on the west bank of the Schuylkill river. The grounds appended to the establishment are spacious, and the arrangements such as might be antici. pated from the hospitality and benevolence for which the inhabitants of this city have become so proverbial. The PHILADELPHIA Exchange is situated on a triangular piece of ground, bounded by Third, Walnut and Dock streets, and is one of the most beautiful specimens of Grecian architecture ever executed in America, repre. senting in its appearanee the celebrated Lantern of Demosthenes at Athens. The basement contains the post office and several insurance and other offices. The exchange room, which is bold and effective, occupies the eastern end of the principal story, and is approached by steps on each side of the semicircular basement, and from the hall in the basement story. The eastern portico forms an interesting promenade for those who visit the Exchange. From it may be seen the shipping at Wal. nnt street wharf, the custom house, the Girard bank, and the Pennsylvania bank. Omnibuses can be taken from this point at all times for various parts of the city. Besides the public buildings already noticed, are the Orphan Asylum, in Cherry street; the Pennsylvania In. stitution for the Blind, Race street ; Orphan Asylum of St. Joseph's, Spruce street; Pennsylvania Institution for the Deaf and Dumb, on Broad and Pine streets; Hall of the Franklin Institute, Seventh street; Academy of Natural Sciences, Twelfth street; Jefferson College, Tenth street ; Musical Fund Hall, Locust street ; The. atre, Walnut street; Theatre, Arch street; Museum, Eighth and Sansom streets, &c. PHILADELPHIA. 57 Of the public works of Philadelphia, there are none of which its inhabitants are more justly proud than those at Fair Mount, by which the city is supplied with water of the best quality in the greatest plenty. Fair Mount is in the rear of the city, upon the bank of the Schuylkill, the neighborhood of which affords a variety of romantic scenery. The situation is such as peculiarly adapts it for the purpose to which it has been devoted. The reservoirs are situated on the top of a hill rising from the river, a part of it perpendicular rock, upwards of one hundred feet. The ascent from the river to the reservoir is by a flight of substantial steps, with resting places. The res- ervoirs, which are surrounded with a fence, outside of which is a gravelled walk, contain upwards of twelve mil- lions of gallons, supplying the city through between 15 and 20 miles of pipes. The water is raised by machinery propelled by the Schuylkill. The speed of the wheels may be graduated to any required number of revolutions per mi. nute; and if all are in motion, they will raise 7,000,000 gallons in 24 hours. The whole expense of these works, including estimated cost of works abandoned, was $1,- 783,000. That required to keep them in operation is comparatively trifling. The quantity of water thus dis- seminated through the city, is not only sufficient for every family, but is used to wash the streets. It is of immense service in case of fire, as it is only necessay to screw the hose to hydrants, which are placed at convenient dis- tances, to secure a constant stream of sufficient force to reach an ordinary height. 58 PHILADELPHIA. The New PENITENTIARY, located on elevated ground near the city, is designed to carry the principle of solitary confinement completely into effect. Ten acres of land are occupied for the purpose, forming a square of 650 feet each way, and enclosed by massy walls of granite 35 feet high, with towers and battlements. The prison is in the centre of the square, and is admirably calculated for the purpose for which it was designed. The expense incurred in its erection was upwards of $300,000. The principal Hotels in the city are the United States Hotel, opposite the U. S. Bank in Chesnut street; Con. gress Hall, Chesnut street, near Third ; Tremont House, between Third and Fourth streets ; City Hotel, Third street, between Market and Arch; North American Ho- tel, Chesnut street, between Sixth and Seventh ; Mansion House Hotel, Third street, between Walnut and Spruce; Commercial Hotel, Chesnut street; Indian Queen Ho- tel, Fourth street ; Washington Hotel, do. ; Philadelphia Hotel, Second street; Third Street House, Third street; Broad Street House, Broad street; Philadelphia House, Chesnut street. The banks of the Schuylkill, near Philadelphia, contain numerous elegant country seats, and several public build. ings. Among the private residences, none are perhaps more justly admired than that of Henry Pratt, Esq. on Lemon Hill. The Mansion House is situated on the eastern bank of the river, and directly above the Fair Mount Water Works, about a mile from the city. Con- nected with the mansion are gardens of the most exten. sive kind, laid out in a style of much elegance and taste. To these gardens respectable citizens and strangers have PENNSYLVANIA CANALS. 59 free access; and a ride to them is among the various pleasant excursions in the vicinity of the city. The Shot Tower of Mr. Beck is also an object of much curiosity to strangers visiting Philadelphia. It stands on the east bank of the Schuylkill, in the rear of the city, and is a lofty edifice, from the top of which a very extensive view can be had of the surrounding country. The Penn MONUMENT, commemorative of the spot where William Penn, the founder of the colony of Penn. sylvania, made a treaty with the aborigines, is near the intersection of Beach and Hanover streets. INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. The Union CANAL commences near Reading, on the Schuylkill river, 51 miles, northwest of Philadelphia, and extends thence in a westerly direction to Lebanon, and thence along the Swatara creek to Middletown, on the Susquehannah river, nine miles below Harrisburgh, the seat of government of the state. The length of the ca. nal is 79 miles; and by the extension of a branch of about 7 miles, and the construction of a rail road of 4 miles, a communication is had to the “Coal Region.” - By means of the Union Canal and the Schuylkill slack water navigation, there is also a communication from Phil. adelphia to the Susquehannah river; and this communi. cation is greatly extended by the PENNSYLVANIA Canal, which commences at Columbia, 82 miles northwest of Philadelphia, the terminating point of the Columbia rail road from that city, and unites with the Union Canal at Middletown, 18 miles farther. From , E 2 60 PENNSYLVANIA CANALS. thence it proceeds in a westerly direction to the Juniata- thence up that river to the foot of the Alleghany moun. tains, which are crossed by a rail road, 37 miles long; at the end of which the canal re-commences, uniting with the Alleghany and Ohio rivers at Pittsburg. The whole length of this canal, including the Columbia rail road and the rail road across the mountains, is 395 miles. After reaching the Juniata, a singularly romantic and beautiful stream, the canal winds along a gentle and practicable acclivity, following the bed of the river for nearly a hun- dred miles. Two mighty ranges of mountains rise from the limpid Juniata, like two green leaves of an immense opening volume. These mountains, apparently arranged to the course of this stream, seem to lie almost at right angles to the great parallel ridges. The Juniata finds a passage by a very equable and gentle declivity through all the mountains except the last ridge that parts its waters from those of the Ohio. More beautiful forms of moun. tains than those which skirt this river can no where be seen. Sometimes, for many miles together, they rise, smooth, verdant and unbroken, by equable slopes, from the very verge of the stream to the height of twelve hundred feet; and here, apparently, when the fountains of the great deep were broken up, the rocky summits of the mountains were dismembered at the same time. For miles together, and in many places the whole sides of the grand slope, from summit to base, are strown with large fragments of smooth building stone; and it is inconceiva. ble how smoothly and completely they line the sides of these mighty hills. Layers of these rocks cover thousands of acres, for a depth apparently of 40 or 50 feet; and for PENNSYLVANIA CANALS. 61 a considerable distance the road is formed by the removal of these layers along the sides of the mountains, the car. riage winding its way many hundred feet above the canal, which is perpendicularly below. In other places, more recent slides of the earth and rocks from the summits of the mountains have cut away a visible and uniform path, sweeping trees and every ob- stacle before it, until the spoils are accumulated at the foot of the mountains. Indeed every foot of this route of a hundred miles is enriched with scenery of unexampled sublimity; and we can imagine no higher treat for the tourist than a passage along its banks, connected with the crossing of the Alleghanies, and a trip to Pittsburg. In addition to the foregoing, the state has completed a canal from the mouth of the Juniata up the Susquehan. nah to the forks at Northumberland, 39 miles; from Northumberland to Dunnstown, 66 miles; from North- umberland to Nanticoke falls, 61 miles, and a further ex- tension of the latter 15 miles. Also a canal from Bristol to Easton on the Delaware river, 60 miles ; and about 74 miles of a canal which is to extend from Pittsburg on the Ohio river to Erie, on the lake of that name. The following canals belong to private incorporations : The Union canal, already noticed at p. 59; the Schuylkill canal, from Philadelphia up the Schuylkill river, inter- secting the Union canal at Reading, to the Schuylkill coal mines at Mount Carbon-length, including 46 miles of slack water in the river, 108 miles ; the Lehigh canal, from Easton on the Delaware, up the Lehigh river to the coal mines at Mauch Chunk, and from thence to Stod. dartsville-length 46 miles ; a part of the Hudson and PHILADELPHIA TO PITTSBURG. Delaware canal, from Honesdale on the Lackawaxen to the mouth of that stream-about 20 miles ; Conestoga Navigation, an improvement of the Conestoga creek by locks and dams, from its mouth to the city of Lancaster, 18 miles; and the Codorus Navigation, an impro vement of the Codorus creek from its mouth to the borough of York, 11 miles. Making the total distance of canal nav- igation now in use in the state about 800 miles. The state has also constructed the Columbia, Allegha- ny Portage, and Norristown rail roads, which are noticed in subsequent pages of this work. FROM PHILADELPHIA TO PITTSBURG, PA. By rail road and canal.—391 miles. The intermediate distances are as follow : Miles. Miles. By rail road. Port Dauphin,... 3 113 Fair Mount,..... 1 Duncanie Duncan's Island, 9 122 Viaduct over Newport, ....... 10 132 Schuylkill, .... 2 | Thompsontown,.. 11 143 Buck Tavern,.... 8 11 Mexico, ........ 7 150 Spread Eagle,... 16 | Mifflintown,..... 4 154 Paoli,........... 21 | Lewistown,..... 14 168 Warren, ........ 22 | Waynesburgh, ... 14 182 Valley Creek,.... 29 | Aughwick FPS,... 12 194 Downingtown,... 32 | Huntingdon,..... 17 211 Coatesville,...... 8 40 Petersburg,...... 7 218 Gap Tavern,.... 51 | Alexandria,...... 7 225 Mine Ridge,..... 52 Williamsburgh, .. 12 237 Mill Creek,..... 57 | Frankstown,..... 10 247 Soudersburgh,... 3 60 | Hollidaysburg, ... 3 250 Lancaster, ...... By rail road. Mountjoy,....... 81 Across Alleghany Middletown,..... 15 96 | Mountains to Harrisburgh,..... 9 105 Johnstown,.... 37 287 By canal. By canal. Blue Mt, Gap,... 5 110 Laurel Hill,. ... 7 294 ܟܐ ܤ ܗ ܘ ܝ ܙܢ ܝܘ ܤܚܝܙܘ ܒܝ ܩܫܩ 69 PHILADELPHIA TO PITTSBURG. 63 le....... Miles. Miles. Lockport,....... 10 304 | Leechburg, ..... 10 355 Chesnut Hill,.... 5 309 Alleghany Aque- Blainsvil .. 8 317 | duct,...... .... 3 358 Saltzburg,....... 16 .. 16 333 Logan's Ferry,... 15 373 Warrentown,.... 12 345 Pittsburg,....... 18 391 The Columbia Rail Road, which composes a part of this route, commences at the depot at the intersection of Vine and Broad streets, and extends up the valley of the Schuylkill through Pratt's Garden to the river, which is crossed 3 miles from the city, on a handsome viaduct 1045 feet long, 41 feet wide, and 30 feet above the sur- face of the water. Immediately succeeding the viaduct is an inclined plane 2805 feet long, rising 1 foot in 15, which is surmounted by means of a stationary steam en- gine, placed at the head. The line of the road passes from thence over an undulating surface, requiring heavy excavations and embankments, through portions of Phila. delphia, Montgomery and Delaware counties, till it reach- es the viaduct of Valley creek, which is a wooden struc. ture about 600 feet long, supported on piers from 35 to 55 feet high. Immediately beyond the viaduct the trav. eller catches the first glimpse of the Great Chester Val- ley, long esteemed to be one of the most beautiful and fertile sections of the state. At the distance of 21 miles from Philadelphia, the line is intersected by a branch road leading to Westchester, the cost of which was about $85,000. At 30 miles, a little to the south of Downing- town, the road crosses the East Brandywine by a viaduct 465 feet long and 25 feet high. Some distance farther, the line crosses the West Brandywine by a viaduct 835 feet long and 72 feet above the surface of the water. 64 PHILADELPHIA TO PITTSBURG. Still ascending the main valley of Chester, the line reach- es the summit, which divides it from that of Lancaster. This place is known as the Deep Cut through Mine Hill. Thence descending the Lancaster valley, the road crosses the Pequa, by a viaduct 150 feet long and 24 feet high and soon after, Mill creek, by a similar construction 550 feet long and 40 feet high. Thence it follows the gener. al features of the country till it reaches the immense via- duct over Conestoga river. The piers are 60 feet above the surface of the water, and the whole length of the platform 1412 feet. Not long after, the road enters Lan- caster by a high embankment, the materials of which were obtained from the deep rock cutting in the town. LANCASTER, 69 miles from Philadelphia, is an incorpor- ated city and one of the oldest towns in the state. It is pleasantly situated on the side of a hill one and a half miles west of Conestoga creek, which falls into the Sus- quehannah 9 miles below. The city contains several handsome public buildings and numerous manufactories, and is surrounded by a beautiful and highly cultivated country. Its population is between 7 and 8000. The Columbia rail road is continued 13 miles from this place to the village of Columbia, on the Susquehannah river, where by means of an inclined plane 1800 feet long, it communicates with the eastern division of the Penn. sylvania canal. The Lancaster and Harrisburgh rail road, however, is usually taken by passengers for Pittsburgh. It reaches HARRISBURGH in a distance of 36 miles. This village, which contains the capitol of the state, is regularly laid out on the east bank of the Susquehannah, over which a PHILADELPHIA TO PITTSBURG. 65 bridge is erected, one mile long. The village contains 7 or 8 public buildings, as many churches, and about 4500 inhabitants. The capitol is handsomely situated on an eminence, commanding a fine view of the town, river and surrounding country. To the north the mountain scene- ry is imposing, and the opening or gap through which the river passes presents a beautiful appearance. The build- ing in which the legislature meets is an extensive struc- ture of brick, in the centre of which is a semicircular portico or entrance, which is approached by a fight of steps. The roof of the portico is supported by six mass- ive columns, rising to the height of the main building. From the portico there is an entrance into the rotunda or hall of the building which separates the chambers of the two houses. To the right is the hall of representatives to the left that of the senate. Immediately in front, as you enter the first hall, is the speaker's chair, elevated upon a rostrum above those of the clerks, which derives an interest from the fact that it is the same chair in which John Hancock first sat when he was chosen Presi. dent of the continental congress. The PENNSYLVANIA Canal, which is here taken, has already been noticed at p. 59. It passes along the bank of the Susquehannah to its junction with the Juniata ; and for miles the traveller is floated between the river and its lofty shore, separated from the former only by the breadth of the tow path, which, on the side towards the river, is solid and massive masonry. On the other side of the canal runs the turnpike, and so scant is the inter- val between the river and the shore, that for the passage of these thoroughfares of trade and travel, the founda- 66 PHILADELPHIA TO PITTSBURG. tions of the hills have been cut away, and the traveller sails along their bases, with the precipitous crags impend- ing many hundred feet above him. The whole number of locks on this canal are 111-dams, 18-aqueducts, 33. LEWISTOWN, 53 miles from Harrisburgh, is the capital of Mifflin county, and is the most important village pass- ed on the route. It contains a population of 1500 or 2000 inhabitants. On reaching Hollidaysburgh, the termination of the canal at the foot of the Alleghany mountains, the trav. eller prepares to cross the mighty division of the east and west-not in a lumbering coach drawn by wearied hors- es--but in a rail road carriage drawn by steam. The change from the sluggish motion of the boat to the speed of the car is very acceptable, and the rail road over the mountains proves an agreeable interlude to the monotony of a canal passage. The aggregate of ascent and descent at this point is 2570 feet-1398 of which is on the eastern and 1172 is on the western side of the mountain. The ascent is by 5 inclined planes, of nearly a mile each in length. On the summit, in a solitude like that of St. Bernard upon the Alps, stands a fine mansion, whose spacious accommoda- tions and welcome cheer invite an hour's delay. Before commencing the descent of the mountain, the traveller comes to the celebrated tunnel, hewn through the solid rock, 870 feet long by 20 feet in height, the rumbling of the cars through which is like the reverberation of distant thunder. The descent is then effected like the ascent, by means of 5 inclined planes of about a mile each. After leaving the fourth, the road crosses a stream PHILADELPHIA TO PITTSBURG. 67 upon a magnificent specimen of pontic architecture, 70 feet above the water, which it spans with a single arch of 80 feet. It is beautifully constructed of hewn stone, and curiously contrasts with the wildness of the sur- rounding scenery. The last plane being descended, the tourist soon finds himself at the termination of the rail road in the village of Johnstown, 37 miles from its com- mencement. Here a packet is again taken, which enters the western division of the Pennsylvania canal; which follows the Conemaugh river for a distance of 78 miles, until it intersects with the Alleghany, which terminates at Pittsburg. It is 104 miles long, has 64 locks, 10 dams, 2 tunnels, 16 aqueducts, 94 culverts, and 152 bridges. After leaving Johnstown, the canal passes through a tunnel more extensive than the one on the Portage rail road. The height of the hill which it per- forates is 250, and the length of the tunnel 917 feet. The traveller, indeed, passes under an improved farm, the well attached to which is directly over the tunnel ! The time employed in reaching Pittsburg from Hol- lidaysburgh is about 30 hours; and from Philadelphia about 4 1-2 days. Fare for the whole distance, including meals, about $15. PHILADELPHIA TO PITTSBURG. 10 105 | Stoystown,...... FROM PHILADELPHIA TO PITTSBURG, By rail road and stage-305 miles. INTERMEDIATE DISTANCES. Miles. Miles. By rail road. Bedford,........ 31 206 To Harrisburgh, as no. Shellsburg,....... 9 215 ticed at p. 62,.. 105 19 234 Chambersburgh... 51 156 Laughlintown,... 16 250 By stages. Greensburg,..... 23 273 M'Connelstown,.. 19 175 Pittsburg, ....... 32 305 This route is performed in about 3 1-2 days. PITTSBURG, an incorporated city, is situated on a beau, tiful plain, on a broad point of land, where the confluence of the Alleghany and Monongahela forms the Ohio river. The population of the city proper is about 18,000, and, including the suburbs, about 28,000. It is compactly, and in some places handsomely built ; though the uni- versal use of pit coal for manufacturing and culinary purposes, has so far blackened the exterior of every build. ing, as to give the town a gloomy appearance. Its posi- tion and advantages, however, will continue to render it a place of attraction for builders and capitalists; and it has already been very appropriately termed the Birming. ham of America, there being not less that 300 manufac- turing establishments, many of which are very extensive. Independently of the immense amount of iron wrought at this place, boat and steamboat building have been pursued on a greater scale than in any other town in the western country. Small boats are continually departing down the river at all seasons, when the waters will admit. In moderate stages, great numbers of steamboats arrive and THE COAL MINES. 69 depart. The city has also immense advantages of artifi- cial as well as natural water communications. Besides the Pennsylvania canal, already described, which termin- ates here, another canal is in progress to connect it with Lake Erie through Meadville, and another proposed to the mouth of the Mohoning, where it will connect with a branch of the Ohio and Erie canal from its summit head. Among the public buildings in Pittsburg are 13 church- es, a university, high school, exchange, bank and museum. From Pittsburg, steamboats may be taken for Cincin- nati, Ohio, 465 miles ; to Louisville, Ky., 175 miles far. ther; or to New Orleans, 1400 miles farther. The time employed in reaching the latter place is about 12 days, and the usual expenses from $40 to $60. THE COAL MINES. Since the discovery and opening of the extensive coal mines in Pennsylvania, and the great internal improve- ments which have been made in the state, providing an easy communication to them, it has become almost a matter of course to embrace them within the tour of the middle and northern states. The Lehigh and Schuylkill, the principal mines already explored, are located from 100 to 120 miles in a northeasterly direction from Philadel- phia, between a chain of mountains denominated the Blue Ridge and the Susquehannah river. The anthracite district is principally occupied by mountains running par- allel to the Blue Ridge, often broad with table land sum- inits, and rising generally about 1500 feet above the ocean. These summits, by repeated fires, have been principally divested of timber, and are generally too stony 70 THE COAL MINES. for tillage. The beds and veins of anthracite range from northeast to southwest, and may often be traced for a considerable distance by the compass; but they have been found in the greatest quantity in sections most accessible by water. Extensive beds and veins range from the Lehigh to the Susquehannah, crossing the head waters of the Schylkill and Swatara about 10 miles north. west of the Blue Ridge. They are also found contiguous to the Susquehannah and Lackawana. But in no part of the district does the anthracite exist in such appa- rently inexhaustible beds as in the vicinity of Mauch Chunk, a village situated on the Lehigh, 35 miles from Easton, and 108 by canal from Philadelphia. The coal is there excavated on the flat summit of a mountain that rises near 1500 feet above the ocean. It is disclosed for several miles on the summit wherever excavations have been made, and is indicated in many places by coal slate in a pulverulent state, on the surface. The mountain rises with steep acclivity, particularly on the northwest side, and when penetrated at various altitudes, discloses coal at about the same distance from the surface. In the deep excavations made on the summit, no termination of the coal has been found, and it is not improbable that anthracite forms the nucleus of the mountain for a consid. erable distance. Next to Mauch Chunk, Mount Carbon, or Pottsville, situated at the head of the Schuylkill canal, has been the principal source of the supply of anthracite. Many large veins are worked within three miles of the land. ing; and some have been opened seven miles to the northeast, in the direction of the Lehigh beds. On al. THE COAL MINES. 71 most every eminence adjacent to Pottsville, indications of coal are disclosed. The veins generally run in a north. east direction, with an inclination of about 45 degrees, and are from 3 to 9 feet in thickness. Commencing at or near the surface, they penetrate to an unknown depth, and can often be traced on hills for a considerable dis. tance by sounding in a northeast or southwest direction. Some veins have been wrought to a depth of 200 feet without a necessity for draining, the inclined slate roof shielding them from water. On the extensive tract occupied by the New York company, five miles from Pottsville, there are also inex. haustible coal beds, in the excavating of which from 300 to 400 hands are employed. Southwest of Pottsville the coal becomes more easily ignited, and that at Peter's mountain, a few miles cast of Dansville, is said to contain bitumen. It is probable that the coal in that vicinity cimbraces, like the Wilkesbarre, much more inflamable gas than the Lehigh, which may have led to the supposition that it was bituninous. Anthracite is found on several of the streams that dis- charge into the Susquehannah, on its eastern side. A large bed exists a few miles easterly from Berwick, and numerous veins occur from an elevated part of the Wilkes- barre mountain, to the Kingston and Shawnese moun- tains, that form the western border of the basin of Wyo. ming. Veins of coal in the vale of the latter,* about 125 * The valley of Wyoming is rendered memorable in history from the bloody massacre of the white settlers by he Indians commanded by Col. Butler during the revo- tution, and immortalized in song by the beautiful poem of F2 72 ROUTE TO THE SCHUYLKILL COAL MINES. miles northwest of Philadelphia, are not only very numer ous, occurring on almost every farm, but many are of un- common thickness.* Extensive beds of coal are also found adjoining the head waters of Lycoming creek, which lie in horizontal veins, elevated considerably above the ordinary level of the adjacent country, and are, of course, mined with much less difficulty than in many other districts. These mines are advantageously located for supplying the city of New York and the southwestern part of the state, and will doubtless prove of great value to a company which has been chartered to explore them. ROUTE TO THE SCHUYLKILL COAL MINES. 96 miles. The Germantown, Norristown and Reading rail roads, extend from Philadelphia to Reading, 59 miles; from whence to Pottsville, by stage or canal, is about 37 miles. The latter portion of the route, indeed, will soon be oc- cupied by the Reading rail road, which is to connect, at various points, with the Mount Carbon, the Dansville and Pottsville, the Mill Creek and Schuylkill Valley, the Mine Campbell. The village of Wilkesbarre, on the Susque- hannah river, has been built near the place of this mas- sacrc. Solomon's creek, a tributary strean, and which unites with the Susquehannah in this valley, contains two very romantic falls, a very short distance from the village. * For the preceding sketch of the coal region, the edi. tor is mostly indebted to the Journal of Science and Arts, an invaluable work, published at New Haven, Conn., by Professor Silliman. GERMANTOWN-HAMBURGH. Hill and Schuylkill Haven, and the Little Schuylkill rail roads—thus uniting with all the rail ways in the Schuyl. kill coal region. · By means of a branch, it also connects with the Columbia rail road, within five or six miles of its termination. GERMANTOWN, 7 miles from Philadelphia on this route, is distinguished as the spot of a sanguinary contest dur- ing the revolution. Norristown, 10 miles farther, is handsomely located on the north bank of the Schuylkill. It is the capital of Montgomery county, and contains a number of elegant dwellings. It was formerly the residence of the cele- brated Doct. Rittenhouse. Pottstown, or PortSGROVE, 19 miles above Norris. town, is a pleasant village on the east bank of the river. READING, 23 miles farther, located on the east side of the river, is the capital of Berk’s county. It is a flour. ishing town, regularly laid out, and is inhabited princi- pally by Germans. Its population is about 7000. Near this place the Union Canal, noticed at page 59, com. mences. HAMBURGH is situated on the east side of the river, 23 miles above Reading, near the Blue Ridge. It is a pleas. ant and thriving village, near which is what is called the Mountain Dam, 27 feet high. The passage of the Schuyl- kill and canal through the Blue Ridge is interesting and romantic. The mountains bordering the ravine are lofty and precipitous, presenting ledges of old and red sand stone, with coarse and fine silicious gray wacke. The turnpike winds on the mountain side at a great elevation 74 MOUNT CARBON. above the stream, giving to the traveller a sublime and varied scenery. The navigation through the pass, or what is called the Schuylkill Water Gap, is effected by stone dams of magnitude and permanent construction ; and groops of locks, water falls and broad sheets of water are frequent. After passing the Water Gap, the next object of at. traction is the Tunnel, which has been bored through a hill 375 yards for the canal. The village of Orwisburgh is 3 miles farther; from which to Mount Carbon or POTTSVILLE is 8 miles. This place, centrally located in the coal region, has attained an as- tonishing growth within a few years. In 1824 it was a wilderness; in 1836, it contained about 600 dwellings and 7000 inhabitants; several churches, a bank, 3 print- ing offices, and a large number of stores, shops and pub- lic houses, some of which are very elegant. The town is laid out in regular squares, and the main street, about a mile in length, presents on each side a compact row of large and substantial buildings. The principal streets are M'Adamized in the centre, with brick side walks, giv. ing a neat and durable appearance to the promenades. The coal in this region has been described in the pre- ceding pages of this work. Besides the numerous facili- ties afforded for its transportation by water, several rail roads have been constructed in the vicinity of Mount Carbon. Among these, are the Mount Carbon rail road, from Mount Carbon to Norwegian Valley, 7 miles ; the Schuylkill Valley rail road, from Port Carbon to Tusca. rora, 10 miles, and branches 15 miles more; the Schuyl. kill rail road, 13 miles ; the Mill Creek rail road, from RAIL ROADS. 75 Port Carbon to the coal mines near Mill Creek, 7 miles. including branches; the Mine Hill and Schuylkill Haven rail road, from Schuylkill Haven to the coal mines at Mine Hill, including branches, 20 miles; the Pine Grove rail road, 4 miles; the Little Schuylkill rail road, from Port Clinton to Tamaqua, 23 miles; and the Lackawaxen rail road, from Honesdale to Carbondale, 17 miles. Of the numerous villages which have sprung up in the vicinity of these mines is Port Carbon, a short distance from Pottsville, containing from 250 to 300 buildings. Pursuing up the route of the Valley rail road, the trav- eller next comes to Tuscarora, Middleport, Patterson, New Philadelphia, and Tuscarora again. The three for. mer places are at the intersection of the large lateral road which leads up the creek tributary to the river. Up the Mill Creek rail road, about 2 miles, is St. Clairs_ ville, and at its head New Castle, where the road from Port Carbon intersects the Centre Turnpike. Both these places have extensive water powers, and are admirably located for mills, &c. At the junction of the West Branch of the Schuylkill with the main river, Schuylkill Haven is a beautifully sit- uated place, which will be a mart for all the immense coal region of the West and west West Branches; this loca- tion is destined to be the focus of an extensive business. Minersville is another site on the same branch, nearly west of Pottsville. This, from its situation among ex- tensive colleries, has already become a populous place, as the residence of those engaged in the coal business. Fur. ther up on the Broad Mountain, is Carbondale, which also promises to be a place of some importance. 26 MAUCH CHUNK. ROUTE TO THE LEHIGH COAL MINES. From Pottsville, a stage can be taken to Mauch Chunk, at the Lehigh coal mines, a distance of 32 miles in a northeasterly direction. This route is recommended to travellers from the south, designing a general visit to the coal regions. From the north, the most direct route is, to pursue the line of the Morris canal from Newark, New Jersey, to Easton, or the route from New-York to Schooley's Mountain, and from thence to Easton, pro- cecding up the Lehigh to Mauch Chunk. A very com. mon route from Philadelphia to the Lehigh is by steam. boat to Bristol, 20 miles up the Delaware, and from thence by stage through Newton and New Hope to Easton, 50 miles farther. This route is mostly on the bank of the Delaware, and passes through a pleasant section of the country, affording a rich and diversified scenery. MAUCH CHUNK. The village of Mauch Chunk is situated on the west- ern bank of the Lehigh, in a deep romantic ravine, be- tween rocky mountains that rise in some parts precipi. tously to 800 or 1000 feet above the stream. Space was procured for dwellings by breaking down the adjacent rocks, and by filling a part of the ravine of the Mauch Chunk creek. A portion of this stream has been trans- ferred to an elevated rail way, and is used to propel a grist mill. The village contains about 250 dwellings, belong- ing principally to the Lehigh Company, who have be- tween 800 and 1000 men in their employ. Mauch Chunk LEHIGH R.VER. seems by nature designed for a place of business, but as there is not sufficient room, owing to the approach of the mountains to the Lehigh, for a town of much size, the business of the place will most likely be confined princi- pally to the shipment of coal. : The Mauch CHUNK RAIL Road leads from near the coal mines on the mountain down an inclined plane to the Lehigh river. It is 3 miles long, and has been in op. eration 9 or 10 years. The road generally passes along a narrow shelf, with precipices on its side not unfrequently of from 300 to 600 feet. At the end of the rail road, the cars are let down to the river on an inclined plane of 700* feet, equal to a perpendicular descent of 200. The same company have also constructed a rail road 54 miles in cxtent from Mauch Chunk up the Lehigh to a coal mine. The LEHIGH CANAL was noticed at page 61. The LB· HIGH River is a copious rapid stream, and rises by various mountain branches 40 miles northwest of Mauch Chunk, which unite below Stoddartsville, 25 miles above the for. mer place. The fall of the river between these two places is 845 feet. Eleven miles below Mauch Chunk, it passes through the Kittatinny mountains, and in the intermedi. ate space falls 245 feet. From the Lehigh Water Gap, or passage through the Kittatinny, to its junction with the Delaware at Easton, 35 miles, it falls 205 feet; making the entire fall from Stoddartsville 1210 feet. To overcome the descent from Mauch Chunk to Easton, 21 dams and 52 locks have been found necessary. They are located at the head of the rapids, enabling the nayi. gator to command an artificial freshet, when the stream 78 LEHIGH WATER GAP. from its dispersion would not otherwise admit of the pas. sage of boats. Water from the dam is copiously admitted into a rail way that extends to the foot of the rapid. The gates are attached by hinges to the bottom of the lock, and rise by the force of water admitted from a floom, constructed parallel with the lock, and remain suspended, forming a section of the dam. If the gate of the floom is closed, the water between the gates passes off, and they fall by their own weight and the pressure of the water from the dam. The LANDING, or Lausanne, above Mauch Chunk, from its location at the head of the navigation, and at the com- mencement of the road leading to the Susquehannah, is a place of deposit for merchandize and produce destined to and from the upper country. Eight miles below Mauch Chunk is the pleasant village of LEIGHTON. The village commands a prospect of the river and canal; the valley in which the town of Weiss Port is located; the Blue Mountain in the distance, and a nearer view of the Mahoning mountain and the Lehigh hills. The Mahoning creek flows at the foot of the Ma- honing mountain, and empties into the Lehigh within half a mile of the village, where has been discovered a mineral spring, the waters of which have proved highly beneficial in many cases of disease and debility. The LEHIGH WATER GAP is 3 miles farther. The river is here confined within very narrow limits, being bounded on either side with the bold and precipitous Kittatinny mountains. The scenery is in a high degree wild, pic. turesque, and frequently sublime. Below the mountains, the features of nature are less magnificent, but still fol- BETHLEHEM-EASTON. 79 low in a romantic succession of strongly contrasted and elegant landscapes. BETHLEHEM is 11 miles from the Water Gap. It is a settlement of the Moravians, or United Brethren. The situation is healthful and pleasant, and it is a place much resorted to in the summer months. The church belong. ing to the society is one of the largest in the state, though exhibiting in its structure much plainness. From its steeple a very beautiful, picturesque and extended view can be obtained. In one direction the scene stretches for upwards of 20 miles along the course of the Lehigh and the Water Gap, the wandering explorations of the eye terminating at the Blue Mountain range. The house where Gen. Lafayette lay during his recov. ery from the wound he received at the battle of Brandy. wine, is pointed out here. His nurse on that occasion, who had continued to reside in the place, received a visit from him when he was last in this country. Easton is 12 miles from Bethlehem, and is the capital of Northampton county, Penn. It is located on the Del- aware river, immediately above the entrance of the Le- high, in a valley between the Musonetcunck mountains. Several rude and isolated hills stand in the valley, com. manding extensive views and giving to the place a pic- turesque appearance. The town is tastefully laid out, with an open square in the centre, and contains several handsome dwellings. Its public buildings are a college, court house, jail, 4 churches, a bank and an academy. A bridge extending across the Delaware at this place cost $60,000. There is also a chain bridge across the Lehigh. 80 MORRIS CANAL. The location of Easton is highly favorable for trade. Besides the great advantages here possessed for manu. facturing purposes, and the contiguity of the place to the Delaware and Lehigh river, it is the point at which three important canals, the Delaware, the Lehigh and the Mor- ris, concentrate. The Morris Canal extends from Easton to Newark, New Jersey, a distance of 86 miles, and from thence to Powles' Hook, opposite New-York, 8 miles further, lock. age 1600 feet, which is surmounted by inclined planes. From Newark to Paterson, the country through which the canal passes is beautiful. At the latter place a view of the extensive manufactories is had, located on the north. On the south, the canal for some distance is bounded by mountainous rugged cliffs, the rocky excava- tions through which wero attended with great labor and expense. Four miles above Paterson is what is called the Grand Aqueduct across the Passaic river at the Little Falls. Half a mile further is an aqueduct across the Pompton river, a work of considerable magnitude. From Easton to the Delaware Wind Gap, an important passage through the Blue Mountains, is 12 miles, in a northwardly direction. From Easton to the Delaware Water Gap, the distance is 23 miles. The route proceeds up the river to Rich- mond, 14 miles; from thence to Williamsburgh, 4 miles ; and from the latter place to the Water Gap, 5 miles. The current of the stream is here contracted at the base of two lofty mountains in opposite directions, between which the passage is extremely narrow. It is supposed that here was formerly a barrier over which the river PHILADELPHIA TO NEW-YORK. 81 flowed in the form of a cataract, which was subsequently worn away, leaving a smooth unruffled current. The scene is wild and highly interesting. From Easton to Schooley's Mountain and thence to New-York, the whole distance is 71 miles as follows: Miles. Miles. From Easton to Phil. Morristown,.......... 6 ipsburgh,........... 1 Passaic river, ......... 7 Top of Schooley's Newark,.......... . 11 Mountain,.......... 24 New-York,........... 10 Mendham,.... m,............ 12 SCHOOLEY'S MOUNTAIN, in New Jersey, is a place of fashionable resort from New York, in the summer months, owing to its cool, airy and healthful situation, and to the extensive prospect afforded from its top; on which there is an excellent public house. Within a mile of its summit there are mineral springs, which are usually resorted to by visitants at the mountain house. NEWARK, N. J., which is located on this route, is no- ticed in a subsequent page. Having thus far diverged from the usual route to the north, for the purpose of describing the coal region, and the most interesting natural and artificial objects connect- ed therewith, we return to Philadelphia, to resume the regular excursion. FROM PHILADELPHIA TO NEW-YORK. There being two prominent routes, we give a sketch, of each for the convenience and choice of travellers. Route by the Camden and Amboy Rail Road- 85 miles. The intermediate distances are as follow : 82 PHILADELPHIA TO NEW-YORK. Miles. Miles. By steamboat. By rail road. From Philadelphia to | Hightstown,......... 14 Burlington, N. J.,,. 18 | Amboy,............. 20 Bristol, Penn., ....... 1 By steamboat. Bordentown, N. J.,... 9 New-York,....... BURLINGTON, the capital of the county of the same name, is 12 miles below Trenton and 18 above Philadel- phia. It is delightfully situated, and contains suine handsome public and private houses. BRISTOL is one mile farther, on the opposite side of the Delaware, in Bucks county, Pennsylvania. This place contains several fine residences, and is an attractive and interesting country village. Some of its flower gardens, which are unusually elegant, and located on the margin of the river, add much to the beauty of its appearance. BORDENTOWN, 9 miles farther, and 6 below Trenton, is noted as the residence of the Count de Surveillers, the ex-king of Spain. His villa commands a fine view of the river. The soil around it is unproductive; but by the aid of culture and art, his residence now exhibits an appear. ance of taste and munificence worthy the princely fortune and dignity of its proprietor. At Bordentown the CAMDEN AND AMBOY Rail Road is taken, which extends to South Amboy ; from whence a steamboat is again taken, which lands passengers at New-York. Camden, the south-western point at which the road terminates, is a small village on the Delaware, opposite Philadelphia, 27 miles below Bordentown, where the river is about one mile in breadth. In the winter, passengers are generally received and landed at that PHILADELPHIA TO NEW-YORK. 83 point; but in summer, a steamboat passage between Phi- ladelphia and Bordentown is generally preferred. South Amboy is seated at the head of the Raritan Bay, 61 miles from Camden, as measured by the course of the rail road; and is about 23 miles from the city of New York, (by water,) making the whole distance from Camden to New. York 84 miles. South Amboy, where the road terminates at the east- ern end, is one of the finest harbors in the United States accessible at all seasons for the largest vessels from the sea and from New-York; so that the communication with Philadelphia and foreign countries by this route is seldom interrupted. From South Amboy a steam boat is taken for New- York. In proceeding up the bay, Staten, Bedlow and Governor's Islands are successively passed—the former containing several beautiful country seats, and the lat. ter being used exclusively as a military post. FROM PHILADELPHIA TO NEW-YORK, By way of Trenton, New-Brunswick and Newark 87 miles. The following are the intermediate distances : Miles. Miles. By rail road. Elizabethtown,...... Bristol, ............. 17 | Newark, ............. Morrisville,.......... 10 Jersey City,.......... Trenton,............ By steamboat. New-Brunswick,..... 26 New-York, ........... 1 Rahway, ........... 131 The PHILADELPHIA AND TRENTON RAIL Road is taken ' at the depot in the city. This road, which is remarkably G2 84 TRENTON. level, extends along the verdant banks of the Delaware, and passes through the village of Bristol to Trenton ; from which point there is a branch rail road to Borden- town, uniting with the Camden and Amboy rail road already noticed, and also a continuous line of railway through New Brunswick, Rahway, Elizabethtown, and Newark to Jersey City opposite New-York. Bristol, 17 miles from Philadelphia, is the first village of importance on this route, and has already been noticed at p. 82. Trenton, 11 miles farther, is the capital of New Jersey, and contains about 7000 inhabitants, a state house, two banks, and six houses of public worship. At this place the steamboat navigation on the Delaware terminates. The river here forms a considerable rapid or fall, near which is the bridge used by the rail road company, about a quarter of a mile long, neatly roofed, and the sides enclosed to secure it from the weather. It was in this section of New.Jersey, and at the gloomiest period of the contest, that some of the most important scenes of the revolution transpired. It was for a length of time in the possession of the English, and was the theatre of much carnage and bloodshed. The capture of a detachment of English and German troops in December, 1776, at Trenton, was the first signal vic. tory that crowned our arms in the revolutionary contest. The retreat of Washington with his troops from Tren- ton, considering the circumstances which surrounded him, and the secrecy with which it was accomplished, NEWARK. is 85 may be justly considered as one of the most successful movements of that eventful period. New-BRUNSWICK, 26 miles from Trenton, is an incor. porated city. It is handsomely located on the south west side of the Raritan river, and contains a court house, jail, a college, 7 churches, and between 5 and 6000 in. habitants. The Raritan and Delaware canal commences at this place, and extends through Trenton to Bordentown, uniting the Raritan with the Delaware river. Length 43 miles. RAHWAY is a small village, 13 miles from New-Bruns. wick. ELIZABETHTOWN, 5 miles farther, is pleasantly situated on a creek emptying into Staten Island Sound. A steamboat plies between the Point and New-York. NEWARK, 6 miles farther, is one of the most elegant cities in the union. It is situated near the west bank of the Passaic river, 3 miles from its mouth, and is laid out in regular streets, the principal being 200 feet wide. The public square, near the centre, is very handsome, and is surrounded by a number of elegant private dwellings. The public buildings in the place are a court house, jail, four banks, an academy, and 22 churches. The popula- tion in 1830 was 10,705, and cannot, at the present time, (1840,) be less than 18 or 20,000. The Morris and Essex rail road, commencing at this place, extends in a westerly direction through the towns of Orange, Springfield and Chatham to Morristown, a distance of 22 miles. 86 NEW-YORK. Between five and six miles from Newark, the rail road unites with one leading to Patterson, noticed in a subse- quent page. The two, passing through Bergen Hill, a deep and rocky excavation, are used in common for about two and a half miles to the terminating point at Jersey City; from whence a steamboat crosses the bay, about one mile, to NEW-YORK. This city is situated on the point of Manhattan Island, at the confluence of the Hudson and East rivers, in lati. tude 40. It was founded by the Dutch in 1612, under the name of New-Amsterdam, and was incorporated by the British in 1696. The island on which it stands is 15 miles long, and from 1 to 3 miles broad. The city is situated on the south part of the island, at the junction of the East and Hudson rivers, and extends from the Battery along each, in a northerly direction, about 3 miles. The early settlements were commenced at and near the Battery, from which streets were extended with. out reference to order or regularity; and this accounts for the seeming want of taste in laying out the streets towards the docks and harbor. The BATTERY is situated at the southwest point of the city, opposite to Governor's Island. It is handsomely laid out into gravel walks, and tastefully decorated with shrubbery and trees. It is much frequented by the citi. zens in the warm season, as well for the purpose of par. taking of the refreshing sea breeze, as for enjoying the prospect, which, from this place, includes the harbor with its various shipping, Governor's Island, Bedlow's Island, NEW-YORK. the Park, are a part of the Albany boats, and also the Hoboken ferry. Above St. Paul's church is the Park and City Hall, situated in the centre of the city, the former containing about 11 acres, which are ornamented with much taste, and enclosed by a substantial iron railing. It furnishes a cool and fashionable resort for men of business and pleasure, after the fatigue and heat of a summer's day. On the right is the Park Theatre, and on the left Park Place, on the west side of which is Columbia College. The next street above Park Place is Murray, which leads to the Iloboken ferry, and also to the Providence steamboats. Of the public buildings (besides nearly 30 banks, most. ly located in Wall street,) the most prominent and im- portant is the City Hall, the front of which is built of white marble. It is 216 feet long, 105 feet broad, and, including the attic story, 65 feet high. The rooms for holding the different courts of law are fitted up in a rich and expensive style. The room for holding the mayor's court, contains por. traits of Washington, of the different governors of the state, and of many of the most celebrated commanders of the army and navy of the United States. The founda. tion stone of this building was laid in 1803, and the whole finished in 1812, at an expense of $500,000. It is one of the most elegant edifices in America, and reflects great credit on the inhabitants for their munificence and taste. The New City Hall, in the rear of the City Hall, is an extensive brick building, formerly the Alms House, which, with the buildings lately composing the Rotunda NEW-YORK. 89 and Debtors' Prison, are now occupied for the Post Office and other public offices. The Hall Of Justice, on Franklin and Leonard streets, is a massive and superb structure of granite, built in the Egyptian style. The MERCHANTS' EXCHANGE, in Wall-street, which was burnt during the great fire on the night of the 16th Dc. cember, 1835, was an elegant structure, 114 feet long by 150 feet deep, and was erected at a cost of $230,000. On its ruins, however, a much more splendid and exten. sive edifice is constructing, and will soon be finished. In the same street, on the corner of Nassau, and ex. tending through to Pine-street, a new custom house is in a great state of forwardness, which, when finished, will be one of the most substantial and elegant buildings in the city. It is 177 feet long and 89 feet wide, and is built after the model of the Parthenon at Athens. The fronts present splendid colonnades, with massive columns of the Doric order. The centre of the building is sur- mounted by a dome about 60 feet in diameter. The en- tire structure is incombustible. Trinity CHURCH, in Broadway, which, from its antique appearance, formerly attracted the attention of strangers, has been recently demolished, for the purpose of erecting on its site a new and costly edifice. The cemetery in the adjoining grounds is ancient, and is enclosed by a substantial and costly iron railing. No interments have taken place in this cemetery for some years, owing to a law prohibiting sepulture within the populous parts of the city; but it has been ascertained by authentic records kept, that more than one hundred and NEW YORK sixty thousand bodies have been here deposited, exclusive of the seven years of the revolutionary war, when no re. cords were kept. Among the illustrious dead who repose in this hallowed spot, are the remains of Gen. Hamilton and Capt. Lawrence. The places of their interment are designated by appropriate monuments. St. Paul's CHAPEL is a superb structure, further up Broadway, near the Park. It contains a portico of the Ionic order, consisting of four pillars supporting a pedi- ment, with a niche in the centre containing a statue of St. Paul. Under the portico is a handsome monument erected by order of Congress to the memory of Gen. Montgomery, who fell at the storming of Quebec, in 1775, and whose remains were brought to New-York and interred beneath the monument in 1819. The spire of the church is 234 feet high; and the whole building is es. teemed one of the best specimens of architecture in the city. In the church yard adjoining is an elegant monu. ment erected to the memory of Thomas Addis Emmet, an eminent counsellor at law, and brother of the unfortu. nate Irish orator, Robert Emmet. St. John's CHAPEL, in Varick street, opposite Hudson Square, is a splendid edifice, and the most expensive church in the city, having cost more than $200,000. Its spire is 240 feet in height. St. PATRICK'S CATHEDRAL, a Roman Catholic church, in Mott street, is one of the largest religious edifices in New-York. It is built of stone, 120 feet long, 80 feet wide, and is a conspicuous object in approaching the city from the east. NEW-YORK. There are about 150 other churches in the city, niany of which were erected at a very considerable expense, and are ornaments to those sections of the city in which they stand. COLUMBIA COLLEGE, above the City Hall, was charter. ed in 1750, under the name of King's College. The edi. fice and adjoining grounds are extensive, and are advan- tageously and handsomely located. The New-YORK UNIVERSITY is situated between Wash. ington-place and Waverly-place, and fronts Washington square towards the west. The building is of marble, 180 feet long and 100 feet deep, exhibiting a specimen of the English collegiate style of architecture, and forms a no- ble ornament to the square and to the part of the city in which it stands. The AMERICAN ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS, is situated in Barclay street, near Broadway. It exhibits annually in May a fine collection of paintings, sculpture, &c. A part of these were received from Napoleon, whilst First Consul of France. The New-YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY in Chambers street, corner of Broadway, has a library of 10,000 vol- umes, and a valuable collection of coins and minerals. The New-YORK SOCIETY LIBRARY, in Nassau street, was commenced in 1740, and at the commencement of the revolution contained 3000 volumes, which were de- stroyed or taken away by the British troops. It was re. established in 1780, and now consists of about 30,000 vol umes, many of which are rare and valuable. The New-YORK ATHENÆUM, corner of Broadway and Chambers street, for the promotion of science and litera- 92 NEW-YORK. ture, contains a well selected library and periodical pub. lications. The LYCEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 563 Broadway, possesses a valuable library, and a museum of natural history. The STUYVESANT INSTITUTE, for the diffusion of know- ledge by means of popular lectures, &c. is in a substan. tial granite building in Broadway, opposite Bond street. The MERCANTILE LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, in Clinton Hall, has a library of about 10,000 volumes. The COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS AND SURGEONS, in a com. modious building in Crosby street, is in a flourishing con. dition. The number of students attending the lectures generally exceeds one hundred. The Park THEATRE is a spacious edifice, adjoining the Park. It was originally built in 1798, at an expense of $179,000, was destroyed by fire in 1820, and rebuilt the following year. It is 80 feet long, 165 deep, and 55 high. The Bowery Theatre (in the Bowery) is one of the finest specimens of Doric architecture in the city. It is 75 feet long, 175 feet deep, and 58 feet high. The AMERICAN Museum is opposite St. Paul's church in Broadway, and contains an immense collection of nat. ural and artificial curiosities. PEALE'S MUSEUM AND GALLERY OF THE FINE ARTs is opposite the Park, and contains specimens of natural his- tory, paintings, a superior cosmorama and lecture room. NIBLO'S GARDEN, corner of Broadway and Prince street, is one of the most fashionable places of resort in the city. It has been laid out with great taste, and is NEW-YORK. 93 decorated with shrubbery, flowers, &c. In the saloon, which is airy and elegant, theatricial and musical enter- tainments are frequently given. Of the public squares and parks, besides those already noticed, are the BOWLING GREEN, located at the southern termination of Broadway; HUDSON SQUARE, or St. John's Park, in the northwest part of the city, belonging to Trin- ity Church ; WASHINGTON SQUARE, a mile and a half north of the City Hall; UNION Place, at the junction of Broadway and the Bowery; and GRAMENCY Park, two miles north of the City Hall. HOTELS. Astor House, Broadway, near St. Paul's church. This building erected by John Jacob Astor, is composed almost entirely of eastern granite, and presents a most noble and imposing appearance. It contain 390 rooms, and can accommodate from 3 to 400 guests. The City Hotel, a few doors north of Trinity church, Broadway, is an old and highly respectable establishment, containing more than 100 parlors and lodging rooms, be. sides an assembly room, principally used for concerts. The AMERICAN HOTEL is delightfully situated, fronting the Park in Broadway, and is among the most favored establishments in the city. The Mansion House, (Bunker's,) 39 Broadway, is a house of fashionable resort, with extensive and neat ac- commodations. The WAVERLY HOUSE, corner of Broadway and Ex. change Place, is a neat and commodious establishment. It receives, as it deserves, an extensive patronage. 94 NEW-YORK. The Carlton House, corner of Broadway and Leonard streets, is also a beautiful establishment, and kept in a superior style. The ATLANTIC HOTEL, 5 Broadway, near the Battery, is a charming location for such as are fond of partial retirement from the bustle incident to a crowded street, The U.S. HOTEL, forming an allinement on three streets, the one part on Water, another on Pearl, and its eastern limit facing on Fulton street, and occupying the entire block, is built of white marble, and is six stories high, ex- clusive of the basement. It is surmounted by a lofty quadrangular tower, around which there is an extensive and pleasant promenade. Above this there is a spacious rotunda, from the exalted summit of which a view is ob- tained of nearly the whole city, the East river, Brooklyn, part of Long Island, the entire upper bay and harbor, Staten Island, a very considerable extent of the Hudson river and the Jersey shore. Besides the above, the following are among the princi- pal public houses in the city : ADELPHI HOTEL, corner of Beaver street and Broad- way; NATIONAL HOTEL, 112 Broadway ; FRANKLIN House, corner of Dey street and Broadway; WASHING- TON HOTEL, corner of Reed street and Broadway; CLIN- TON HOTEL, Beekman street; EXCHANGE HOTEL, Broad street; EASTERN PEARL STREET HOUSE, corner of Pearl and Ferry streets; CONGRESS HALL, Broadway; Pacific HOTEL, 162 Greenwich street ; GLOBE HOTEL, Broad- way; ATHENEUM HOTEL, corner of Broadway and Leon- ard streets. NEW-YORK. 95 There are also several genteel private boarding houses, especially in Broadway, between the Battery and Trinity Church. The prices at these houses vary from $1 to $2,50 per day, and from $8 to $12 per week. In population, this city is the first in the union. In 1835, it contained 269,873 inhabitants ; which is probably now (1840) augmented to 300,000. Packets.—The Liverpool packets sail from New York and Liverpool on the 1st, 8th, 16th and 24th of each month. The London packets sail from New York on the 1st, 10th, and 20th, and from London on the 7th, 17th, and 27th of each month. The Havre packets sail from New York on the 8th, 16th and 24th, and from Havre on the 1st, 8th and 16th of each month. The STEAM PACKETS leave New York and England semi-monthly. STEAMBOATS.-For Albany. The day line leaves from the foot of Barclay-street, at 7 A. M.; the night line from the foot of Courtlandt street, at 5 P. M. For Philadelphia. The boats for the route via Cam. den and Amboy rail road, leave from Pier No. 1, North river, a little above the Battery; those for the route via Newark, New-Brunswick, &c. from the foot of Court. landt street. For Boston, via Providence, outer passage. The boats leave Pier No. 1, North river, daily (Sundays ex. cepted) at 5 P. M. For the inland route, via Stonington A2 96 EXCURSIONS. rail road, they leave Pier No. 4, North river, 4th wharf above the Battery, at 6 P. M. For New Haven (Conn.) Boats leave daily (Sundays excepted) from the foot of Pike street, at 7 A. M. For Hartford (Conn.) A boat leaves daily at 5 P.M. from the foot of Fulton street, (East river side.) For Charleston, S. C. A boat leaves every Saturday at 4 P. M. Public COACHES.–Strangers visiting New-York are liable to suffer from exorbitant exactions for coach hire. To guard against this, the corporation have licenced an adequate number of hackmen, who may be found at sev- eral convenient stands in the city, each coach being num- bered. The following are the prices allowed them by law: For conveying a person any distance, not exceed- ing a mile 37 1-2 cts.; for more than a mile and less than two, 50 cts.; for every additional mile and returning, 50 cts.; for the use of a coach per day, $5. An excursion to the upper parts of the city, and to Greenwich, can be effected at almost any time during the day, in an omnibus, of which there are very great numbers constantly passing through Broadway and Wall street. The usual charge in these carriages, which have their regular routes, is 12 1-2 cents. EXCURSIONS. Among the numerous places of fashionable resort in the vicinity of New York, are Governor's, Bedlow's and Staten Islands, within the harbor ; Orange Springs, near Newark, Paterson, the Passaic Falls, Hoboken and Wee- hawk, Schooley's Mountain, and Long Branch, in New PASSAIC FALLS. 97 Jersey, on the west; Manhattan Island, on the north; and the tour of Long Island on the east. Governor's and Bedlow's Islands are usually approach. ed only in row boats, and are less frequented on that ac. count. Staten Island, is reached in a distance of about 6 miles from the city. It contains several beautiful villages and country seats, and is a place of great resort in the warm season. In an excursion to Paterson and to the Passaic Falls, the Paterson rail road, which commences at Jersey City, is taken. The whole length of the road is about 15 miles, in a northwesterly direction from New York, and affords an easy conveyance to the Passaic Falls and the thriving manufacturing village in their vicinity. The perpendicu- lar pitch is 70 feet into a narrow and rocky chasm, though most of the water has been diverted into a canal in another direction, for hydraulic purposes ; still the scenery is wild and imposing, and the falls are among the greatest natural curiosities of this country. The Morris canal, noticed at p. 80, passes near them. Hoboken and Weehawk are on the west side of the Hudson river, opposite the northern parts of New York, near which is the Hoboken duelling ground, which can. not be easily approached, except in a row boat. Schooley's Mountain, 50 miles west of New York, was noticed at p. 81. Long Branch, is 30 miles south of New York, on the eastern shore of New Jersey, and on the immediate bank of the Atlantic Ocean, an extensive view of which is here obtained. A bathing establishment is erected, and the 08 HURL GATE. bank, which is elevated to a height of 30 or 40 feet fo several miles, affords a beautiful promenade. Sandy Hook and Neversink can be visited on this route, the heights of the latter affording an extensive view of the marine coast. The HARLAEM RAIL ROAD commences near the City Hall, and extends to Harlaem, 8 miles distant. The tunnel at Yorkville, about 6 miles from the city, through a solid rock of some extent, is an object of curiosity, and will of itself amply compensate a traveller for a trip over the road. In approaching Harlaem, the Asylum for the Insane, on very elevated ground, and the heights of Fort Washington, are readily distinguished. ** By extending an excursion still further north, an ex. amination of the Croton Aqueduct, designed to supply the city with pure water, may be had at several interest. ing points. The whole length of this aqueduct, when finished from New York to the Croton river, will be 45 miles. It is now in a state of great forwardness, and will probably be completed in 1842. Its cost will not be less than 10 or $12,000,000. In returning from Harlaem, by taking a private car- riage and passing down the East river side, Hurl Gate, the Alms House and House of Refuge may be visited. Hurl Gate is a narrow and apparently a dangerous strait in the river, 8 miles from the city, between the isl. ands of Manhattan and Parsell on the N. W., and Long Island on the S. E., in which, at low water, there are nu. merous whirlpools or currents, occasioned by huge masses of rock projecting in various places, giving to the river only a very contracted passage. At high water, these BROOKLYN. masses are more or less concealed, and the current is in a degree unruffled. Losses of vessels were formerly ex- perienced here ; but none have been known in some years. BROOKLYN, (on Long Island,) directly opposite New. York, from which it is separated by the East river, is reached by steamboats, which are constantly plying at the ferry between Fulton street in New York and Ful. ton street in Brooklyn; at the ferry from Catharine street in New-York to Main street in Brooklyn; at the Jack. son street or Navy Yard ferry; and at the south ferry between Whitehall in New York and Atlantic street in Brooklyn. The growth of Brooklyn (which was charter- ed as a city in 1834) has been almost unexampled. In 1820, it had a population of only 7000; in 1835 it had increased to 25,000; and it is now (1840) prob. ably not less than 35,000. Besides several public buildings, including a City Hall, the city contains 20 churches, 5 banks, 2 insurance companies, and several literary institutions ; among which, the Collegiate Insti- tute for Young Ladies stands pre-eminent. Its contiguity to the metropolis, and the facilities afforded for communi- cating between the two places, have induced many mer- chants and men of business to select Brooklyn as a resi- dence in preference to the upper part of New York. The former also contains several elegant country seats and public gardens. Those on the bank contiguous to the East river, from their elevated situation, overlooking the bay of New York, and commanding a view of a great part of that city, are peculiarly attractive and romantic. Northeasterly, on a tract of land called the Wallabout, 100 ROCKAWAY. is a U. S. Navy Yard, where are erected a house for the commandant, several spacious warehouses, and an im- mense edifice, under which the largest ships of war are built. Brooklyn is intimately connected with important events of the revolution, and in its vicinity are pointed out some remaining vestiges of fortifications and military works erected during that eventful period. The road to Flat- bush (4 miles east) crosses the ground on which the bat. tle of the 27th July, 1776, was fought, which resulted in a severe loss to the Americans and the capture of Gene- rals Sullivan and Sterling. The marshes in which so many lives were lost in retreating from the British army are south of this. The BROOKLYN, JAMAICA AND LONG ISLAND RAIL ROAD commences at Atlantic street or South Ferry, and passing through Jamaica, a pleasant village, 12 miles from Brook. lyn, reaches Hicksville, 15 miles farther. From thence it is designed, ultimately, to extend it to Greensport, on the east end of Long Island, about 70 miles from Hicksville. From Jamaica to ROCKAWAY, bordering on the Atlan. tic, is 9 miles. Since the erection of the Marine Pavilion, one of the most elegant public establishments in the union, this has become a place of much resort in the summer months. A fine view of the ocean is here obtained, which, from its unceasing roar and turbulence, is rendered unusually sublime. NEW-YORK TO ALBANY. 101 FROM NEW-YORK TO ALBANY, The distance, by water, is 144 miles, as follows: Distance from place to place. New-York. As New York, .... Wechawken, ...... Palisadoes, southern termination,... Fort Washington,.............. Tappan Bay, southern extremity,.. Sing Sing,...................... Haverstraw Bay,................. Stony Point,................... Verplanck's Point,.............. Horse Race, (Highlands,)......... Anthony's Nose,................ West Point,.... Pollopel Island, ................... Newburgh,...................... Milton,........ Poughkeepsie,...................: Hyde Park,.. Rhinebeck,.......... Redhook, lower landing, ......... Redhook, upper do............... Catskill,..... Hudson, ................ Coxsackie,............ Kinderhook,.... New-Baltimorc, ............... Schodack, .. Albany, ........................... 2 8 136 132 12 24 120 112 110 5 39 105 1 40 104 2 42 102 3 45 99 5 50 94 6 56 88 4 60 11 71 ឧដធំដឌីជនននននីនីទីឌីធីវីធីទីឌីនី Albany. 75 80 63 o EwBTA FA - A .... ... .. .... - ........ . - - - 27 19 3 100 11 111 5 116 8 124 2 126 4 130 4 134 10 144 • • • 102 PALISADOES-FORT LEE. Boats leave New-York for Albany at 7 o'clock A. M. and at 5 P. M., and the trip is usually performed in about 12 hours—fare $3, exclusive of meals. A morning boat will prove the most interesting to those who have never performed the route by day-light; as it will afford an op- portunity of witnessing the rich scenery and numerous villages and country seats between the two cities. WEEHAWKEN, about 6 miles from the city, on the west side of the river, is pointed out to the traveller as the ground on which Gen. Hamilton fell in a duel with Col. Burr. The Lunatic Asylum is seen on elevated ground, on the east side of the river, about 7 miles from the city. The PALISADOES, which first make their appearance on the Hudson, about 8 miles from New York, on the west side of the river, are a range of rocks from 20 to 550 feet in height, and extend from thence to Tappan, a distance of about 20 miles. In some places they rise almost per- pendicularly from the shore, and form, for several miles in extent, a solid wall of rock, diversified only by an occa- sional fishing hut on the beach at their base, or wood slides down their sides, and sometimes by an interval of a few acres of arable land, affording an opening for a land- ing place, and a steep road leading to their top. On the opposite side of the river, the land is varied by hill and dale, cultivated fields and woods, with cottages and coun.. try seats. The land in this place, however, back from the river, rises in rocky hills, and becomes more precipi. tous as you advance into Westchester county. Twelve miles from New York, the boat passes the site of Fort LEE, on the brow of the Palisadoes, at the height TAPPAN BAY~TARRYTOWN. 103 of 300 feet above the river ; nearly opposite to which, on a high hill on the east side of the river, stood Fort WASHINGTON. In October, 1776, after the evacuation of New-York by the American troops, followed the battle of White Plains, by which name is known the high ground on the east, between the Hudson river and the Sound above Kingsbridge, whence Washington retreated to Peekskill. Fort Washington was then taken by the Hes-- sians and British, and the garrison, composed of 2600 militia and regular troops, surrendered prisoners of war. The surrender of Fort Lee followed soon after Washing- ton crossed the Hudson. PHILIPSBURGH, a small but neat village, is seen on the east side of the river, at a distance of 17 miles from New- York. Seven miles farther, the river expands to a width of from two to five miles, and forms what is called TAPPAN Bay. The little village of Tappan,* a place of much note during Andre and Arnold's conspiracy, is situ- ated on its western shore, about 4 miles north of the com. mencement of the Bay. The spot of Andre's grave is still pointed out near this village, though his remains were conveyed to England a few years since, by order of the British government. About 2 miles above Tappan village, on the eastern shore, is the village of TARRYTOWN, where Andre was captured by Paulding, Van Wart and Williams, the American militia-men. Paulding died some years ago, * This is the point at which the New York and Erie rail road commences, and which it is contemplated to ex. tend to Lake Erie, a distance of about 470 miles 104 HAVERSTRAW BAY~THE HIGHLANDS. and a monument was erected over his grave by the cor- poration of New-York. Van Wart died more recently, and a monument to his memory has been erected by the citizens of Westchester county. It stands by the road side, in a retired valley in the town of Greenbush, about three miles east of Tarrytown. Near the northern extremity of Tappan Bay, about 9 miles from its commencement, on the eastern shore, is the Sing Sing state prison. It comprises 800 dormitories or solitary cells, is 4 stories high, and occupies about 50 by 500 feet of ground. From each end of the main build- ing, which stands parallel with the river, are carried out wings, in a westerly direction, 300 feet in extent, form. ing a spacious inner yard, open only to the river. The wings, composed of marble, are constructed for work- shops, a chapel, kitchen, hospital, &c. The number of convicts in the prison is usually from 800 to 1000. Sleepy Hollow, the place where Washington Irving locates the scene of his tale bearing that name in the “ Sketch Book,” is a short distance north of Sing Sing. Haverstraw Bay commences 34 miles from New York, and terminates at Stony and Verplanck's Points; being about 6 miles in length, and from 2 to 4' in width. Hav. erstraw village is on the west side of this bay, 2 miles from its commencement. The HIGHLANDS, or Fishkill Mountains, which first ap- pear about 40 miles from New York, will attract notice, not only from their grandeur and sublimity, but also from their association with some of the most important events of the revolution. This chain of mountains is about 16 CALDWELL'S LANDING. 105 miles in width, and extends along both sides of the Hudl son, to the distance of 20 miles. The height of the prin: cipal has been estimated at 1565 feet. According to the theory of the late Doctor Mitchell, this thick and solid barrier seems in ancient days to have impeded the course of the water, and to have raised a lake high enough to cover all the country to Quaker Hill and the Laconick Mountains on the east, and to Shawangunk and the Cats- kill Mountains on the west ; extending to the Little Falls of the Mohawk, and to Hadley Falls on the Hud- son—but by some convulsion of nature, the mountain chain has been broken, and the rushing waters found their way to the now New-York bay. At the entrance of the Highlands, on the east side of the river, is the site of an old fort on Verplanck's Point, opposite to which stood the fort of Stony Point, which was taken from Gen. Wayne in 1778, and re-taken by him the same year. Between these points the frigate was stationed which received Gen. Arnold, after his treachery. CALDWELL'S LANDING, 44 miles north of New-York, is the first landing made by the boats in ascending the river ; directly opposite to which is PEEKSKILL, pleasantly situ. ated about half a mile from the river. A short distance north of Caldwell's, commences what is termed the Horse Race. This consists of an angle in the river, which, for a little more than a mile, takes an east. wardly direction, contracted to a very narrow space with. in bold and rocky mountains; one of which, ANTHONY'S Nose, is 1228 feet high, and is opposite the mouth of Montgomery creek, overlooking Forts Montgomery and Clinton. It was at this point, between the Nose and 106 WEST POINT. Fort Montgomery, that a chain was stretched across the river by the Americans in 1777, to prevent the ascent of vessels; but it was destroyed, and the two forts, under the command of Gen. Putnam, captured by the British troops under Sir Henry Clinton, when on his way to co- operate with Gen. Burgoyne ; the news of whose surren. der, however, reached Sir Henry when he had proceeded as far as Kingston, 50 miles higher up, and changed his advance into a retreat. Bloody Pond, so called from its being the place in which the bodies of the slain were thrown after the defences of these forts, is in the rear of Fort Clinton. West Point, 50 miles from New York, one of the most impregnable posts during the revolutionary war, is situated on the west side of the Hudson, near the en. trance of the Highlands on the north. It formed an im. portant fastness of the American army during the eight years contest with the British nation; and the conse- quence attached to it, in a military point of view, was evinced by the repeated but unsuccessful efforts of the enemy to obtain it. It was here that Arnold conceived the plan of bartering his country for gold.* This con- spiracy, however, which aimed a death blow to liberty in the western hemisphere, resulted only in the universal contempt and ignominy of Arnold, and in the lamented death of the unfortunate Andre. There are here at pre- * The residence of Gen. Arnold was at the house and farm of Col. Beverly Robinson, opposite West Point, on the east bank of the Hudson. The house is still a con. spicuous object, as well as the one in which Amold fixed his head-quarters. WEST POINT. 107 sent a number of dwelling houses, and a military acade. my, built on the plain which forms the bank of the river, 188 feet in height, to which a road ascends on the north side of the point. In the back ground, and elevated on a mass of rocks 598 feet in height, is the site of Fort Putnam. Silence and decay now mark the spot of this once formidable fortress. Its mouldering ruins, however, convey a pretty correct idea of the impregnable barrier its ramparts once presented to the enemies of freedom. The MILITARY ACADEMY here established by congress, was first organized in 1802. Of the number of applicants for admission to this institution, a preference is usually given, first, to the sons of officers of the revolution; and secondly, to the sons of deceased officers of the last war. None are admitted under the age of 14 years, nor above the age of 22. The number of cadets is limited to 250, affording an annual admission of about 60. In addition to the various sciences which are taught here, the cadets are instructed in all the practical minutiæ of tactics; comprehending the lowest duties of the private soldier, as well as the highest duties of the officer. Several of the buildings at West Point are elegant, and among the number may be ranked a spacious and costly hotel, which is a prominent object from the river. Near the north eastern extremity of the parade grounds, at the abrupt bend of the river, stands a monument of white marble, consisting of a base and short column, on the for- mer of which is simply inscribed on one side, “ Koscius. ko,” it having been erected to the memory of that dis- tinguished patriot, who resided here. Another monu- ment stands on the north west corner of the grounds near 12 108 NEW-WINDSOR. the road from the landing to the hotel, upon a small hil- lock. It is a plain obelisk, about 20 feet high, erected by the late Gen. Brown, to the memory of Col. E. D. Wood, & pupil of the institution, who fell leading a charge at the sortie from Fort Erie, on the 17th September, 1814. On the bank of the Hudson, at the south eastern ex. tremity of the parade ground, and several yards beneath, is a spot called Kosciusko's garden, or Kosciusko’s re- treat. It is the place to which the Polish patriot was ac- customed to retire to study, and which was cultivated by his own hands. Though now neglected, the marks of cultivation are perceptible in the regularity of the walks and the arrangement of the trees. A more delightful spot for recreation or repose cannot be imagined, nor one more suitable as a retreat from the cares of the great world, or a sanctuary for unfortunate patriotism or perse- cuted virtue. POLLOPEL Island is situated at the northern entrance of the Highlands, 6 miles above West Point. It consists of a mass of rock, and rises near the centre of the river between Breakneck Hill on the east and Butter Hill on the west. The altitude of the latter is 1529 feet—that of the former is 1187 feet, and contains the rock called the Upper Anthony's Nose. New-Windsor. Passing the Highlands, the prospect changes into a very agreeable contrast. The bay of Newburgh with the village of the same name, New. Windsor, and on the opposite shore the village of Fishkill, with its numerous adjacent manufactories and country seats, together with a view of the Hudson for many miles above, form a prospect which cannot fail to impart much NEWBURGH. 109 interest. The village of New-Windsor stands on the east side of the river, 7 miles from West Point. It is calculated for a pleasant place of residence, but in busi- ness it must yield to NEWBURGH. This is an incorporated village, situated on the declivity of a hill on the west side of the Hudson, 10 miles north from West Point, and 84 south from Albany. It contains a population of about 5000 inhabit- ants. From its situation it commands an extensive in- tercourse and trade with the country on the west, and by means of the Hudson river, with New-York. The Hudson and Delaware rail road, which is to ex- tend from this village to a junction with the New York and Erie rail road at the Delaware river, has been com- menced. Newburgh was for some time the head quarters of the American army during the revolutionary war; and the “stone house”, in which Gen. Washington quartered is still standing. On the opposite side of the river from Newburgh is Beacon Hill, one of the highest summits of the Fishkill mountains, where parties of pleasure fre- quently resort in the summer season, to witness an ex- tent of prospect including a part of the territories of five different states. This hill is 1471 feet in height. Half a mile south is the New Beacon, or Grand Sachem, 1685 feet above the level of the Hudson. They are called Beacon Hills, from the circumstance that beacons were erected on their summits during the revolutionary war. The continuation of this chain of mountains is lost in the Appalachian Range on the north east, and extends south as far as the eye can reach. Diminished in distance, is 110 POUGHKEEPSIE. seen West Point, environed by mountains, apparently re. posing on the surface of the Hudson, and bathing their rocky summits in the clouds. Eight miles and a half north of Newburgh, in an ele- vated position on the east side of the river, is the mansion house of the former Gov. George Clinton; two and a half miles from which, on the west side, is the small vil. lage of Milton. This place is talled the halfway place be- tween New-York and Albany, being 72 1.2 miles distant from each. POUGHKEEPSIE, 15 miles north of Newburgh, is beau- tifully situated on elevated ground, and is seen for a con- siderable distance on the river both above and below the town. It has a population of between 9 and 10,000, and is one of the most flourishing villages in the state. It contains a number of beautiful private residences, and several' public buildings highly creditable to the taste of the inhabitants. The streets, which are numerous, are well paved, and the side walks ample and neat. Man- sion Square and the neighboring hill, whose brow has been crowned with a beautiful temple of learning, afford a landscape of great extent and beauty. On the south they overlook the village and the beautiful district of country extending to the Fishkill range of mountains and the Highlands. On the west and north are seen in the distance the Shawangunk and Catskill mountains, the Hudson river intervening ; while on the east the prospect is bounded only by the mountainous regions of western Connecticut and Massachusetts. CATSKILD. 11r Opposite Poughkeepsie is a small village, called New PALTz. HYDE PARK LANDING is 5 miles north, on the east side of the river. Near it are a number of country seats. From thence, 4 miles farther, is a landing place, leading to Staatsburgh, 1 mile distant, in the town of Hyde Park. From thence to Rhinebeck Landing (east side) is 5 miles*_thence to Redhook Lower Landing (same side) is 7 miles-thence to Redhook Upper Landing, (same side) 3 miles thence 2 miles to the seat of the late Chan- cellor Livingston-thence 7 miles to the manor house of the late Lord Livingston (same side)-thence 1 mile to Oakhill-thence 1 mile to : CATSKILL This village takes its name from a large creek which flows through it, and empties into the Hud son at that place. It is situated on the west bank of the river, 32 miles from Albany, and contains a population of about 3000 inhabitants. On Catskill creek are a number of mills and manufactories, and the general appearance of the village is highly flattering, as it respects its future growth and prosperity. The Catskill and Canajoharie rail road, a few miles of which has been finished, com * Near this place, on the west side of the river, is KINGSTON LANDING, and the commencement of the Dela- ware and Hudson canal. It extends in a southwester. ly direction to the forks of the Dyberry on the Laxawax. en river, Pennsylvania, distant 103 miles, lockage 1438 feet. It was originally intended by the company to have made this canal to Keen's pond, 13 miles from its present termination, but it has been abandoned and a rail road substituted, which extends 3 miles west of Keen's pond to the anthracite coal mines of Pennsylvania. 312 PINE ORCHARD. mences at this place, and is to extend to Canajoharie, on the Mohawk river, distant about 70 miles. Catskill is in the immediate neighborhood of the Kats- bergs or Catskill mountains, which are seen for many miles along the Hudson, and here assume a truly majestic and sublime appearance. The highest elevation of this range of mountains is in the county of Greene, from 8 to 12 miles distant from the river, including the Round Top, 3804 feet, and High Peak, 3718 feet in height. The village of Catskill, which was formerly visited prin. cipally by men of business, has more recently become the resort of people of fashion and pleasure, who design a tour to the PINE ORCHARD, a place which, for several years past, has attracted the attention of all classes, and still con- tinues to draw to it numbers of those who are fond of novelty, and especially of the sublime and romantic scenery in which it abounds. Regular stages leave Cats. kill for the Pine Orchard daily in the warm season. The whole distance is 12 miles, computed as follows: From the village to Lawrence's tavern, 7 miles—from thence to the foot of the mountain, 2 miles from thence to Pine Orchard, 3 miles. The distance is passed, in going, in about 4 hours in returning, in about 2 hours. The country through which the road passes has nothing inter- esting in its appearance until it reaches the mountain, being generally uneven and barren, and diversified with but one or two comparatively small spots of cultivation, upon which the eye can rest with satisfaction. A short time is usually taken up at Lawrence's, for the purpose of refreshment, before encountering the rugged ascent of PINE ORCHARD. 113 the mountains. This part of the road is generally good, but circuitous, and often passes on the brink of some deep ravine, or at the foot of some frowning precipice, inspiring at times an unwelcome degree of terror. The rock upon which the hotel stands, forms a circular plat. form, of an uneven surface, and includes about six acres. It is elevated above the Hudson upwards of 2200 feet,* The Hotel is 140 feet in length, 24 feet in width, and 4 stories high, having piazzas in front of the whole length, and a wing extending in the rear for lodging rooms. It is well furnished, and possesses every conven. ience and accommodation requisite to the comfort and good cheer of its numerous guests. The prospect from Pine Orchard embraces a greater extent and more diver. sity of scenery than is to be found in any other part of the state, or perhaps of the United States. The vast vaa riety of fields, farms, villages, towns and cities between the Green Mountains of Vermont on the north, the High- lands on the south, and the Taghknaick mountains on the east, together with the Hudson river, studded with islands and vessels, some of which may be seen at even the distance of 60 miles, are apparent in a clear atmos-. * Capt. Partridge, who visited the Catskill mountains in 1828, made the following barometrical observations: Altitude of the Mountain House, at the Pine Orchard, above the surface of the Hudson river at Catskill vil. lage, 2212 feet. Do. of the same above the site of Lawrence's tavern, 7 miles from Catskill, 1882 feet. Do. of the same above the turnpike gate at the foot of the mountain, 1574 feet. Do. of the same above Green's bridge, 947 feet. COXSACKIE LANDING. 115 from 50 to 60 feet in height; and terminates on the east, at the foot of high-lands, which overlook the city at an elevation of some hundred feet, and furnish a prospect of the Hudson river and scenery for many miles in extent. The city contains about 6000 inhabitants. Claverack creek on the east, and Kinderhook creek on the north, afford every facility for mills and manufactories, in which Hudson abounds. On the opposite side of the river appear a number of country seats, with the farm houses and cultivation in the neighborhood of Athens and Cats- kill, bounded by the lofty Katsberghs, rising in the back ground and mingling their rugged summits with the clouds. The Hudson and Berkshire rail road, extending from Hudson to the village of West Stockbridge, is about 30 miles long. From the latter point a road is to be con. structed to Springfield, from whence a rail road extends to Boston, noticed in the “ Route from Albany to Bos. ton," post. CoxsACKIE LANDING, where are several houses and stores, is on the west side of the river, 8 miles north of Hudson. From thence to Kinderhook Landing, on the east side, is 2 miles. The village of Kinderhook is 5 miles east. Four miles further north is the village of New-Baltimore, (west side ;) thence to Coeymans, (same side,) 2 miles—thence to Schodack village (same side) 2 miles—thence to Castleton Landing (east side) 2 miles thence to Albany 8 miles. 116 ALBANY. ALBANY Is the capital of the state of New York, and in point of wealth, population, trade and resources, is the second city in the state, and the sixth or seventh in the union. It is situated on the west side of the Hudson river, and near the head of tide water. It was settled in 1612; and next to Jamestown in Virginia, is the oldest settlement in the United States. In 1614, a small fort and trading house were built by the Dutch on an island half a mile below the site of the present city; and soon afterwards Fort Orange, where the city now stands. The place was first called Aurania ; then Beverwyck, till 1625; then Fort Orange till 1647, and Williamstadt till 1664. For a long time after its foundation it was enclosed with pali- sadoes or pickets, as a defence against the Indians, who were then numerous and powerful in its vicinity. Though the first appearance of this city is not prepos. sessing to a stranger, still the taste which has been dis- played in the construction of its public and private build. ings—the constant din of commercial business which assails the ear of the traveller—the termination of the Erie canal and the Mohawk and Hudson rail road at this place, and many other attendant circumstances, render Albany an important and interesting spot. The city is divided into five wards, and contains many superb and elegant buildings. The principal avenues are Market, Pearl, and State streets. The two former run parallel with the river, and the latter is very spacious, extending from the Capitol to the Hudson, nearly east and west. Besides these, there are many other streets, ALBANY 117 less considerable in extent, but populous and crowded with shops and stores. The Capitol, which contains the legislative halls, the supreme and chancery court rooms of the state, the state library, and other apartments for public business, stands at the head of State street, on an elevation of 130 feet above the level of the river. It is a substantial stone ed. ifice, erected at an expense of $120,000. It is 115 feet in length, 90 in breadth, and 50 feet high, consisting of two stories and a basement. The Public SQUARE, fronting the Capitol, is arranged in the style of a park, and is surrounded by a costly iron railing, having several delightful walks and avenues. North of the capitol stands the ACADEMY, one of the most elegantly constructed buildings in the city. It con- sists of free stone, 3 stories high, and 90 feet of front. The City Hall, fronting the foot of Washington street, and near the capitol square, is a costly edifice of white marble, displaying much taste in its structure, and is or- namental to the part of the city in which it stands. The dome is gilded, and is a conspicuous object at some dis- tance from the city. The new State Hall, located north of the City Hall, is constructing of white marble, and, when finished, will not be surpassed by any edifice in the city. It will con- tain the offices of the secretary of state, comptroller, treasurer, surveyor general, attorney general, register in chancery, and clerk of the supreme court. The FEMALE ACADEMY, in North Pearl street, a beau. tiful and classical edifice, commanding a view of the east- 118 ALBANY. ern part of the city and opposite shore of the Hudson, under its popular principal, Mr. Cruttenden, receives an extensive patronage. The Baptist CHURCH, on the same side of the street, and but a few doors from the Academy, is also a very elegant structure. The pediments of both buildings pro. jecting at suitable distances from each other, give a very fine appearance to the street, by relieving the monotony of the long line of dwelling-houses in the neighborhood, without materially obstructing the view of the whole. There are also 20 other houses of public worship, seve- ral of which exhibit much taste in their architecture, six banks, and one of the best museums in the country. The MERCHANT'S EXCHANGE, built of granite, is located on the corner of State and North Market streets. Hotels.--The principal hotels in Albany, are the Ea. gle Tavern, South Market street; American Hotel, State street ; Congress Hall, Capitol Square ; Mansion House, City Hotel and Temperance House, North Market street. These are all first rate establishments, handsomely furnish- ed and well kept. On a less expensive scale, are the Fort Orange Hotel, Columbian Hotel, and Montgomery Hall, South Market street; and the Franklin House and Rail Road Hotel, State street. During the sessions of the New-York Legislature, Al. bany is crowded with strangers, and contains much of the legal talent and learning of the state. The city is eli- gibly situated for trade, being a great thoroughfare for the northern and western sections of the country. EXCUSION TO THE SPRINGS. 119 The ALBANY BASIN, where the waters of the Erie canal unite with the Hudson, consists of a part of the river in- cluded between the shore and an artificial pier erected 80 feet in width and 4300 feet in length. The pier contains about 8 acres, and is connected with the city by draw bridges. It is a grand and stupendous work, on which spacious and extensive stores have been erected, and where an immense quantity of lumber and other articles of trade are deposited. The basin covers a surface of 32 acres. EXCURSION TO THE SPRINGS. There are two distinct routes--one by the way of Schenectady, the other by the way of Troy. We give a sketch of each. Route by the way of Schenectaday—37 miles. The intermediate distances are as follow : Miles. | Miles. From Albany to Buel's Ballston Lake,....... 10 Farm, ............ 3 | Ballston Spa,........ 5 Schenectady,........ 12 Saratoga Springs,.... 7 The route is by the way of the Mohawk and Hudson and the Saratoga and Schenectady rail roads, the line being continuous to Saratoga Springs, and a passage effected in about 3 1-2 hours. The carriages of the Mo- hawk and Hudson company start several times a day from the depot on the north side of State street, a little below the Capitol Square in Albany, and the trains on the Saratoga and Schenectady road are made to corres- pond therewith. R2 120 SCHENECTADY. The FARM AND NURSERY of the late JESSE BUEL, Esq. under a high state of cultivation, are crossed by the rail road, about three miles from Albany. At the “head of the plane,” within a mile of the western extremity of the rail road, a beautiful view is obtained of the Erie canal, the Mohawk river, and the city of Schenectady. A double stationary engine is placed here, which is used in letting carriages down a de. clivity of 115 feet, half a mile in extent. From thence the road extends to the city, uniting with the Saratoga and with the Utica rail roads, the latter of which is no. ticed in the route to Buffalo, post. SCHENECTADY, Ffteen miles from Albany, and 22 from Saratoga Springs, is situated on the Mohawk, a broad and beauti. ful river, which forms its northern boundary. It was burnt by the Indians in 1690, and suffered a considerable conflagration in 1819, since which event the antique ap. pearance of the city has been much improved by the in- troduction of modern architecture. Union COLLEGE is built on an eminence, which over- looks the city and the Mohawk for a number of miles. The college consists at present of two brick edifices, but the plan includes a chapel and other bulidings hereafter to be erected, in the rear, and between those already con- structed. At this institution about 100 students are an- nually graduated. In numbers and respectabilty Union College may be ranked among the most favored semina. ries in our country. BALLSTON LAKE. 121 The city contains three banks, six churches, a spacious and handsome city hall, and a population of about 6000 inhabitants. THE SARATOGA AND SCHENECTADY RAIL ROAD, passing through the city, crosses the Mohawk river on a substan. tial bridge between 8 and 900 feet long, and extends in a northerly direction over a heavy embankment for three fourths of a mile to a deep cut, where the Utica road di. verges to the west, and the Saratoga to the northeast. This course is pursued until it enters the valley of the Eelplace creek, when it curves and maintains a northerly course, passing along the elegant and verdant banks of the Ballston Lake, and enters the eastern part of the vil. lage of Ballston Spa, on a curvature of considerable ex- tent. From this point the road passes in a northerly direction over the main street, on a bridge about 15 feet high, and by means of a heavy embankment, reaches the high grounds north of the village. From thence a north. easterly course is taken across the Kayaderosseras creek, and continues in nearly a straight line to Saratoga Springs. BALLSTON LAKE, or Long Lake as it is sometimes call. ed, is 10 miles from Schenectady. A farm house between the lake and road, owned by Mr. Elisha Curtis, was for. merly the residence of a man of the name of M'Donald, the guide of Sir William Johnson, on his first visit to the mineral springs at Saratoga, in 1767. Mr. M’D. was a native of Ireland, and on his first arrival in America, set. tled with his brother, in 1763, on this spot, where he con- tinued to reside until his decease, in 1823. Sir William passed some days at this house at the time of the visit BALLSTON SPA. 122 ned. The lake is a beautiful sheet of water - and 1 broad. The scenery around affords a for bondscape of cultivation and wood lands, no less Citing to the sportsman than the soft bosom of the lake and its finny inhabitants to the amateurs of the rod. above mentioned. The lake is a 5 mules long and 1 broad. The sce BALLSTON SPA, 1s 5 miles farther. The village lies in the town of Wilton, in the county of Saratoga ; and is situated in a low valley, through the centre of which flows a' branch of the Kayaderosseras, with whose waters it mingles at the east end of the village. The natural boundaries of Ballston Spa are well defined by steep and lofty hills of sand on the north and west, and by a ridge of land which gradually slopes inward, and encircles the village on the south and east. The broad and ample Kayaderosseras flows on the northeast boundary of the village, and fur- nishes a favorite resort for the sportsman or for the lont. erer along its verdant banks. The village contains 150 houses, and about 1400 inhabitants. Besides the court house for the county, located here, there are 4 churches, a bank, 2 printing offices and a book store, with which a reading room is connected, for the accom. modation of visitants. Ballston Spa principally derives its celebrity from the mineral springs which flow here and at Saratoga in equal abundance. The spring first discovered in the vicinity stands on the flat in the west part of the village. Under an impression that the stone curb and flaging with which it was formerly surrounded, had an influence, by their weight, in diverting a portion of the fountain from its 124 BALLSTON SPA. Low's SPRING is near the Sans Souci, and is very simi. lar to that fountain in its properties. The PARK SPRING is in the rear of the Village Hotel, and was obtained by boring to a depth of 270 feet. A copious stream flows therefrom. The water, however, affords much less of the saline substances than either of the other springs. The principal ingredients of these waters consist of muriate of soda, carbonate of soda, carbonate of lime, carbonate of magnesia, and carbonate of iron; all of which, in a greater or less degree, enter into the compo- sition of the waters, both here and at Saratoga. The principal boarding houses are the Sans Souci, the Village Hotel and Mansion House. The Sans Souci, with its yards and out-houses, occu. pies an area of some acres in the east part of the village. The plan of the building, with the extensive improve. ments around it, do much credit to the taste and libe. rality of its proprietor. The edifice is constructed of wood, three stories high, 160 feet in length, with two wings extending back 153 feet, and is calculated for the accommodation of 150 boarders. It is surrounded by a beautiful yard, ornamented with a variety of trees and shrubbery, which, with its extensive piazzas and spacious halls, render it a delightful retreat during the oppressive heat of summer. The VILLAGE HOTEL is in a convenient situation, a few rods west of the Sans Souci. It is kept by the pro- prietor, Mr. Clark, and is in every respect an agreeable and pleasant boarding place. FROM ALBANY VIA TROY TO SARATOGA. 125 The Mansion House, near the rail road bridge, is also well kept by Mr. Williams, its tenant. Mails arrrive at and depart from Ballston Spa every day. Besides a post office at the village, there is one in the town of Ballston, about three miles distant, to which letters are frequently missent, owing to the neglect of correspondents in making the proper direction. The reading room and library may be resorted to at all times, and for a moderate compensation. Papers are there furnished from all parts of the Union. Route from Albany by the way of Troy to Saratoga Springs-37 miles. The intermediate distances are as follow : By stage or steamboat. Miles. Miles. | Mechanicsville, ....... 8 From Albany to Troy,. 6 | Ballston Spa,......... 12 By rail road. Saratoga Springs,..... 7 Waterford,...........4 A stage or steamboat can be taken hourly at Albany for Troy. By the former mode of conveyance, the first object which usually attracts the attention of the tourist is the mansion of Gen. STEPHEN VAN RENSSELAER, the patroon, and a son of the late patroon of the manor of Rensselaerwick.* It stands immediately adjoining the northern bounderies of Albany, and is one of the most elegant situations in the United States. The Macadamized Road between Albany and West Troy, commences at this place. It runs parallel with the * This manor comprises a great portion of the counties of Albany and Rensselaer—the city and several patents excepted. 126 U. S. ARSENAL-WEST TROY. Erie canal, near its western bank, is between 5 and 6 miles long, of a width sufficient for three carriages to run abreast, and is one of the best roads on the con. tinent. It is the property of an incorporated company, who have expended between $90,000 and $100,000 in its construction. Five miles from Albany, in the village of West Troy, is the United States ARSENAL, consisting of handsome brick and stone buildings, beautifully located on the wes. tern bank of the Hudson. There are here a large quan. tity of arms and munitions of war, with workshops for repairing them, manufacturing locks, &c. The muskets, bayonets, swords and pistols are arranged with great taste, and kept in fine order. Among the cannon in the yard are four 12 pounders, one 24, and one howitzer, ta- ken at Saratoga ; four 12's and one howitzer, taken at Yorktown; two long antique pieces and one eight inch mortar, taken at Stony Point; two old French 4 poun. ders and 14 guns, sent by Louis XVI. to the continental congress in the revolution—all of brass, and most of them highly ornamented, with each an individual name and the inscription “ultima ratio regium.” There are also three or four howitzers which were cast in New York and Philadelphia in the revolution, bearing the initials U.C. for United Colonies. The village of West Troy has rapidly increased with. in a few years. It contains a bank and several manu. facturing establishments, and is a place of much activity and enterprize. The river is here crossed in a ferry boat, to TROY. 127 TROY. The city is bounded on the east by a range of hills rising abruptly from the alluvial plain on which the city is situated, extending to the Hudson river. In point of location and beautiful natural scenery, Troy is exceed- ed by few, if any, of the towns and villages on the Hud. son. The streets, running north and south, converge to- gether at the north end of the city, and are crossed at right angles by those running east and west. The build- ings are principally built of brick, and are shaded by rows of trees on each side of the streets, which are pre- served remarkably clean by additious of slate and gravel instead of pavements. The city contains 6 banks, 12 churches, a court house, jail and market. The EPISCO- PAL CHURCH is a superb specimen of Gothic architecture, probably not exceeded in the United States. It has a venerable and imposing appearance, and needs nothing but a quantity of moss and ivy to make it the picture of one of those ancient abbeys so often to be met with in the writings of Sir Walter Scott. The New PRESBY. TERIAN CHURCH also displays great taste and liberality in its construction, and is highly ornamental to that part of the city in which it stands. The Court House, built of Sing Sing marble, is a splendid edifice after the Grecian model, perfectly chaste and classic in all its parts. The FEMALE SEMINARY, incorporated by an act of the legislature, is a large three story brick building erected by the city corporation. The institution is under the government of a female principal, assisted by vice princi- 128 TROY. pals and several teachers, whose exertions have given it a deserved celebrity over similar institutions in the state. PUBLIC HOUSES. The TROY HOUSE, near the termination of the rail road in River street, is a spacious and elegant establishment, with a court yard in the centre, and kept in a style cor- responding with that of the most favored establishments in the union. The Mansion House, a little farther north, is on a scale equally chaste and spacious, in front of which is a handsome square and a beautiful marble fountain or jet d'eau, which diffuses a delightful coolness through the atmosphere, and attracts the observation of every stran. ger. The WASHINGTON HALL, NATIONAL HOTEL and AMER- ICAN HOTEL are also very neat establishments, and well patronized. The city is abundantly supplied with excellent water from the neighboring hills, on the Philadelphia plan, ex- cept, that in that city it is raised by artificial means, and in this by its natural head, being 75 feet above the level of the city. On the corner of each street is a hydrant, and a hose placed on this sends the water up higher and with much greater force than a fire engine. From this source is obtained the supply for several artificial foun. tains on the public squares and in private gardens. Troy is proverbial for its enterprise. This, with its local advantages, have given it a growth and prosperity equal. led by few and excelled by none of the cities at the north. Its population in 1830 was 11,605 ; in 1835, 16,959; and at the present period (1840) cannot be less than 20,000. RENSSELAER AND SARATOGA RAIL ROAD. 129 North-east of the plain upon which Troy is built, and about a quarter of a mile from the river, Mount Ida rises abruptly to the height of three or four hundred feet; from whose summit there is a very extensive prospect of the Hudson river and the adjacent country, embracing Wa. terford, Lansingburgh, the locks at the junction of the Erie and Champlain canals, nearly the whole of Troy, and a part of Albany. About a mile above the city, a dam has been thrown across the river, and a lock constructed, affording a sloop navigation to the village of Waterford. The RENSSELAER AND SARATOGA RAIL ROAD com- mences in River street near the Troy House, and passes up that street to the northern part of the city, where it crosses the main channel of the Hudson river on a superb covered bridge, 1512 feet long, to Green Island. From thence it proceeds in a northerly direction to Van Schaick's Island, which is connected with Green Island by a bridge 482 feet long over one of the sprouts of the Mohawk river. Another bridge over another sprout is then passed in reaching Hawver Island; and from thence to the village of Waterford a third bridge is crossed in passing over the third or minor sprout. At Waterford the road passes through one of the principal streets, and from thence continues a northerly course through the rich valley of the Hudson, between the river and the Cham- plain canal, for a distance of 8 miles, to Mechanicsville; when, after crossing the canal, it curves to the north- west, and pursuing the valley of “the creek,” so called, passes the Round lake, about 4 miles from Mechanics- ville. The Mourning creek is reached in going 6 miles 130 LANSINGBURGH-WATERFORD. farther ; from whence the road runs nearly parallel with and in sight of the Saratoga and Schenectady rail road for a distance of two miles, to the village of Ballston Spa ; where the two roads unite, and the carriages of both roads, by an arrangement between the two companies, are taken in the same train to Saratoga Springs. From Green Island, a bridge extends across the west channel of the Hudson to West Troy. Van Schaick's Island is formed by the sprouts of the Mohawk river joining with the Hudson river, 3 miles north of Troy. This spot is noted for being the head quarters of the American army in 1777; from whence they marched, in September of the same year, to the de. cisive victory over Burgoyne, at Bemus' Heights. LANSINGBURGH, on the eastern bank of the Hudson, di- rectly opposite Van Schaick’s Island, is principally built on a single street, running parallel with the river. A high hill rises abruptly behind the village, on which is seen the celebrated diamond rock, which at times emits a brilliant lustre from the reflected rays of the sun. The appearance of Lansingburgh by no means indicates a high state of prosperity, though it contains several very handsome private residences. The village has a bank, six places of public worship, and an academy. Its popu- lation is about 3000. Waterford is one mile farther. The village is situa. ted at the junction of the Mohawk with the Hudson, and derives considerable importance from the navigation of small vessels, which, by means of the lock and dam below, at most seasons of the year arrive and depart to and from COHOES FALLS—THE JUNCTION. 131 its docks. The village contains a population of about 1600 inhabitants. It enjoys many advantages for trade, and its importance is much increased by the Champlain canal, which here communicates with the Hudson river. A very permanent bridge crosses the Hudson at this place, connecting with a road leading to Lansingburgh. At Waterford, if leisure will permit, the tourist will find it interesting to stop a day, for the purpose of visiting the Cohoes Falls, and the adjoining factories on the Mo. hawk river, about a mile from the village. The perpen. dicular fall is about 40, and including the descent above, about 70 feet. The lofty barrier of rocks which confine the course of the Mohawk-the distant roar of the cata- ract—the dashing of the waters as they descend in rapids beneath you—and the striking contrast of the torrent with the solitude of the scenery above, contribute to render the whole an unusual scene of sublimity and grandeur. It was in taking a view of these falls, sey. eral years since, that the poet Moore composed one of his best fugitive pieces. Indeed, the scenery and every thing connected with this interesting spot, are calculated to afford ample subjects for the poet and painter. Between this place and Schenectady the canal is car. ried twice across the Mohawk. The lower aqueduct, as it is called, two and a half miles from the falls, is 1188 feet—the other, 12 miles further, is 750 feet long. The JUNCTION of the Erie and Champlain canals, about a mile from the falls, should also be visited in the ex- cursion. Here, within the space of three quarters of a mile, are 17 locks; and the number of boats constantly L2 132 SARATOGA SPRINGS. passing through, present a spectacle of activity and bu. siness of a highly novel character. MECHANICSVILLE, 8 miles from Waterford, (pursuing the route of the rail road,) is a small manufacturing vil. lage on the bank of the Hudson. The hydraulic power, however, here derived, is from “ the creek,” the outlet of the Round lake, mentioned at page 129. BALLSTON SPA, 12 miles farther, has been already no ticed at p. 122. SARATOGA SPRINGS Is situated seven miles northeasterly from Ballston Spa. The village is located on an elevated spot of ground, surrounded by a productive level country, and enjoys, if not the advantage of prospect, at least a salubrious air and climate, contributing much to the health and benefit of its numerous visitants. It contains about 200 dwellings, and a population of 2000 inhabitants. The springs, so justly celebrated for their medicinal virtues, are situated on the margin of a vale, bordering the village on the east, and are the continuation of a chain of springs discovering themselves about 12 miles to the south, in the town of Ballston, and extending easterly in the form of a crescent, to the Quaker village, 7 or 8 miles in an easterly direc- tion from Saratoga Springs. The springs in the immedi- ate' vicinity of the latter place are 10 or 12 in number, the principal of which are the Congress, the Iodine or Walton, Putnam's Congress, the Monroe, the Hamilton, the Flat Rock, the High Rock, the Columbian and the Washington. A new spring, affording a very copious supply and apparently very saline, was discovered in the SARATOGA SPRINGS. 133 fall of 1839, a short distance south of the Flat Rock ; but no analysis had been made at the time of the publi- cation of this volume, to enable us to speak particularly of its properties. About a mile northeast of the village, there are also a cluster of fountains, called the Ten Springs. THE CONGRESS SPRING is situated at the south end of the village, and is owned by Doct. John Clarke ; to whose liberality the public are much indebted for the im. provements that have been made in the grounds adjoin- ing the fountain, for the purity in which its waters are preserved, and for an elegant colonnade erected over the spring, affording a convenient promenade to visitants. The spring was first discovered in the summer of 1792, issuing from a crevice in the rock, a few feet from its present location. Here it flowed for a number of years, until an attempt to improve the surface around it pro- duced an accidental obstruction of its waters, which af, terwards made their appearance at the place where they now flow. It is enclosed by a tube sunk into the earth to the distance of 12 or 14 feet, which secures it from the water of a stream, adjoining which it is situated. From an analysis made by Doct. Steel, it appears that a gallon of the water contains the following substances : chloride of sodium, 385 grs.; hydriodate of soda, 3 1-2 grs.; bicarbonate of soda, nearly 9 grs.; bicarbonate of magnesia, nearly 96 grs. ; carbonate of lime, a little more than 98 grs.; carbonate of iron, upwards of 5 grs.; silex 1 1-2 grs.; carbonic acid gas, 311 cubic inches ; atmos- pheric air, 7 do. 134 SARATOGA SPRINGS. To this spring perhaps more than any other spot on the globe, are seen repairing, in the summer mornings before breakfast, persons of almost every grade and condition, from the most exalted to the most abject : the beautiful and the deformed—the rich and the poor—the devotee of pleasure and the invalid-all congregate here, for pur- poses as various as are their situations in life. To one fond of witnessing the great diversity in the human char. acter, this place affords an ample field for observation. So well, indeed, has it been improved by the little urchins who dip water at the fountain, that an imposing exterior is sure to procure for its possessor their services, while in- dividuals less richly attired, or whose physiognomy indi- cate a less liberal disposition, are often compelled to wait till it is more convenient to attend to their wants. Most persons soon become fond of the water ; but the effect on those who taste it for the first time is fre. quently unpleasant. To such the other fountains are generally more palatable, having a less saline taste than the Congress. The IODINE or WALTON SÓring, is located a few rods north of the High Rock, and was discovered in the au- tumn of 1838. It flows copiously through a tube sunk to a depth of 6 or 8 feet-is very pure and pungent-and while it contains most of the properties of the other foun tains, in a greater or less degree, is remarkable for its free dom from iron. According to an analysis made by Pro fessor Emmons, one gallon of this water contains, muriat: of soda, 137 grs.; carbonate of lime, 26 grs.; carbonate of iron, 1 gr.; carbonate of magnesia, 75 grs.; carbonate of soda, 2 grs.; hydriodate of soda, or iodine, 3 1-2 grs.; SARATOGA SPRINGS. 135 carbonic acid gas, 330 cubic inches ; atmospheric air, 4 inches. The approach to this fountain has been rendered easy; and it is already beginning to be a place of very consid- erable resort. It bids fair, indeed, to become as efficacious and celebrated as any mineral spring yet discovered. The MONROE SPRING, a few rods north of the Flat Rock, is remarkable for its sparkling and pungent qualities, and is justly ranked among the favored fountains of the village. Near it is a strong sulphur spring, (recently discover ed,) which supplies a commodious bathing establishment on the premises. Putnam's CONGRESS (deriving its name from the dis. coverer and owner) is a few rods north of the Hamilton Spring. A mineral fountain flowed from the same local- ity for several years, without any particular notice, and the present spring has been obtained by sinking a tube to a considerable depth. It is a valuable and popular fountai n. The High Rock is situated on the west side of the valley, skirting the east side of the village, about half a mile north of the Congress. The rock enclosing this spring is in the shape of a cone, 9 feet in diameter at its base, and five feet in height. It seems to have been formed by a concretion of particles thrown up by the water, which formerly flowed over its summit through an aperture of about 12 inches diameter, regularly di- verging from the top of the cone to its base. This spring was visited in the year 1767 by Sir William Johnson, but was known long before by the Indians, who were 136 SARATOGA SPRINGS. first led to it either by accident or by the frequent haunts of beasts, attracted thither by the saline properties of the water. A building was erected near the spot previous to the revolutionary war; afterwards abandoned, and again resumed; since which the usefulness of the water has, from time to time, occasioned frequent settlements with- in its vicinity. The water now rises within 2 feet of the summit, and a common notion prevails that it has found a passage through a fissure of the rock occasioned by the fall of a tree; since which event it has ceased to flow over its brink. This opinion, however, may be doubted. It is probable that the decay of the rock, which commenced its formation on the natural surface of the earth, may have yielded to the constant motion of the water, and at length opened a passage between its decayed base and the loose earth on which it was formed. This idea is strengthened from the external appearance of the rock at its eastern base, which has already been penetrated by the implements of curiosity a number of inches. Between the Iodine Spring in the upper village, and the Washington in the south part of the lower village, are situated most of the other mineral springs in which this place abounds. At four of the principal fountains, the Putnam's Congress, Hamilton, Monroe and Washing- ton, large and convenient bathing houses have been erect- ed, which are constantly resorted to for pleasure as well as health, during the warm season. The mineral waters both at Ballston and Saratoga are supposed to be the product of the same great labrato- ry, and they all possess nearly the same properties, va- SARATOGA SPRINGS. 137 rying only as to the quantity of the different articles held in solution. They are denominated acidulous saline and acidulous chalybeate. Of the former are the Congress, Iodine, Monroe, Putnam's Congress, the Hamilton, and High Rock, at Saratoga ; and of the latter are the Co- lumbian, Flat Rock, and Washington, at Saratoga, and the Old Spring, and Sans Souci, at Ballston. The waters contain muriate of soda, hydriodate of soda, carbonate of soda, carbonate of lime, carbonate of magnesia, oxide of iron, and some of them a minute quantity of silicia and alumina. Large quantities of carbonic acid gas are also contained in the waters, giving to them a sparkling and lively appearance. The late Doct. Steel, in his geological report of the county of Saratoga, published a few years since, remarks, that “the temperature of the water in all these wells is about the same, ranging from 48 to 52 degrees on Faren. heit's scale; and they suffer no sensible alteration from any variation in the temperature of the atmosphere; nei- ther do the variations of the seasons appear to have much effect on the quantity of water produced. “ The waters are remarkably limpid, and when first dipped sparkle with all the life of good champaign. The saline waters bear bottling very well, particularly the Congress,* immense quantities of which are put up in this way, and transported to various parts of the world; not, however, without a considerable loss of its gaseous prop- erty, which renders its taste much more insipid than when drank at the well. The chalybeate water is also * The water of the Iodine Spring is also equally favor- able for bottling. 138 SARATOGA SPRINGS. put up in bottles for transportation, but a very trifling loss of its gas produces an immediate precipitation of its iron ; and hence this water, when it has been bottled for some time, frequently becomes turbid, and finally loses every trace of iron; this substance fixing itself to the walls of the bottle. " The most prominent and perceptible effects of these waters, when taken into the stomach, are cathartic, diu. retic and tonic. They are much used in a great variety of complaints; but the diseases in which they are most efficacious are jaundice and bilious affections generally, dyspepsia, habitual costiveness, hypochondrical com. plaints, depraved appetite, calculous and enphritic com. plaints, phagedenic or ill-conditioned ulcers, cutaneous eruptions, chronic rheuniatism, some species or states of gout, some species of dropsy, scrofula, paralysis, scorbutic affections and old scorbutic ulcers, amenorrhea, dysme.. norrhea and clorosis. In phthisis, and indeed all other pulmonary affections arising from primary diseases of the lungs, the waters are manifestly injurious, and evidently tend to increase the violence of the disease. “Much interest has been excited on the subject of the source of these singular waters; but no researches have as yet un ſolded the mystery. The large proportion of common salt found among their constituent properties may be accounted for without much difficulty—all the salt springs of Europe, as well as those of America, being found in geological situations exactly corresponding to these ; but the production of the unexampled quantity of carbonic acid gas, the medium through which the other articles are held in solution, is yet, and probably will re. SARATOGA SPRINGS. 139 main a subject of mere speculation. The low and regu. lar temperature of the water seems to forbid the idea that it is the effect of subterranean heat, as many have sup- posed, and the total absence of any mineral acid, except- ing the muriatic, which is combined with soda, does away the possibility of its being the effect of any combination of that kind. Its production is therefore truly unaccount. able."* In addition to the springs already enumerated, a sul- PHUR SPRING was discovered a few years since in the vi- * An analysis of the waters at this place and at Ballston Spa was made and published by Doct. Steel some years since, which received the sanction of the most scientific men in this country and in Europe. Subsequently, and shortly before his death in 1838, he prepared an entire new work, which has since been published, embracing not only an analysis of the springs and directions for their use in the various diseases in which they have proved beneficial, but also a full and interesting history of their discovery, and of the rise and progress of the villages in which they are located. The literary attainments of Doct. S. and his great experience from a long residence at this place, enabled him to render this work far su- perior to any thing of the kind which has appeared, or which will probably soon appear. It ought also to be remarked, that no invalid should attempt the use of these waters without the direction of a physician well acquaint. ed with their properties. A contrary course, under the too prevalent and erroneous impression that they may be drank in all complaints, in any quantity, and at all hours of the day, has been attended in many instances with deleterious and sometimes with fatal consequences. There can be no doubt of their great efficacy in most complaints, when properly used; yet ill-timed and too copious draughts not only fail of removing complaints, * but frequently engender them. · 140 SARATOGA SPRINGS. cinity of the Hamilton Spring, in the rear of the Congress Hall. It rises from a depth of about 20 feet, and affords an ample supply of water for the bathing house with which it is connected. The boarding establishments of the first class at Sara. toga Springs are the Congress Hall and Union Hall at the south end of the village, the Pavilion at the north, and the United States Hotel in a central situation be- tween them. Besides these, there are a number of other boarding houses on a less extensive scale, the most noted of which are the American and the Adelphi in the south part, the Columbian Hotel and Washington Hall in the north part of the village, and the Rail Road House cen- trally located. Prospect Hall, kept by Mr. Benjamin R. Putnam, is on a beautiful site about one mile north-west of the village, and is a very respectable establishment. Highland Hall, half a mile south of the Congress Spring, is also a pleasant house, and well patronized. The Congress Hall, kept by Messrs, Seaman and Munger, is situated within a few rods of the Congress Spring, to which a handsome walk shaded with trees has been constructed for the convenience of guests. The edifice is 200 feet in length, 3 stories high besides an at. 'tic, and has two wings extending back, one 60, and the other about 100 feet. In front of the hall, handsomely shaded with shrubbery and trees, is a spacious piazza, 20 feet in width, extending the whole length of the building, with a canopy from the roof, supported by 17 columns, each of which is gracefully entwined with woodbine. There is also a back piazza, which opens upon a beautiful garden annexed to the establishment, SARATOGA SPRINGS, 141 and a small grove of pines, affording both fragrance and shade to its numerous guests. The Congress Hall can accommodate from 250 to 300 visitants, and is justly ranked among the most elegant establishments in the union. The United States Hotel, kept by Messrs. Thomas and Marvin, with its gardens and out buildings, occupies a space in the centre of the village of about five acres. The main building is composed of brick, 186 feet long, 36 feet wide, and 4 stories high. It has two wings extend. ing westwardly—one 204 feet, and the other 163 feet long. Attached to the establishment are also two cotta- ges, contiguous to one of the wings. A broad piazza stretches across the main building in front, and is con- nected with piazzas in the rear, so as to form a continu- ous promenade of more than 700 feet. The interior arrangements are on a proportionate scale—the dining room being 200 feet long, and with the drawing-rooms, public and private parlours, equalling if not surpassing, in extent and elegance, any similar establishment. The ground in the rear is handsomely laid out into walks, and the whole tastefully ornamented with trees and shrubbery. The front is also shaded by a double row of forest trees extending the whole length of the building. The hotel is situated equi. distant from the Congress and Flat Rock springs, commanding a view of the whole village; and from its fourth story a distinct prospect is had of the sur. rounding country for a number of miles. This establish- ment can accommodate 400 visitants, and is probably the largest and one of the most expensive of the kind in the United States. SARATOGA SPRINGS. The PAVILION is located in a pleasant part of the village, immediately in front of the Flat Rock spring. The building is constructed of wood, 136 feet long, with a wing extending back from the centre of the main building 80 feet, and another extending along Church street, of 200 feet, affording numerous private parlors, communi. cating with lodging rooms, for the convenience of families. The main building is two and a half stories high, with the addition of an attic which, with the handsome piazza in front, sustained by delicate colonnades, renders it, in beau- ty and proportion, one of the first models of architecture in the country. The large rooms of the Pavilion are so constructed, that by means of folding doors the whole of the lower apartments may be thrown into one—an advan. tage which gives much additional interest to the promen- ade and cotillion parties, which frequently assemble on this extensive area. Handsome walks, shaded with trees, are attached to the establishment, affording its guests ample space for a quiet and cool retreat. The Pavilion is calculated for the accommodation of about 250 visi. tants. The Union Hall is one of the earliest and most re. spectable establishments in the vicinity, and is situated directly opposite the Congress Hall. It presents a hand. some front, 120 feet long, 3 stories high, with two wings extending west 60 feet, and also an adjoining building, nearly 100 feet long, fitted up with parlors, &c. for private families. The Hall is ornamented in front by 10 col. umns, which rise to nearly the height of the building, and support the roof of a spacious piazza. A garden in the rear also contributes to the pleasantness of the establish. SARATOGA SPRINGS. 143 ment. It is kept by Messrs. R. & W. Putnam, and ranks in point of elegance and respectability with the most favored public houses in the vicinity. The AMERICAN HOTEL, a few doors north of the Union Hall, is a spacious brick building, recently erected by its proprietor, Mr. Wilcox, and is fitted up and kept in a style to ensure it a liberal patronage. The ADELPHI HOTEL, adjoining on the north, is also a large building of brick, 3 stories high, and is well fur. nished and well kept by its proprietor, Mr. Sadler. The COLUMBIAN HOTEL stands a few yards south of the Pavilion. Annexed to the establishment is a handsome garden, lying on three sides of the building, which adds much to the beauty and advantage it enjoys in point of natural location. The WASHINGTON Hall, is beautifully located at the north part of the village, and is patronized by strangers who do not wish to mingle in the pleasures of the larger establishments. The price of board per week at the respective houses is from 4 to 12 doilars. The READING Rooms and LIBRARY are in a neat build. ing three doors north of the U. S. Hotel. Nearly 100 newspapers from various parts of the Union and the Can- adas, and about 2000 volumes of well selected books for circulation, embracing the modern publications, are kept in these rooms. A register of the names of visitants at the Springs is also open for inspection at the establish- ment. The names thus entered frequently number from 10 to 12,000 in the course of the season. M2 144 SARATOGA LAKE. At both the villages of Ballston and Saratoga Springs, there are always sufficient objects of amusement to ren- der the transient residence of their summer guests pleas- ant and agreeable. Those whose taste is not otherwise gratified can always enjoy a mental recreation at the reading rooms; a ride on the rail road, carriages for which leave both villages several times a day; or a short excursion in the neighborhood, where sufficient beauty and novelty of scenery are always presented to render it interesting. The amusements of the day are usually crown. ed with a ball or promenade. The respective apartments appropriated for these occasions are calculated to accom- modate from 250 to 300 guests; but they often contain a much greater number. The spacious areas of the cotillion rooms, when enli- vened by the associated beauty and gayety resorting to the Springs, present an unusual degree of novelty and fascination. About two miles east from Saratoga Springs there is a small fish pond, situated on the farm of a Mr. Barheydt. Parties often resort thither, as well to enjoy the amuse- ments of fishing as to partake of a repast on trout, the proprietor reserving to himself the exclusive privilege of serving them up. Still farther east, about 4 miles from the Springs, is situated the SARATOGA LAKE. This lake is 9 miles long and 3 broad. Sail boats are fitted up at the Lake House, for the accommodation of parties of pleasure, and implements for fishing are always in readiness for those who take pleasure in this fashionable diversion. The western shores of the lake are accessible but in a few places, in LI BEMUS' HEIGHTS. 145 consequence of the adjacent marshes ; on the east side the land is more elevated, and presents a fine prospect of farms under good improvement. The Lake is supplied with water from the Kayaderosseras creek, which, taking its rise about 20 miles in a northwest direction, and re- ceiving in its course a number of tributary streams, flows into the lake on the west side. Fish creek forms its out. let, through which the waters of the lake are communi. cated to the Hudson river, about 8 miles distant in an easterly direction. This creek empties into the Hudson river at Schuylerville, noticed at p. 147. Bemus' Heights, rendered memorable as the spot on which the British army under Gen. Burgoyne was defeat- ed in the revolutionary contest, are about 8 miles in a south-easterly direction from the Lake House. The battle ground is 2 miles west of the Hudson river; and though without much to attract in its location or sur. rounding scenery, will nevertheless prove interesting from its association with events which greatly contributed to the establishment of American independence. The two actions which preceded the surrender of the British army were fought on the 19th of September, 1777, and on the 17th of October following. On the morning of the 8th, the American army marched into the British camp, which had been deserted the evening previous. The enemy continued to retreat till they had reached the height beyond the Fish creek, where they encamped on the 10th. Finding his retreat cut off by a party of troops, who had taken possession in his rear, and his advance impeded by superior numbers, General Burgoyne accepted the terms of capitulation, proposed by General Gates, and 146 BEMUS' HEIGHTS. surrendered his whole army to the American forces on the 17th October, 1777. The surrender took place at Fort Hardy, where the British stacked their arms, and were permitted to march out with the honors of war. Freeman's Farm, on which the principal actions were fought, is immediately east of the main road running north and south, a road passing directly across it to the Hudson river, in an eastwardly direction. In a meadow adjoining the first mentioned road, about ten rods south of a blacksmith's shop, and near the fence, is the spot where Gen. Frazer fell.* A large bass wood tree marked the place for a time; but having been cut down, several sprouts which have sprung up from the parent stock, now designate the spot: A few rods directly south of this, on a slight eminence, is shown the place where Col. Cilley sat astride of a brass twelve pounder, exulting in its capture; and about half a mile still farther south is shown the house yet standing, which was used by Gen. Gates as his head quarters. In proceeding to the river, the hill on which Gen. Fra. zer is buried is pointed out, about a mile and a half east of the battle ground, and 20 rods north of the road. His remains were deposited, at his request, within a redoubt on the top of this hill. The redoubt, which is of an ob- long form, from 100 to 150 feet in diameter, is still per. fectly visible; and the spot of Gen. Frazer's interment is near the centre, though no monument of any description * Gen. Frazer was second in command to Gen. Bur. goyne, and died on the 8th October, 1777, from wounds received in battle the day previous. SCHUYLER-VILLE. 147 has ever been erected to mark the place where the remains of this gallant warrior repose. SMITH's House, in which Gen. Frazer died, and which at that time stood near the foot of this hill, has been re- moved about 80 rods in a northeasterly direction to the turnpike. It is a low old fashioned Dutch building, with the gable end to the river, painted yellow—the sides red, and shingle roof. The entrance is towards the river, un- der a dilapidated portico-the whole bearing the marks of antiquity. The room in which Gen. Frazer died is di- rectly in front, and has undergone no material change since his death. Eight miles north of this, on the turnpike, is the vil. lage of SCHUYLER-VILLE, noted as the residence of the late Gen. Schuyler, and still more so as the place where Gen. Burgoyne surrendered to the American army in October, 1777. The ground on which the surrender took place, was in a vale nearly east, and in plain view of the stage house on the turnpike in the village, and still exhibits the re- mains of an entrenchment called Fort Hardy. About 40 rods in a southeast direction, at the mouth of Fish creek, is the site of Fort Schuyler. The arms of the British were stacked in the vale in front of Fort Hardy, and from thence they were marched to the high grounds a little west of the village, and admitted to parol as pris- oners of war. At the southern extremity of the vale is a basin for the Champlain canal, which passes through this place. About half a mile south of the basin stands a 148 FORT EDWARD. house located on the spot where once stood the mansion of Gen. Schuyler, which, with other buildings, were burnt by the British army on their retreat from the battle of the 7th October. The village contains 80 or 90 houses, and an extensive cotton factory and machine shop. FORT-Edward is 12 miles north of Schuyler-Ville. It is not on the usual route of travellers from the Springs to Lake George ; but being a short distance only from Sandy Hill, it may be easily visited. The fort, once situated where the village now stands, has long since been demol. ished; though its former location is easily traced in the mounds of earth which are still visible. About 100 rods north of the village is a dam across the Hudson river, 27 feet high and 900 feet long, supplying with water a feeder to the Champlain canal. A little north of this, on the west side of the road, the traveller is shown a large pine tree, with a spring near its foot, memorable as the spot where Miss M'Crea was murdered by the Indians during the revolutionary war. She was betrothed to a Mr. Jones, an American refugee, who was in Burgoyne's army. Anxious for a union with his intended bride, he despatched a party of Indians to escort her to the British camp. Against the remon. strance of her friends, she committed herself to the charge of these Indians. She was placed on horseback, and ac- companied her guides to the spring in question, where they were met by another party, sent on the same er. rand. An altercation ensued between them as to the promised reward, and while thus engaged, they were at. tacked by the whites. At the close of the conflict, the SANDY HILL-GLEN'S FALLS. 149 unhappy young woman was found a short distance from the spring, tomahawked and scalped. There is a tradition that her scalp was divided by the respective parties, and carried to her agonized lover. He is said to have sur- vived the shock but a short time, and to have died of a broken heart. The name of Miss M'Crea is inscribed on a tree, with the date 1777. Her remains were disinterred a few years since, and deposited in the church-yard at. Sandy-Hill. SANDY Hill is two miles from Fort Edward, on the route from Saratoga Springs to Lake George. It is situ- ated on very elevated ground, on the margin of the Hud. son river, immediately above Baker's Falls, about 19 miles from the Springs. The streets are laid out in the form of a triangle. In the centre is an open area, sur- rounded by handsomely constructed stores and dwellings. The village contains about 100 houses and 600 inhabi. tants. The courts of the county are held alternately here and at Salent. GLEN's Falls, a village more populous, is 3 miles fur- ther up the Hudson river, on the direct route to Lake George. At this place are the celebrated falls from which the village takes its name. These are situated about one fourth of a mile south of the village, near a bridge, extending partly over the falls, and from which the best view of them may be had. The falls are formed by the waters of the Hudson, which flow in one sheet over the brink of the precipice, but are immediately di. vided by the rocks into three channels. The height of the falls is ascertained, by measurement, to be 63 feet; CALDWELL. 151 There are extensive quarries of black and variegated marble at Glen's Falls, which is here sawed into slabs and transported to New-York for manufacture. From Glen's Falls to Lake George the distance is 9 miles over an indifferent road, affording little other varie- ty than mountains and forests, with here and there a rus, tic hamlet. Within three and a half miles of Lake George on the right hand, and a short distance from the road, is pointed out the rock at the foot of which Col. Williams was massacred by the Indians, during the French war. At the distance of half a mile farther, on the same side of the road, is the “ Bloody Pond,” so call- ed from its waters having been crimsoned with the blood of the slain who fell in its vicinity, during a severe en- gagement in 1755. Three miles farther is situated the village of CALDWELL, on the south-western margin of the lake. This village contains a number of neat little buildings, and about 400 inhabitants. The Lake George Coffee House is fitted up in good style, and can accommodate Sacondaga river, a large and rapid stream, which rises about 60 miles at the north-west. Both of these rivers abound with trout and other fish, affording ample em- ployment for those who are fond of angling. The country. here is extremely rugged and mountainous, and presents but little appearance of cultivation. . Travellers designing to visit these places, will find it the most convenient to take a carriage at Saratoga Springs, from which to Jessup's Falls is 14 miles, and to Hadley Falls 5 miles further. The route is over a good road, and, including a visit of two or three hours, may be easily performed (going and returning) in a day. 152 LAKE GEORGE. from 80 to 100 visitants. There are here, also, a post- office, a church, and a court house. The village is bor. dered on the east by a range of hills, to the highest of which, called Prospect Hill, a road has been made, and though difficult of ascent, the pedestrian is richly com- pensated in the diversified and extensive prospect afford. ed him from its summit. LAKE GEORGE Is situated but a short day's ride from the village of Saratoga Springs, (27 miles,) from whence an excursion to the Lake is considered as a matter of course. At the village of Caldwell it is about a mile wide, but it general- ly varies from three fourths of a mile to four miles. The waters are discharged into Lake Champlain, at Ticonde. roga, by an outlet which, in the distance of 2 miles, falls. 180 feet. Lake George is remarkable for the transparency of its. waters. They are generally very deep, but at an ordi- nary depth the clean gravelly bottom is distinctly visible. The great variety of excellent fish which are caught here renders it a favorite resort for those who are fond of ang- ling. The lake is interspersed with a large number of small islands, the principal of which, Diamond Island, once containing a military fortification, and Tea Island, on which is a summer house erected for the amusement of parties of pleasure, are visible from the head of the lake. The whole number of islands is said to equal the number of days in a year. The scenery on the borders of the lake is generally mountainous. With the exception of some intervals, LAKE GEORGE. 153 chequered with fruitful cultivation, the land recedes from the shores with a gentle acclivity, for a few rods, and then, with a bolder ascent, to an elevation of from 500 to 1500 feet. The best view of the lake and its environs is had from the southern extremity, near the remains of old Fort George,* from whence the prospect embraces the village of Caldwell and the numerous little islands rising from the waters, which are beautifully contrasted with the parallel ridges of craggy mountains, through an ex- tent of nearly 14 miles. Near the southern shore are the ruins of an old fortification, called Fort William Henry. Vestiges of the walls and out-works are still to be seen. Previous to its construc- tion, the site of the fort was occupied by the English army under the command of Sir William Johnson, who was making preparations for an attack upon Crown Point. Before any movement, however, was made by him, the French army, under the command of Baron Dieskau, marched from Ticonderoga for Fort Edward, but after- wards changing his purpose, he was proceeding to the head of the lake, when he unexpectedly fell in with a party of the English, who had been detached by Sir William for the relief of Fort Edward. A severe battle ensued, in which the English were defeated, and com. pelled hastily to retire from the field. They were pursu. ed into their intrenchments by the French army, who commenced a furious asssault upon the English camp, * A very good prospect is also obtained from the top of the Lake George House ; but one far better from Pros- pect Hill, previously mentioned. 154 LAKE GEORGE. but were repulsed with great slaughter. The discomfited Baron, on his retreat from this unsuccessful attack, was a third time engaged by a party of English, who had been despatched by the garrison at Fort Edward, to succor Sir William, and totally defeated. These three several engagements took place on the same day, the 6th September, 1755, in the vicinity of Bloody Pond, into which the bodies of the slain were afterwards thrown. In 1757 Fort William Henry contained a garrison of 3000 men, under the command of Col. Munroe. The Marquis de Montcalm, after three attempts to besiege the fort, reinforced his army to about 10,000 men, and summoned Col. Munroe to surrender. This summons being refused, Montcalm, after a furious assault, obliged the English to capitulate. The terms of the capitulation, though hon. orable to the English, were shamefully violated by the Indians attached to the French army, who massacred the whole garrison, except a small remnant who made their escape to Fort Edward. The fort was razed to the ground by Montcalm, and was never afterwards rebuilt. This spot was the scene of embarkation of Gen. Aber- crombie, who, in 1758, descended the lake with an army of 15,000 men, for an attack on Ticonderoga. About 80 rods farther south, on a commanding emi. nence, are situated the vestiges of old Fort GEORGE. This fort, though not distinguished by any event of im- portance, yet, in connection with the history of Lake George, imparts an interest which a stranger will readily embrace in a visit to its mouldering ruins. A part of the walls, which were originally built of stone, are still visi. ble, from 30 to 40 feet in height. It was the depot for LAKE GEORGE. . 155 the stores of Gen. Burgoyne, for some time during the revolutionary war. A steamboat usually performs a daily trip on Lake George, so as to intersect the boats running to Lake Champlain ; leaving Caldwell in the morning, and return. ing at evening. The length of the lake, on which the boat runs, is 36 miles. From the steamboat landing to Ticonderoga is a distance of 3 miles ; for which a con. veyance is readily obtained. Refreshments are provided at a tavern half a mile from the landing, after which par- ties usually proceed to the fort, and return to the tavern the same evening, from whence they may take the boat on its return the next day to Caldwell. In proceeding down the lake from Caldwell, TWELVE MILE ISLAND is reached in going that distance. It is of a circular form, containing about 20 acres, situated in the centre of the lake, and is elevated 30 or 40 feet above the water. From thence one mile, on the northwest side of the lake, is TONGUE MOUNTAIN, with West Bay on its west side, a mile and a half wide, and extending in a northerly direction 6 miles. What are called the Narrows com- mence here, and continue for 6 or 7 miles, being three fourths of a mile wide, and very deep. A line 500 feet long has been used in sounding, without reaching bottom. Black MOUNTAIN, 18 miles from the head of the lake, is situated on the east side, and has been ascertained, by admeasurement, to be 2200 feet in height. Opposite to Black Mountain, near the western shore, is HALF WAY ISLAND. A short distance north of this is some of the finest mountain scenery on the continent. N2 156 LAKE GEORGE. The mountains, exhibiting an undulating appearance, are thickly studded with pines and firs, and interspersed with deep and almost impenetrable caverns. Sabbath Day Point, 24 miles from Caldwell, is a pro- jection of the main land into the lake from the west side. It is a place on which the English troops landed on the Sabbath during the French war, and is the spot on which a sanguinary battle was fought with the Indians. The English, with no chance of retreat, were all killed. From thence, 3 miles, is a small island called the Scotch Bon. NET. Three miles farther, on the western shore of the lake, is a little hamlet called by the inhabitants the City of Hague, containing only two or three dwellings, and as many saw mills. The lake is here 4 miles wide, being its greatest width. From this place to ROGERS' SLIDE, is 3 miles. This is celebrated as the spot where Col. Rogers escaped from the Indians during the French war. The descent is an angle of about 25 degrees, over a tolerably smooth rock, 200 feet in height. The Colonel, who had been a great foe to the Indians, was nearly surrounded by them on the top of the moun- tain, and found no other means of escape than to slide down this precipice. It being winter, and having snow shoes on his feet, he landed safely on the ice. The In- dians afterwards saw him ; but supposing that no human being could have made the descent, and that he must of course be supernatural, they concluded it not only useless but dangerous to follow him. ANTHONY'S Nose, so called from its singular shape, is a high rock, nearly opposite to Rogers' Slide. The shores LAKE GEORGE. 157 here are bold and contracted, and exhibit massive rocks, which are from 50 to 100 feet in height. From thence to PRISONER'S ISLAND, is 2 miles, a spot where prisoners were confined during the French war; and directly west of this is LORD Howe's POINT, so called from being the place where Lord Howe landed immediately previous to the battle in which he was killed at Ticonderoga. He was a brother of Lord Howe, who commanded the Brit. ish forces at Philadelphia, during the revolutionary war. The water here, from a deep green, assumes a light color, owing to a clayey bottom. From thence to the outlet of the lake, which terminates the steamboat passage, is one mile. Three miles farther, over a circuitous and uneven road, in an easterly direction, is the fort and ruins of TICONDEROGA. The point projects between the lake on one side, which here suddenly expands to the west, and the creek on the other side, which unites the waters of lakes George and Champlain. On the opposite side of the latter lake, in a south-east direction, stands Mount Independence. Mount Defiance, 720 feet in height, is situated across the creek directly west of the Fort. This height was occupied by the artillery of Gen. Burgoyne in 1777, when the Americans were compelled to evacuate Ticonderoga. The fortress of Ticonderoga was first con- structed by the French in 1756. The works, which appear to have been very strong, are elevated about 200 feet above the level of Lake Champlain, and many of the walls are still standing. The magazine is nearly entire. It is 35 feet long, 15 feet wide, and 8 feet high, constructed un. der ground, of stone, and arched. A subterraneous pas- Sage leads from the southwest corner of the works to the 158 TICONDEROGA. lake, 20 or 30 rods in length. Through this passage Col. Ethan Allen passed when he took possession of the fort “ in the name of the Great Jehovah and the Continental Congress.” The remains of another fortification, built during the revolutionary war, are still to be seen about 60 rods farther south on the point adjoining the lake. The walls next to the lake are nearly 60 feet high. In 1758 Ticonderoga was attacked by General Aber. crombie, who was repulsed with the loss of 2000 men. On the approach of Gen. Amherst, in 1759, it was quietly abandoned by the French, as was also Crown Point. It continued in possession of the British until the year 1775, when it was taken by Col. Allen. On evacuating the fort in 1777, Gen. St. Clair ordered a detachment to accompany the American stores and baggage to White- hall, where they were pursued by Gen. Burgoyne, and from thence to Fort Ann. At the latter place a smart skirmish ensued between the two parties, in which the British sustained a considerable loss. The main army re- tired from Ticonderoga to Hubbardton, Vt. where a party, consisting of about 1000 under Col. Warner, were over- taken by the British advanced guard, and after a severe action abandoned the field to superior numbers. From thence they joined Gen. Schuyler at Fort Edward on the 12th July, 1777. From Ticonderoga, travellers designing a tour to Mon- treal and Quebec, may take passage in a Champlain steam boat, for St. Johns. The boat arrives towards evening, and the passage from thence to Plattsburgh, with the exception of about 15 miles to Crown Point, is generally in the night. At present the most usual arrangements of EXCURSION TO THE WEST. 159 the tourist are, after visiting Lake George and Ticonde- roga, to return to the Springs, and from thence proceed by rail road to Syracuse or Auburn, and take a passage by canal or stage for Niagara. EXCURSION TO THE WEST. Travellers who design to visit Niagara and return with- out proceeding down Lake Ontario to Montreal, will find an excursion the most pleasant and diversified by taking the rail roads as far as they are perfected; and stages in going and canal boats in returning, on the intermediate parts of the route. The stage route affords a better pros- pect of the populous parts of the country; but is general- ly so far from the canal, that no opportunity is given of witnessing many of the thriving villages on its banks. It is therefore advisable so to arrange a tour that the most interesting parts of both routes may be seen in going and returning. To effect this, a rail road passage can be taken at Saratoga Springs for Auburn, 179 miles; from whence the stage route through Geneva, Canandaigua and Batavia to Buffalo, 128 miles from Auburn, will be continuous, unless Rochester shall be visited in the excur- sion-in which case, the Tonawanda rail road, from that place to Batavia, 32 miles distant, can be taken, and the stage route pursued to Buffalo, 40 miles farther. In re- turning the tourist can take the rail road from Buffalo via Niagara Falls to Lockport, 42 miles; a canal packet from thence, via Rochester and Palmyra, to Syracuse, 162 miles, and a rail road from thence to Saratoga Springs or Albany. SARATOGA SPRINGS TO BUFFALO. 161 FROM SARATOGA SPRINGS TO BUFFALO, 307 miles-Rail road and stage route.] Miles. 1 Miles. By rail road. Seneca Falls...... 4 191 Ballston Spa,..... Waterloo,........ 4 195 Schenectady,..... 15 22 Geneva,...... 7 202 Amsterdam,...... 16 Canandaigua,..... 16 218 Fonda,......... 48 | East Bloomfield,.. 9 227 Palatine Bridge,.. 59 | West Bloomfield,. 5 232 Fort Plain,........ 62 | Lima,........ 4 236 St. Johnsville,.... 69 | East Avon,...... 5 241 Little Falls,...... 79 | Avon Post Office, 2 243 Herkimer,......... 86 Caledonia, ....... 8 251 Utica,........... 14 100 | Leroy, ......... 6 257 Whitesboru', ..... 4 104 | Batavia,......... 10 267 Oriskany,........ 3 107 Pembroke,..... 14 281 Rome,........... 8 115 | Clarence,...... 8 289 Syracuse,........ 38 153 | Williamsville,.. 8 297 Auburn,......... 26 179 | Buffalo, .......... 10 307 By stage. Cayuga, ......... 8 187 CO WA Avonwood A passage by rail road between Saratoga Springs and Auburn can be effected twice a day; though the morn- ing train is decidedly preferable, as it is mostly by day. light. The time in passing over the respective roads is from 12 to 14 hours-fare $7,50. The Saratoga and Schenectady rail road was noticed at p. 121. The UTICA AND SCHENECTADY RAIL ROAD commences in State street in Schenectady, and crossing the Mohawk river on a permanent bridge 800 feet long, continues in a northerly direction in conjunction with the Saratoga road for about a mile, when it curves to the west and pursues 162 UTICA AND SCHENECTADY RAIL ROAD. the direction of the Mohawk valley, which it reaches in about 8 miles. From thence it continues along the northern bank, and generally in view of the river, till within 3 or 4 miles of Utica, when it re-crosses the river, and the southern bank is pursued to Utica. The country is remarkably level, and generally favorable for a rail road—the acclivities, with a solitary exception, not ex- ceeding 15 or 16 feet per mile. At Tripe Hill, about 20 miles from Schenectady, there is an excavation of some magnitude through solid rock; after passing which, the valley spreads out and affords a route of several miles through some of the finest meadows in the state. At the Nose, 12 miles farther, the passage becomes con- tracted by bold and lofty mountains, affording, for some distance, a scanty width for the rail road, turnpike, river and canal, the latter of which is on the southern side of the Mohawk. After passing Palatine, Canajoharie and Fort Plain, embraced within a distance of 12 or 14 miles, the valley again widens, affording a charming view of hill and dale, until reaching the mountain scenery near Little Falls. This is by far the most interesting part of the route. Within two miles of the village, the passage of the river is confined within very narrow limits between two lofty and precipitous mountains. To find room for the canal, it became necessary to excavate and remove immense masses of rock, and even to form an aqueduct for a portion of it in the river. Similar labor was requi. site on the opposite side, in finding a passage for the rail road. For a considerable distance, the carriages run very near a rocky barrier of great height, not dissimilar in ap- pearance to the Palisadoes between the Highlands and AMSTERDAM. 163 New-York. Passing this, the carriages soon cross what is called “the Gulf,” succeeding which, are alternate rocky excavations and embankments of great magnitude, until the road passes beyond the precincts of the village. Seven miles farther, after crossing the West Canada creek, the road enters upon what are called the German Flats, which for richness and beauty are not surpassed by any lands on the continent. Beyond these, the country is less interesting until reaching within 3 or 4 miles of Utica; when the finely cultivated farms indicate their contiguity to a populous and flourishing town. The approach to Utica is peculiarly fine,-a full view of the city being had for some distance previous to entering it, together with the depot of the company, and its build. ings, which are spacious and handsome. The whole route, indeed, possesses much interest, exhibiting a scenery unusually rich and diversified. The cost of the road, including fixtures, engines, &c. was $1,900,000. SCHENECTADY. (See p. 120.) AMSTERDAM, 16 miles west of Schenectady, is the first village of any magnitude that is reached on the route. It is located on the north side of the Mohawk river, over which there is a substantial bridge. The village contains about 150 houses, and has become a place of considerable importance from its proximity to the river and the Erie canal, but more especially so from the creek which passes through the village, and which, within half a mile, falls over a number of beautiful cascades, affording admirable facilities for manufacturing operations. 164 RAIL ROAD AND STAGE ROUTE. About one mile from Amsterdam, on the south side of the rail road, is a stone building, erected by Col. Guy Johnson, son-in-law of Sir William Johnson, which was occupied by the former previous to the revolution; and a mile farther, on the opposite side of the road, is a stone building which was occupied by Sir John, the son of Sir William. Three miles farther, the road passes around the base of Tripe Hill, affording a fine prospect of the country on the opposite side of the river, embracing the broad and beautiful valley of the Mohawk, the outlet of the Scho. harie creek, the dam and bridge across the same, and the Erie canal; thence to Caughnawaga, an old and un- important village, is four and a half miles, and to the village of Fonda, the capital of Montgomery county, half a mile farther. It contains a landsome court house, a first rate public house and several other buildings.* * JOHNSTOWN, celebrated as the former residence of Sir William Johnson, is four miles north of this place, and is the capital of Fulton county. The court house and jail were built by Sir William. The Episcopal church, also built by him, and beneath which his remains were interred, was accidentally destroyed by fire in the autumn of 1836. The house, or what is called the “ Hall,” formerly occupied by him, is about a mile from the village. Attached to it is a building which was used by him as a fort; into which he had occasion, at times, to retreat from the assaults of the Indians. The marks of tomahawks are still visible on the stair-case in the main building. The battle of Johnstown, October, 1781, in which the British and Indians were defeated, was fought on the “Hall” farm. The American troops, consisting of be. tween 4 and 500, were commanded by Col. Willet, FORT PLAIX. 165 The Nose, a rocky point originally jutting into the riv. er, and which was deformed to make room for the rail road, is six miles farther; from whence to Palatine Bridge is 5 miles. A bridge here crosses the Mohawk river to the village of CANAJOHARIE, from whence a rail road to Catskill, noticed at page 111, has been commenced. Fort Plain, a flourishing little village, is 3 miles west of Palatine Bridge, on the opposite side of the river. A fort, from which the place derives its name, was con- structed here during the revolutionary war; though but little of its remains are now to be seen. The place was originally settled by Germans, who suffered severely from the early Indian wars of this country. During the revo. lution, those who had taken refuge in the fort, were sur. prised by Capt. Butler, on his return from burning Cherry Valley, and became a prey to similar atrocities. The East CANADA CREEK is passed by a substantial bridge, in going 4 miles farther ; * from which to Little Falls is 6 miles. This place takes its name from a cataract in the vicinity, which, in size, is much in. who died a few years since at New-York. After the defeat, the enemy were pursued by him to the Canada creck, where several were killed, including Maj. Butler. Out of 607 of the hostile force sent on this expedition, but 220 returned to Canada. * About 3 miles west of the East Canada creek, on the south side of the Mohawk river and canal, a brick house is seen, standing on elevated ground, which was the for. mer residence of Gen. Herkimer. He received a wound in a skirmish in 1777, (See p. 175) of which he died at his residence. His remains repose in an adjoining field. 166 RAIL ROAD AND STAGE ROUTE. ferior to the celebrated Cohoes, (notieed at p. 131,) and has, therefore, been denominated the Little Falls of the Mohawk. A continuation of the chain of the Catsbergs crosses the river at this place, and forms a rough bed for the waters of the cataract, which pour over the rocky fragments in the wildest confusion. Approaching from the cast, a loftly ridge of mountains, frowning in grand- eur on either side, conceals the course of the river and the falls, whose vicinity is announced only by the distant din and foam of its waters. For a considerable distance, a narrow pass only is allowed for the road, river, and ca. • nal, with immense natural battlements of rock on either side, affording a sublime and interesting spectacle. About half a mile from the village the rail road curves to the left, presenting a view of the falls tumbling with irre- sistible violence over a gradual rocky descent of about eighty rods. At the termination of the ascent is situated the village, containing about 200 houses and 1800 inhab- itants. A cluster of buildings, rising between the rushing waters of the Mohawk on the one hand, and the rugged cliffs and eminences on the other; the smooth current of the stream above gently gliding to the tumultuous scene below and beyond the distant vale of the Mohawk, diver. sified with fields, orchards, meadows, and farm houses, all contribute to set off the romantic appearance for which this place is so justly celebrated. This village derives most of its importance from the facilities for trade and commerce afforded by means of the Mohawk river and the Erie canal. Boats were formerly transported around the falls through a canal on the north side of the river. This old canal is now connected with the Erie canal on LITTLE FALLS. 167 the south side of the river by means of an aqueduct 184 feet long. The descent of the Erie canal here, in the distance of one mile, is 40 feet, which is passed by five locks. The Aqueduct across the river is one of the finest spe. cimens of masonry on the whole line of the canal, though less stupendous than the locks at Lockport, and, in ex. tent, falling considerably short of the aqueduct at Roches. ter. The river is passed on three beautiſul arches of from 40 to 50 feet in height, with flagging on either side of the canal, and a strong iron railing. The Erie canal, which is on the south side of the river, winds its way for some distance along the side of a bold and lofty mountain, the channel resting on a wall nearly 30 feet high, constructed from the bed of the river at great expense. The view afforded of mountain scenery on either side, with a bare passage for the dashing waters of the Mohawk between, is highly interesting and sublime. Whichever way the eye is turned, it rests on huge masses of granite and limestone, piled in heaps. These rocks in some places rise to a great height, almost perpendicular, presenting a bleak dark surface, unbleached by the thou. sand storms which have beat upon them; others present a rugged and uneven face, crowned and overhung by dark evergreens, dipping their verdure into the foaming torrent below; the fissures between others of these huge piles produce hickory, maple and other trees, which hang from them, and with their sombre shadow deepen the gloomy darkness of the rocks from which they spring; whilst the scanty soil upon others gives life and penurious nourish. ment to dwarf oaks and vegetation peculiar to similar in. 02 168 RAIL ROAD AND STAGE ROUTE. hospitable regions. In this scene, where the rude but magnificent works of nature are so profusely displayed, the imagination is overpowered, in their sublimity, and the proudest works of man, and man himself, lose their importance. The road, after leaving Little Falls, follows the bank of the river, in full view of the rich alluvial vale called the Herkimer and German Flats. This region, now glowing in all the beauty of successful cultivation, was once the theatre of the most sanguinary warfare. During the French and revolutionary wars, it was the scene of many barbarous incursions of the whites as well as savages. It was invaded by the French after the capture of Fort Os. wego in 1756, and in 1757 the settlements were desolated by fire and sword. In the centre of these flats is situa. ted the village of HERKIMER, 7 miles from Little Falls. West Canada creek, on which are the celebrated Trenton Falls, noticed in subsequent pages, enters the Mohawk river about half a mile east of the village, and is passed near its mouth by a well constructed bridge. The village is principally built on two parallel streets. It contains a handsome court house and jail, about 130 dwelling houses, and 1000 in. habitants. Between Herkimer and Utica, on the south side of the river, is the village of Frankfort, about 5 miles from the former and 9 from the latter place. The country after leaving Herkimer is quite level, and remark. ably fertile, though not in a high state of cultivation. UTICA. 169 UTICA. This flourishing place is on the south bank of the Mo. hawk river, and occupies the site of old Fort Schuyler, where a garrison was kept previous to the revolution. A few Germans were settled here before that period; but a part were captured by the Indians and the remnant sought a place of more security. The first permanent settler established himself about 4 miles west of Fort Schuyler in 1784. Five years afterwards a few families established themselves on the site of the present town. In 1798, a village charter was granted, and in 1832, the place was incorporated into a city, and contains at the present time about 10,000 inhabitants. It is regularly laid out, the streets of good width, and mostly paved. Genesee street, in particular, is peculiarly pleas. ant, and for the most part adorned with elegant stores and dwellings. There are numerous literary, benevolent and religious institutions in this place; among which are 16 churches, a lyceum, an academy, a high school, Female Institute, museum, and an institution called the Young Men's As. sociation, in which there is a library and reading room, which are gratuitously opened for the use of strangers. There are also 3 banks, an insurance company, and from 6 to 8 newspaper establishments. The principal Hotels, which are in Genesee street, are Bagg's, near the termination of the rail road ; the Na. tional Hotel, and the Canal Coffee House, near the canal; and the City Hotel and Franklin House, farther south. 170 TRENTON FALLS. The lands adjoining Utica are richly cultivated, pre- senting a succession of beautiful farms and country seats. There are also various objects of attraction in the vicinity, a visit to which may be ranked among the pleasures of an excursion to the west. Of these are Trenton Falls, at the north ; the York Mills, and Clinton Village contain. ing Hamilton College, all within a few miles in a westerly direction. TRENTON Falls are 15 miles from the city, and a visit thither generally occupies a day. They are on the West Canada creek, about 22 miles from its confluence with the Mohawk river at Herkimer. The creek, in its way from the summit of the highlands of Black river to its lower valley, crosses a ridge of lime- stone 4 or 5 miles in breadth, stretching through the coun. try from the Mohawk to the St. Lawrence. Its course over this ridge by its tortous bed is 6 or 7 miles, 2 1-2 of which are above the falls. The waters, soon after reach. ing the limestone, move with accelerated strides over the naked rocks to the head of the upper fall, where they are precipitated 18 or 20 feet down an abrupt ledge into a spacious basin. The whole descent to the head of this fall in the last two miles is computed at 60 feet. Here a deep and winding ravine begins, which extends down the stream more than 2 miles. Its average depth is estima. ted at 100 feet, and its average breadth at the top 200. The sides and bottom consist of limestone disposed in horizontal layers, which abound with organic remains. The sides are shelving, perpendicular and overhanging ; and some of the trees that have taken root in the fissures of the rocks are pendant over the abyss, where they form TRENTON FALLS. 171 the most fanciful appearances imaginable. The country adjoining is mostly covered with forest trees, so that no appearance of the ravine is visible until its verge is reached. of the six falls, that above the high bridge on the Black river road is called the Upper ; the second, a mile below, the Cascades; the third, a little lower down, the Mill. dam ; the fourth, 40 rods farther, the High Falls ; the fifth, about 70 rods farther, Sherman's; and the sixth, at the termination of the ravine, Conrad's. All these are formed by solid reefs of rocks which cross the bed of the stream. The water at the Upper Fall descends 18 or 20 feet perpendicularly. Below, there is a spacious basin, out of which the stream issues in a diminished bed into the ra. vine, the entrance of which is between lofty barriers of rocks. This fall, when viewed from the bridge, or from the high ground west of the creek, has a fine appearance, At the Cascades, consisting of 2 pitches, with inter. vening rapids, the water falls 18 feet. The bed of the stream is here contracted, and the sides serrated, the banks of the ravine rising with abruptness almost directly in the rear. The Mill-dam Fall, which is the second within the ra. vine, has an abrupt descent of 14 feet, the stream being about 60 yards broad at the break. Of the High Falls, which are 3 in number, the first has a perpendicular descent of 48 feet; in foods the water covers the whole break and descends in one sheet ; but at other times, mostly in two grooves at the west side of the fall. The second has a descent of about 11 feet; the third 37 feet; and the three, including the slopes and 172 TRENTON FALLS. pitches, 109 feet. In freshets and floods, the entire bed at the High Falls is covered with water of a milk white color, and the spray which at such times ascends in pillars towards the sky, when acted upon by the rays of the sun, exhibit the rainbow in all its brilliant colors. Sherman's Fall descends about 33 feet when the stream is low, and 37 when high. In droughts, the water pitches down at the west side. The last fall, which is at Conrad's mills, at the foot of the ravine, is 6 feet. Besides the falls, there are several raceways or chutes, from 10 to 20 rods long, through which the waters pass with great rapidity. The whole depression of the stream from the top of the Upper Fall above the high bridge to the foot of Conrad's, is 312 feet; and if we add the de. scent above the Upper Fall, which is computed to be 60 ſeet, and that below Conrad's fall in half a mile, which is estimated at 15 feet, we shall find that the entire depres. sion in less than 5 miles, is 387 feet. The falls, raceways and rapids, and indeed the whole bed within the ravine, exhibit very different appearances at different times. These are occasioned by the eleva. tions and depressions of the stream. In floods, the whole is one tremendous rapid, with four cataracts and several chutes. The best time to visit these falls is when the stream is low, because then there is no inconvenience or difficulty in ascending the ravine from the foot of Sherman's stair. way to the head of the upper raceway. The lofty rocky barriers, which constitute the sides of this ravine, advance to the water's edge in many places, and could not be 174 RAIL ROAD AND STAGE ROUTE. spot, and that the rocks in which they are entombed are of posterior formation. Ladies visiting the Falls, should be furnished with calfskin shoes or bootees. They not only owe it to their health to be thus provided, but the best pair of cloth shoes will be ruined by a single excursion over these rocks. Returning to Utica, the traveller, in pursuing a journey to the west, takes the UTICA AND SYRACUSE RAIL ROAD, which is located in the vicinity of the canal, and for a great part of the route over a low, marshy, unsettled and uninteresting country. The road is 53 miles long, and for a considerable distance the rails rest on piles—the only means of obtaining a foun. dation. Near its western extremity is a deep excavation, rendered necessary in obtaining a passage beneath the canal. WHITESBOROUGH, 4 miles west of Utica, is a handsome village, located on a rich and fertile plain. The principal street, containing several handsome dwellings, with large court-yards and gardens, is a short distance from, and runs parallel with the rail road. It may be considered, indeed, as better adapted for a country residence than a place of business. Oriskany, 3 miles from Whitesborough, is a flourishing village of about 100 houses. It is situated on the Oris- kany creek, which enters the canal as a feeder. The Oriskany Manufacturing Company have a woollen factory here, which is the most extensive of the kind in the state. Rome, 8 miles farther. This is a half shire town of the county of Oneida, and is situated on the north side of the ROME. 175 old canal connecting Wood creek with the Mohawk river, and about half a mile north of the Erie canal.* It con. tains a bank, court house, jail, and about 300 dwelling. houses, principally located on one street, running east and west. The ruins of Fort Stanwit, near the village ben tween Wood creek and the Mohawk, are still visible. This fort was erected in 1758 by the British, and was afterwards rebuilt by the Americans during the revolution. 15 or 1800 men, including Indians, were sent from Mon. treal by Burgoyne, in 1777, to besiege the fort. They were commanded by the Baron St. Leger. Gen. Herkimer, commandant (soe p. 165,) of the militia of Tryon county, (ernbracing the present counties of Montgomery, Fulton and Herkimer,) was sent against them with about 800 men. On meeting the detachment of Leger's forces, the militia mostly fled on the first fire. A few, however, remained and fought by the side of Gen. H., who was mortally wounded in the road between Whitestown and Rome. The Americans lost 160 killed and 240 wounded. The fort, which was commanded by Col. Gansevoort, was af- terwards assaulted by Leger's army; but they were driv. en off by a sortie, directed by Col. Willet, and their camp plundered. Subsequently the fort was summoned to sur.. render; but through a stratagem of Gen. Arnold, who: sent two emissaries from the camp at Saratoga, to inform Leger of the approach of a powerful American army for the relief of the besieged, he ordered a precipitate retreat to the Oneida lake, leaving all his baggage behind. * In the improvement of the canal, it is to pass through the village. 276 RAIL ROAD AND STAGE ROUTE. An arsenal belonging to the United States is situate half a mile west of the village. SYRACUSE, the capital of Onondaga county, 38 miles from Rome, is built on both sides of the Eriu canal, and con tains about 800 dwellings and stores, several handsome churches, 2 banks, a court house and jail. The village, which exhibits much enterprise, owes its importance principally to the salt produced in its neighborhood, the whole adjacent country being impregnated with it, and springs from which immense quantities are manufactured rising in various directions. A little west of Syracuse, a plain of 400 acres is ncarly covered with vats for the manufacture of salt by solar evaporation. The water is brought in logs from the great spring at Salina, one mile distant, which supplies, with very little attention, the va. rious ranges of vats. A light roof is constructed to each vat, which can be shoved off or on at pleasure, to permit the rays of the sun to act upon the water, or to prevent the dampness of the atmosphere from commingling there. with. The salt is taken out of these vats twice or three times during the warm season, and removed to store houses ; thence it is conveyed in barrels to the canal for transportation. The Onondaga creck, affording valuable water power, runs through the village, over which the canal is carried in a stone aqueduct of 4 arches. Salina is a mile and a half north of Syracuse, and though not on the usually travelled route to the west, should be visited for the purpose of examining the princi. pal spring, and the various salt establishments connected therewith. GALIN, 171 The spring at Salina was first discovered by the Indians many years since, by being the resort of deer and other animals. The first white settlers were in the habit of boiling the water in small vessels for domestic purposes. Since then the spring has been excavated to a very con- siderable depth, and affords the strongest saline water yet discovered in the world, 40 gallons yielding about a bushel of pure salt. The water is forced up to the top of an ad. joining hill by a powerful hydraulian, driven by the sur- plus waters of the Oswego canal, which passes through this place. The salt water is in this way conveyed 85 feet above the canal to a large reservoir, into which it is dis- charged at the rate of 300 gallons per minute. It is hence carried to the different factories in Salina and Syra. cuse. Of these there are within a circuit of seven miles, 175. The works and springs all belong to the state, to which imposts are payable, for the extinguishment of the canal debt. The water is conveyed from the reservoir to the different manufactories and evaporating fields, by means of wooden pipes. The salt is manufactured gene- rally by boiling and evaporation. There are, however, two establishments in which it is made in large wooden vats, by means of hot air passing through them in large metallic pipes. The springs are considered inexhaust. ible; and the amount of salt manufactured at Salina, Liv. erpool, Syracuse and Geddes, is between two and thrce millions of bushels per annum. Salina is a flourishing village, but of less magnitude than Syracuse; though, from the rapidly increasing growth of both, it is not improbable that they will in time become a continuous town. A fine view of the 178 RAIL ROAD AND STAGE ROUTE. Onondaga Lake, about a mile distant, is had from the place. It is six miles long and two broad. At its north- western extremity is seen the pleasant village of Liver. pool, at which the manufacture of salt is also carried on to considerable extent. The Oswego CANAL, from Syracuse to Lake Ontario at Oswege, is 38 miles long, including 20 miles of the Oswego river, on which are several locks and dams. [This is embraced in the “ Rail road, canal and steam- boat route to Buffalo,” referred to at p. 160, and more particularly described under its appropriate head in a sub- sequent part of this work.] Pursuing a journey still farther west, the AUBURN AND SYRACUSE RAIL Road is taken at the latter village. It commences at the depot of the Utica and Syracuse road, and passes through the village of Geddes, 2 miles distant, from which place to its termination at Auburn, 26 miles farther, the excavations and embankments are unusually heavy. At a point, ten or twelve miles from Syracuse, the route for three or four miles is around the side of a mountain of gypsum, from 50 to 60 feet above its base. AUBURN is situated on the Owasco creek, two miles be. low its outlet from the lake of the same name. The vil- lage, which is among the most flourishing in the state, owes much of its importance to the numerous mills and manufactories for which its location is extremely eligible. It contains about 850 kouses and 6000 inhabitants. Among other public buildings there are 7 churches, an academy, museum, 2 banks, a court house and gaol, and a prison erected for convicts at the expense of the AUBURN. 179 state. There has also been established a theological seminary, which is patronized exclusively by the Presby. terian denomination, and is at present the only one of the kind in the state. Many circumstances combine to ren- der this place an agreeable residence to the man of taste or business. The village is handsomely built, and pos- sesses much wealth and enterprize. It is situated 7 miles from Weed's Port, on the canal, to which place stages run daily, for the accommodation of passengers wishing to take packet boats for the west. PRINCIPAL HOTELS.—The Auburn House and Mer. chants' Exchange, the American Hotel, and the Western Exchange. The State Prison, at Auburn, is considered one of the best in the Union. It was commenced in 1816, and is constructed upon the plan of a hollow square, enclosed by a wall 2000 feet in extent, being 500 feet on each side. The front of the prison, including the keeper's dwelling, is about 300 feet, and the two wings extending west, are 240 feet each. The north wing contains solitary cells and a hospital, and the south wing is divided principally into cells. Between these is a grass plot with gravel walks ; to the west of which is the interior yard, sur. rounded with workshops, forming a continued range of 900 feet, protected by a massive stone wall. The prison being erected on the bank of the Owasco, water power is applied in many cases, to great advantage, in propelling machinery. The most interesting period for witnessing the prisoners is early in the morning, from the time they are brought forth to labor till after breakfast. The spectator will then P2 180 RAIL ROAD AND STAGE ROUTE. have an opportunity of seeing some of the prominent fea- tures of the order, regularity and system with which every thing is conducted. He will admire the precision with which the rules are executed, without the least con- fusion, noise, or even command. The convicts silently marching to and from their rest, meals and labor, at pre- cise times, moving in separate corps, in single file, with a slow lock step, ercct posture, keeping exact time, with their faces inclined towards their keepers, (that they may detect conversation, of which none is ever permitted,) all give to the spectator somewhat similar feelings to those excited by a military funeral; and to the convicts, impressions not entirely dissimilar to those of culprits when marching to the gallows. The same silence, so. lemnity and order, in a good degree, pervades every busi- ness and department. In addition to divine service in the chapel of the prison every Sabbath, a Sunday school has been established, superintended by the students of the theological seminary, 'which has been attended with very beneficial effects. So admirable has been the discipline of this prison, that a large proportion of the convicts discharged have be- come honest, industrious men, and none are known to have become corrupted or made worse. The AUBURN AND ROCHESTER Rail Road, which is in progress, is to commence at the terminating point of the Auburn and Syracuse road, and pass through the villages of Geneva and Canandaigua to Rochester, a distance of 80 miles. Until it is completed, however, the route will be by stage as heretofore. CAYUGA-SENECA FALLS. 181 CAYUGA, 7 miles west of Auburn, is a small village; but affords a beautiful prospect of the Cayuga lake, and the bridge extending across, which is one mile and eight rods long, and situate within 2 miles of the outlet. This lake is 38 miles in length, and is generally from 1 to 2 miles in breadth. The water is shallow, but of sufficient depth for a good sized steamboat, which plies daily be. tween the bridge and Ithaca, a beautiful and thriving vil. lage, at the head of the lake, 36 miles distant. Travel- lers designing to take an excursion on this lake to Ithaca, should pay for stage fare no farther than the Cayuga Bridge. From this point they can take the steamboat at 1 o'clock P. M. which reaches Ithaca in between three and four hours ; where the best of accommodations will be found at one of the largest public houses in the state. Passing the night at Ithaca, the daily stage can be taken the next morning, after breakfast, for Bath, at the head of the Seneca lake, distant about 22 miles, reaching the latter place in time for the steamboat which leaves at noon for Geneva, noticed in a subsequent in and thus the tour of both lakes be performed, an i a full view of their rich scenery had in the short space thirty hours. Seneca Falls, four miles west of Cayuga, is a flour- ishing village, loca -d on the banks of the Seneca river, which here falls 46 feet, affording important manufactur- ing facilities. The village has attained a very rapid growth within a few years. It contained in 1836, 450 dwelling houses, 5 churches, a number of flouring mills, and about 4000 inhabitants. In addition to its manufac- turing privileges, a canal extends to the Erie canal at Lakeport, 20 miles distan which, connected with the 182 RAIL ROAD AND STAGE ROUTE. river at the village, affords an uninterrupted water com. munication from Geneva to the western lakes and the ocean. Four miles farther, is the handsome village of Waterloo, a half shire town in Seneca county. It contains about 300 houses, a court house and jail. The village is principally situate on the northern bank of the Seneca outlet, which here propels several mills. The commencement of this village was in 1816; since which it has become a place of very considerable importance ; though it is probably destined to yield in magnitude and business to its rival village at Seneca Falls. From Wa. terloo to Geneva, 7 miles distant, the route is delightful, em. bracing (a part of the way) a charning ride around the north end of the Seneca lake, which is here about two miles wide. The village is one of the most elegant in the state ; and, with its beautiful scenery, cannot fail of call. ing forth the admiration of every visitant. It is located on the western margin of the lake, the bank of which be- ing lofty, affords an enchanting view of one of the purest sheets of water in America. The number of private and public buildings in the place is about 600, many of which are very handsome, and the population about 4000. Among the public buildings are a college, an academy, 8 churches and a bank. The college is located on an em. inence south of the village, on the margin of the lake, in the vicinity of several country seats, enjoying an unusual richness of prospect, with an almost constant breeze from the water. The lake is about 35 miles long, and from 3 to 4 miles wide. It abounds with salmon, trout and other fish, and is never closed with ice. A steamboat GENEVÄ LAKE. 1831 ruris daily from Geneva to Jeffersonviile, at the head of the lake, leaving the former place at 7 A. M., and re- turning at evening.* The Erie canal passes about 12: * A passage on the lake is peculiarly delightful and in- teresting. Leaving Geneva with its neat stores, and ele- gant dwellings, its luxuriant hanging gardens, and the glittering spires of its churches and college, the eye takes in a southern water view not surpassed in any part of this world of inland seas. The first village of any note on the eastern shore is Ovid, 18 miles from Geneva. The lofty eminence on which it stands, and the rich and highly cul. tivated farms in its vicinity, render it a most conspicuous and interesting object. Directly opposite to Ovid is Dresden, one of the most thriving villages in Yates coun. ty. It is situated on the outlet of Crooked Lake, and extends nearly a mile back of the shore. Immediately south of Dresden, is the farm of the late celebrated Je. mima Wilkinson, an enthusiast, who pretended that she was the Saviour of mankind. Until her death, which took place some years since, she had several followers; and this farm, which is very beautiful, has passed by will into the hands of one of them. Four miles south of Dresden is Long Point, remarkable for a tree at its ex- tremity, which, by a little aid from the imagination, puts on the semblance of an Elephant. Six miles south of Long Point is Rapelyea's ferry, near which is still stand. ing the frame which Jemima constructed to try the faith of her followers. Having approached within a few hun- dred yards of the lake shore, she alighted from an elegant carriage, and the road being strewed by her followers with white handkerchiefs, she walked to the platform, and having announced her intention of walking across the lake on the water, she stopped ankle deep into the clear element, when suddenly pausing, she addressed the multitude, inquiring whether or not they had faith that she could pass over: for if otherwise, she could not; and on receiving an affirmative answer, returned to her car. riage, declaring that as they believed in her power, it was unnecessary to display it. Six miles and a half south of 184 RAIL ROAD AND STAGE ROUTE. miles to the north of Geneva ; with which there is a water communication, by means of the outlet of the Seneca lake and a lateral canal. · CANANDAigua, 15 miles from Geneva. This village is situated near the outlet of the lake from which it takes its name, on a gentle ascent commanding a fine view of the lake at the distance of half a mile. The principal strect extends 2 miles in length, and is handsomely dec- orated with trees, through which appear the delicately painted dwellings and court yards. In an open square, in the centre of the village, is the court house, prison and clerk's office of the county, the town house and Eagle Hotel. There are also four churches, a superior male academy and female seminary, a bank, and about 500 dwellings. In the vicinity are a number of delightfu villas, surrounded with gardens and orchards, which, with the view of the lake stretching far to the south, form a rich and varied scenery seldom equalled in other Rapolyea's ferry, is Starkie's Point, where the shore is so bold that the steamboat passes within 10 feet of the ex- tremity of the Point. Four miles further on the west shore is the Big Stream Point, at which there is a mill seat with a fall of 136 feet. The land puts on a wilder aspect as the tourist approaches the head of the lake, and the eminences are more bectling and precipitous. The eastern shore also partakes more of the mountainous character, though cultivated far up the summit lands, and is here and there marked by ravines, through one of which “ Hector Falls” tumble from a height of one hun. dred and fifty feet, and carry several valuable mills. These falls are distant three miles from the village of Jeffersonville, at the head of the lake. WEST BLOOMFIELD—AVON SPRING. 185 places. The principal public houses in the village are Blossom's Hotel and Pitt's Eagle Tavern. From Canandaigua, stages can be taken for Rochester, (see " Rail Road and Canal Route,”) 28 miles distant, in a northwesterly direction, and the route continued thence by stage over the “Ridge Road,” to the Falls, or by canal to Lockport, and by rail road thence to the Falls; or the rail road from Rochester to Batavia, 32 miles long, can be taken, and stages from the latter place to Buffalo : but if a visit to Montreal, by the way of Lake Ontario, is not contemplated, it is generally deemed a better course to proceed directly to Buffalo and the Falls, and return by the way of Rochester. In pursuing the usual route from Canandaigua to Buffalo, East BLOOMFIELD is reached in travelling 9 miles, and West BLOOMFIELD in going 5 miles farther. They are considered among the richest agricultural townships in the state; presenting a succession of beautiful and highly cultivated farms. The fruit raised on these lands, par. ticularly apples and peaches, is not excelled in any section of the country. LIMA is 4 miles from West Bloomfield, and is a contin. uation of the same rich and fertile soil, divided into high- ly improved and productive farms. East Avon is 5, and Avon Post OFFICE 7 miles from Lima. The Genesee river passes through the town of Avon, and is navigable for boats to the Erie canal at Rochester, 20 miles distant. The Avon Spring is becoming a place of considerable resort for invalids. Its waters, which are strongly im.. 186 RAIL ROAD AND STAGE ROUTE. pregnated with sulphur and alum, are found beneficial in various diseases. CALEDONIA, 8 miles from Avon Post Office, is more particularly celebrated as the location of a large Spring, than for any thing else. The stage usually stops at this village long enough to enable passengers to visit this nat. ural curiosity, which is situate a few rods north of the principal street. Within a small area, sufficient water rises to propel a mill, (of which there are several on the stream below,) at all seasons of the year. The water is pure, and appears to rise from a rocky bottom. A stage zuns daily from this place to Rochester, which is 20 miles distant--a part of the route being along the bank of the Genesee river. Pursuing the direct route from Caledonia to Buffalo, the next place of importance is the pleasant and thriving village of LEROY, which is is 6 miles west of Caledonia, and 17 miles south of the Eric canal. Allen's creek, which passes through the village, affords important mill privi. leges, and contributes much to the value and business of the place. The village contains 300 dwellings, 2 large fouring mills, and several manufactories. At this place the creek has a fall of 18 feet; a mile farther, one of 27 feet; and about a mile farther, one of 80 feet. Before reaching the latter, however, the stream is much dimin. ished-suppyling, as is supposed, the Caledonia spring, already noticed. Numerous petrifactions have been found in the bed of the creek, about 200 yards north of the vil. lage bridge; among which are petrified turtles, weighing rom 10 to 300 pounds. They are composed principally BATAVIA. 187 of dark colored bituminous limestone, which is easily split, and often discovers crystalline veins, together with yellow clay or ochre. BATAVIA is 10 miles from Leroy. It is the capital of Genesee county; and assumes more the appearance of one of the early settled villages in New England, than the more flourishing villages of the west. It is situated on the north side of the Tonawanda creek, on an exten. sive plain, and has several handsome private mansions. Besides the court house and jail, it contains a bank, the Holland Company's land office, and about 300 dwel- lings. The Tonawanda rail road, leading from Rochester, terminates at this place. It was at this village that the celebrated William Mor. gan had his residence previous to his abduction, on the frivolous ground of having revealed the secrets of mason. ry. He was conveyed by a mob to Fort Niagara, at the mouth of the Niagara river, from whence no trace of him could afterwards be discovered. After leaving Batavia for Buffalo, the country soon as. sumes a less populous appearance; and the travelling is rendered unpleasant from the extensive causeways which intervene, consisting of logs placed transversely in the road. The intervening places between Batavia and Buffalo are Pembroke, 14 miles Clarence, 8—Williamsville, 8 from which to Buffalo, is 10 miles. [For a description of the latter place, see “ Rail Road, Canal and Steamboat Route."] 188 ERIE CANAL ERIE CANAL. A brief description of this work, before entering upon the route which embraces a portion of it, will probably prove acceptable to the tourist. Commencing at Albany, on the Hudson, the canal passes up the west bank of the river nearly to the mouth of the Mohawk; thence along the banks of the latter to Schenectady, crossing the river twice by aqueducts. From Schenectady it follows the south bank of the Mo. hawk until it reaches Rome. In some places it encroaches so near as to require embankments made up from the river to support it. An embankment of this description, at Amsterdam village, is 5 or 6 miles in extent. What is called the long level, being a distance of 69 1.2 miles without an intervening lock, commences in the town of Frankfort, about 8 miles east of Utica, and terminates three fourths of a mile east of Syracuse; thence the route proceeds 35 miles to Lake Port, situated on the east border of the Cayuga marshes, 3 miles in extent, over which to the great embankment, 72 feet in height, and near 2 miles in length, is a distance of 52 miles; thence 8 1-2 miles to the commencement of the Genesee level, extending westward to Lockport, nearly parallel with the ridge road, 65 miles. Seven miles from thence to Pen. dleton village the canal enters Tonawanda creek, which it follows 12 miles, and thence following the east side of the Niagara river, communicates with Lake Erie at Buf. falo. The whole line of the canal from Albany to Buffalo is 363 miles in length. It is 40 feet wide at the top, 28 ERIE CANAL. 189 at the bottom, and 4 feet deep.* The whole rise and fall of lockage is 688 feet, and the height of Lake Eric above the Hudson 568 feet. The principal aqueducts are, one crossing the Genesee river at Rochester, 804 feet long; one crossing the Mohawk at Little Falls, supported by 3 arches, the centre of 70 feet, and those on each side of 50 feet chord; and two crossing the Mohawk river near Al- exander's bridge, one of which is 748 feet and the other 1188 feet in length. To the main canal are a number of side cuts or lateral canals : one opposite Troy, connecting with the Hudson ; one at Utica to Binghampton (the Chenango canal) 97 miles long; one at Syracuse, a mile and a half long, to Salina ; one from Syracuse to Oswego, 38 miles long; one at Orville ; one at Chitteningo; one at Lake Port, extending to the Cayuga lake, 5 miles, and thence to the Seneca lake at Geneva, a distance of 15 miles; and one at Rochester, 2 miles long, which serves the double purpose of a navigable feeder and a mean of communication for boats between the canal and the Genesee river. The Chemung canal, extending from the head waters of the Seneca lake to the Chemung riv. er, 18 miles distant, with a navigable feeder of 13 miles, from Painted Post on the Chemung river to the summit level of the canal; and the Crooked lake canal, 7 miles * By recent acts of the legislature, the canal commis. sioners have been authorized to increase the dimensions of the canal to a width of 60 or 70 feet, and to a depth of 6 feet; and to double the locks; the cost of which will not be less than 12 or $15,000,000. A portion of the work is already commenced, especially on the eastern di. vision, together with a new aqueduct over the Genesee river at Rochester. 190 SARATOGA SPRINGS TO BUFFALO. long, connecting the Seneca and Crooked lakes, have al. so been constructed—thus extending the navigation, com. prehending the Seneca and Cayuga lakes, 146 miles. Camillus, ........ Peru, ........... FROM SARATOGA SPRINGS TO BUFFALO, By rail road and canal, 357 miles-Fare $15. Miles. Miles. By rail road. Fairport,......... 1 234 From Saratoga Spigs Fullam's basin,... 1 235 to Syracuse, (see Bushnel's basin,... 3 238 p. 161,)........ 153 Pittsford, ........ 3 241 By canal. Billinghast's basin, 4 245 Geddes,.......... 2 155 | Lock No. 3,...... 2 247 Belisle,.......... 4 159 | Rochester, ....... 4 251 Nine-mile creek,.. 1 160 | Brockwa y's,...... 10 261 1 161 Spencer's basin,... 2 263 Canton,............ 5 166 Adam's basin,.... 3 266 2 168 Coolcy's basin,.... 3 269 Jordan, 4 172 | Brockport,....... 2 271 Cold Spring,...... 1 173 Holley,........ 5 276 Weedsport,.... 5 178 Scio,............ 4 280 Centreport,....... 1 179 Albion,........ 6 286 Port Byron,...... 2 181 Gaines' basin,.... 2 289 Montezuma, Lake. Eagle harbor, .... 1 289 port,........ 6 187 | Long bridge,..... Lockpit, ......... 6 193 | Knowlesville,..... 2 293 Clyde, .... 5 198 Road culvert,..... 1 294 Lock Berlin,...... 5 203 | Medina.......... 3 297 Lyons, .......... 4 207 Shelby basin,..... 3 300 Lockville,........ 6 213 Middleport, ....... 3 303 Newark,......... 1 214 Reynolds' basin,.. 3 306 Port Gibson,..... 3 217 | Gasport,......... 2 308 Palmyra, ........ 5 222 Lockport,........ 7 315 Macedonville, .... * By rail road. Wayneport, (Bar. Niagara Falls,.... 20 335 rager's Basin,).. 3 229 Tonawanda creek,. 10 345 Perrinton, (Lindel's Black Rock....... 9 354 Bridge,)....... 2 231 Buffalo,.......... 3 357 Perrinton Centre, 2 233 2 291 225 GEDDES-PORT BYRON. 191 The route to Syracuse has been already described. (See pp. 161 to 178.) GEDDES, 2 miles by canal from Syracuse, is becoming a place of some importance, in consequence of the salt springs in its vicinity. They are mostly within a few rods of the canal, as well as numerous establishments for the manufacture of salt. A short distance west of the village, a fine prospect is had of the Onondaga lake and the villages of Liverpool and Salina. . NINE MILE CREEK, 6 miles from Geddes. It is a stream of some magnitude, and is crossed by the canal, over two arches. CAMILLUS, 1 mile. Canton, a small village, 5 miles. PERU, 2 miles. JORDAN, 4 miles. A short distance east of the village, the canal crosses the Jordan creek. WEED's Port, 6 miles. A thriving village of about 120 houses. A stage can be taken here daily for Auburn, 7 miles south. Centre Point, 1 mile. Port Byron, 2 miles. The canal here crosses the Owasco creek, a stream issuing from a lake of that name, two miles south of Auburn, The state prison is erected on the bank of this creek, the waters of which are used for propelling the machinery. Five miles farther are the Montezuma salt works, north of the canal, with a lateral cut leading thereto; one mile from which is the small village of R2 192 RAIL ROAD AND CANAL ROUTE. Lake Port. The western section of the canal (contra. distinguished from the middle and eastern sections) com. mences at this place. From Utica to Lake Port, the mean descent of the canal is 45 feet; and there are 9 locks, ascending and descending. From Lake Port to Lock- port the ascent is 185 feet, and the number of intervening locks 21. The waters of the canal at the former place are remarkably pure and crystalline in their appearance, not unfrequently exhibiting large quantities of fish at their bottom. One mile from Lake Port, the canal enters the Monte- zuma marshes, 3 miles in extent. They are formed by the outlets of the Cayuga and Seneca lakes, and exhibit a most dreary, desolate and stagnant appearance. The *water is generally from 4 to 8 feet deep, and the bottom covered with long grass, the usual growth of swamps, extending frequently to the surface. A long bridge is used for a tow-path over a part of these marshes. Shortly after leaving them, the canal crosses and unites with the outlet of the Canandaigua lake, a sluggish stream, which, with the outlets of Cayuga and Seneca, soon form the Seneca river, which enters and constitutes a considerable part of the Oswego river. Clyde, 11 miles from Lake Port, is a flourishing vil. lage, containing glass works. From thence to Lyons, a handsome village, containing a court house, jail, bank, and about 250 dwellings, is 9 miles ; and thence to LOCKVILLE 6 miles, to NEWARK 1 mile, and to Port GIB- son, 3 miles. PALMYRA, 8 miles farther, is a thriving village in Wayne county. It is built chiefly on a wide street, along the ROCHESTER. 193 south bank of the canal, and contains between 2 and 300 dwellings. Mud creek runs eastward about 40 rods north of the main street, and the canal passes between the creek and the street. There are several factories and mills on this creek. Palmyra and Port Gibson are landing places for goods designed for Canandaigua. Fair Port, 11 miles. Fullom's Basin, 12 miles. From this place to Roch- ester, by canal, is 16 miles ; while the distance by land is but 7 1-2. Travellers, accordingly, who have seen the Great Embankment over the Irondequoit creek, frequent- ly take a stage, to shorten the excursion ; but those who have never passed over this artificial work, should con- tinue on the canal route. The embankment is reached in about 4 miles from Fullom's Basin, and is continued for nearly two miles, at an average height of about 70 feet. The novelty of a passage at so great an elevation is much increased in the fine prospect afforded of the surrounding country. Two miles from the embankment is the hand. some village of PITTSFORD, containing about 100 houses and several stores; and 10 miles farther is the flourishing and impor. tant city of ROCHESTER.* It is situated on the east and west side of the Genesee river, which, at this place is 50 yards wide, and is crossed by two substantial bridges within the limits of the city. On the north side of the lower bridge, the local distinc. * For a description of Rochester and the surrounding country, the editor is principally indebted to LYMAN B. LANGWORTHY, Esq. of that place. 194 RAIL ROAD AND CANAL ROUTE. tions of East and West Rochester have been in a meas. ure annihilated, by the erection of the Market and Ex. change buildings over the Genesee, making the twain a continued town. Within its limits are two of the six falls on the river; the upper a small fall of 12 feet at the foot of the rapids, and immediately above the canal aqueduct; and the other, the great fall of 97 feet, about 80 rods below. From a po'nt of rock above the centre of these falls, at the foot of a small island, the celebrated Sam Patch made his last and fatal leap in the autumn of 1829. From a complete wilderness, Rochester has been re. deemed in the comparatively short period of about 28 years, the first settlement having been made in 1812. Its situation in the immediate vicinity of the canal, and only 7 miles from Lake Ontario, with a ship navigation within two miles of the town, and a rail road connected with the Erie canal at the east end of the aqueduct, enable its inhabitants to select a market either at New York, Que. bec, or on the borders of the great western lakes; and the many other natural advantages which it enjoys for trade and manufactures, destines it to become one of the most important places in the interior of the state. The population of Rochester in 1835, was 14,404; and its present population cannot be less than 18,000. The Erie canal strikes the river in the south part of the city, and after following the eastern bank for half a mile, crosses the river in the centre of the city, in an aqucduct 804 feet long, which cost $80,000.* The canal is supplied by a * The new aqueduct, now constructing, is to be com. posed of limestone from the Onondaga quarries, to be much increased in its dimensions, and to cost about $500,000. ROCHESTER 195 navigable feeder from the Genesee, which it enters with. in the limits of the city, and through which boats may enter and ascend the river from 70 to 90 miles.* The height of the canal at Rochester above the tide waters of the Hudson is 501 feet; above Lake Ontario, 270 feet; and below Lake Erie, 64 feet. Among the public buildings in the city, are a court house, 15 churches, 3 markets, 4 banks, (one of which is very splendid) and a museum, together with two valuable institutions, the Franklin Institute and Atheneum. There are also several extensive cotton and woollen manufacto. ries, together with various operations in iron and wood, suited to the wants of a great and growing country. The Globe Buildings, a majestic pile, rising from the watcr's edge, 5 stories, exclusive of attics, with between 130 and 140 apartments, suitable for workshops, and several stores, were destroyed by fire in the winter of 1834, and rebuilt the following year. The principal public houses are the Rochester House, Clinton House, Eagle Tavern, Man. sion House, Arcade House, Monroe House, and City Hotel. There are also two daily and several weekly newspapers. Within the limits of the city are more than 20 flouring mills, containing nearly 100 run of stones, capable of manufacturing more than 5000 barrels of flour, and con- suming more than 20,000 bushels of wheat every 24 * The Genessee Valley canal, now constructing, is to extend from Rochester to Olean Point on the Alleghany river, about 100 miles in a southerly direction; a con. siderable proportion of which will consist of slack water in the Genesee river, by means of locks and dams. 196 RAIL ROAD AND CANAL ROUTE. hours. Some of the mills are on a scale of magnitude perhaps not equalled in the world. One of them contains more than four acres of flooring, and all are considered unrivalled in the perfection of their machinery. Indeed, so powerful and complete is the whole flouring apparatus, that there are several single run of stones which grind, and the machinery connected therewith, bolt and pack 100 barrels of flour per day. The ARCADE is 100 feet in front, 135 feet in depth, and four stories high, exclusive of the attic and basement. It has 6 stores in front, with a large opening for a pas. sage to the Arcade, where the post office, Atheneum, Ar. cade House, and a variety of offices are located: From the centre arises an observatory in the form of a Chinese Pagoda, which overlooks the surrounding country; and in clear weather the lake can be seen like a strip of blue cloud in the horizon. The Tonawanda Rail Road, from Rochester to Ba. tavia, in a southwesterly direction, has already been no- ticed at pages 159 and 187. It is over a remarkably lev. el country, requiring but slight acclivities, and consists of a single track only, with occasional turn-outs. The time employed in going over the road, 32 miles in extent, is about two hours—fare $1,50. Stages leave Rochester daily for Niagara Falls, 81 miles distant, by way of Lewiston, passing over the ridge road ;* and the rail road and stage line can be taken twice a day for Buffalo, by way of Batavia, 72 miles. * The ridge road commences two and a half miles from Rochester, over which and the rail roads, the fol- 198 RAIL ROAD AND CANAL ROUTE. : means of an inclined plane—the descending weight being made to raise a lighter one by its superior gravity. A rail road from Rochester ends here, and is connected with the navigation of the Lake—the carriages both for passengers and for burthen passing up and down every half hour. The great western level on the canal commences two miles east of Rochester ; from which place to Lockport, a distance of 65 miles, there is no lock. BROCKWAYS's Basin is 10 miles from Rochester, thence to SPENCER's Basin, a small village, is 2 miles. Adam's Basin is 3 miles farther; thence to Cooley's Basin is 3 miles, and to BROCKPORT, 8 miles. This is a fine, thriving village, containing between 2 and 300 houses, and about 2500 in- habitants, 12 or 14 respectable stores, 3 churches, a semi- nary of learning, and all the other concomitants of a neat and industrious town. At this place are annually pur. chased from 4 to 500,000 bushels of wheat for the Ro. chester mills. HOLLEY, a beautiful and thriving little village, 5 miles. A short distance east of the village is the Holley Em. bankment and culvert, over Sandy creek, elevating the canal 87 feet above the level of the creek. Scio, 4 miles. Albion, 10 miles; a pleasant and improving village, with a bank, court house, jail, 230 dwellings, and about 2000 inhabitants. It has some mill privileges, and is sur. rounded by a fine agricultural country. Eight miles farther, in the town of Ridgeway, a public road passes MEDINA-LOCKPORT. 199 under the canal, through a handsome arch; one mile from which is the village of Medina, on the bank of Oak Orchard creek. It con. tains about 250 dwellings and 2000 inhabitants, who de. rive much advantage from the water privileges afforded by the creek, and from the rich and fertile country in the vicinity. The canal here crosses the creek over the largest arch on the whole route. There are circular steps leading to the bottom; whence is a foot path passing underneath and leading to the village. Passengers desi. rous of seeing this artificial work, should go ashore before reaching it, and gain time by a rapid walk. They can be received on board again at the village, where the boat stops to land and receive passengers. MIDDLEPORT, 6 miles. Gasport, 5 miles. It derives its name from in inflam- mable spring, which rises in the canal basin at the village. LOCKPORT, 7 miles. By far the most gigantic works on the whole line of the canal are at this place. After travelling between 60 and 70 miles on a perfect level, the traveller here strikes the foot of the “ Mountain Ridge,” which is surmounted by 5 magnificent locks of 12 feet each, connected with 5 more of equal dimensions for de- scending—so that while one boat is raised to an elevation of 60 feet, another is seen sinking into the broad basin below. The locks are of the finest workmanship, with stone steps in the centre and on either side, guarded with iron railings, for the safety and convenience of passengers. Added to this stupendous work, an excavation is contin- ued through the mountain ridge, composed of rock, a 200 LOCKPORT. distance of 3 miles, at an average depth of 20 feet, and under the enlarged plan is to be increased to a width of 60 or 70 feet. The village of Lockport is partly located on the moun- tain ridge, immediately above the locks, and partly below; and though“ founded on a rock,” surrounded with rocks, and with little or no soil, it has become a place of much importance. In 1821, there were but two houses in the place ; now there are 300, and upwards of 3000 inhabit- ants. The village also contains 7 churches, a bank, court house and jail, and several commodious public houses. The canal here being on the highest summit level, and supplied with water from Lake Erie, (distant 30 miles,) an abundance is obtained for hydraulic pur.. poses, affording to the village a lasting and permanent power for mills and manufactories of various kinds. A RAIL ROAD is here taken, which extends to Niagara Falls, 20 miles; and from thence to Buffalo, 22 miles farther. [These places are described in subsequent pages.] SARATOGA SPRINGS TO BUFFALO 201 5 16A FROM SARATOGA SPRINGS TO BUFFALO, By rail road, canal and steamboat, 369 miles—Fare $15. Miles. Miles. By rail road. Fulton,.......... 4 180 To Syracuse, as men. Braddock's Rapid, 4 184 tioned at p. 161,.. 153 | Tiffany's Landing, 4 188 By canal. High Dam,...... 1 189 From Syracuse to Oswego,.......... 2 191 Salina,......... 2 155 By steamboat. Liverpool, 3 158 Great Sodus Bay,. 28 219 Cold Spring,...... 3 161 | Genesee river,.... 35 254 New Bridge, ..... Fort Niagara,.... 74 328 Three Rivers Pt., . 2 168 Lewiston, ........ 7 335 Phænix, ......... 2 170 By rail road. Sweet's Lock,.... 3 173 Niagara Falls,.... 7 342 Ox creek,......... 3 176 | Buffalo,.......... 22 369 For a description of the route to Syracuse, see pp. 161 to 178. A packet boat leaves Syracuse twice a day for Oswego, reaching the latter place in about 10 hours. The villages of Salina and LIVERPOOL, through which the canal passes, were noticed at pp. 176, 177 and 178. Fulton, 20 miles from Liverpool, is a flourishing place, containing a number of mills, for which an extensive wa- ter power is afforded in a fall of the Oswego river. Oswego, 11 miles farther, is beautifully situated on both sides of the Oswego river at its entrance into Lake Ontario, which is here 60 miles wide. A bridge connects the two parts of the village, and the streets which are wide and laid out at right angles, extend in a parallel line from one side of the river to the other. The village owes much of its importance, not only to the numerous mills 202 RAIL ROAD, CANAL AND STEAMBOAT ROUTE. and manufactories for which its location is extremely eli. gible, being unsurpassed by any place in the country for hydraulic power, but also to the extensive commercial in. tercourse, by means of the lake, which it has with the Canadas and the west. The surplus waters of the canal, by an arrangement with the state, belong to the Oswego Canal Company, who, by a subsidiary canal, on the east side of the river, have conveyed them to the village, where they have a fall of 19 feet, and propel a great number of mills. Mr. Abra. ham Varick, the owner of an extensive property at this place, has also constructed, at great expense, a canal on the west side of the river, affording a similar fall, and equally important facilities for mills and manufactories. At the mouth of the river, jutting into the lake, the U. S. government have erected a pier or mole at the ex- pense of $200,000, rendering the harbor the safest and best on the American shore. Among the public buildings in the village, are a court house, 6 churches, 2 banks, and an academy. The pop- ulation is about 6000. The Welland House is one of the largest and best public establishments in the state. From its upper story an extensive and uninterrupted view is had of the lake, which is here 60 miles broad. The Oswego Hotel is also a large and respectable establishment. There is still pointed out to the tourist, the remains of two forts erected during the French war, which were be. sieged by Gen. Montcalm in 1756, and also one built during the revolution. LAKE ONTARIO. 203 The stEAMBOATS which ply between Oswego and the Falls, are of the best class, fitted up in superior style, and afford to passengers every desirable comfort and conven. ience. They leave the port soon after the arrival of the canal packets, and reach Lewiston in about 12 hours ; whence rail road carriages are taken for Niagara Falls, 7 miles distant, and for Buffalo, 22 miles farther. LAKE ONTARIO, On which the boat enters, after leaving the Oswego river, is 171 miles long, and 167 in circumference. In many places its depth has not been ascertained. In the middle a line of 350 fathoms has been let down without finding bottom. Of the many islands which this lake contains, the principal is Grand Isle, in a northeast direc. tion from Oswego, and opposite Kingston. At this place the lake is about 10 miles in width, and thence easterly, it gradually contracts until it reaches Brockville, a dis- tance of about 50 miles, where its width is not over 2 miles. About 40 miles of this distance is filled with a continued cluster of small islands, which, from their num. ber, have been distinguished by the name of the Thousand Islands. Though inferior in extent to the remaining four great western lakes, Ontario is far from being the least inter- esting. The northeast shore consists principally of low land, and is in many places marshy. On the north and northwest it is more elevated, and gradually subsides to- wards the south. The margin of the lake is generally bordered by thick forests, through which are occasionally seen little settlements surrounded with rich fields of culti- 82 204 RAIL ROAD, CANAL AND STEAMBOAT ROUTE. vation, terminated by lofty ridges of land here and there assuming the character of mountains. Some of the high. est elevations of land are the cliffs of Toronto, the Devil's Nose, and the Fifty Mile Hill. The principal rivers which empty into the lake on the south, are the Genesee and Oswego. York, (now Toronto,) Kingston and Sack- ett's Harbor, all situated on its borders, are well known in connection with the history of the last war. Great Sodus Bay, 23 miles from Oswego, embraces East Port and Little Sodus Bays, and has three islands of considerable size. The whole circumference of the bay, with its coves and points, is about 15 miles. CHARLOTTE, at the mouth of the Genesee river, 35 miles farther, is a port of entry, where there is a light house, and the commencement of extensive piers building by the United States, for improving the navigation. The river is navigable to the Carthage falls, 4 miles; thence to Rochester is 2 miles; to which place passengers can al- ways be conveyed by rail road carriages in readiness on the arrival of the boat. (See pp. 193 to 198.) Fort Niagara,* 74 miles farther, is located on the east or American shore of the Niagara river, at its entrance into Lake Ontario. It was built by the French in 1725, passed into British hands by the conquest of Canada, and was surrendered to the United States in 1796. It was taken by the British by surprise during the last war, and abandoned on the restoration of peace. The works are now in a state of decay. * This is the place where the celebrated William Mor. gan was confined after his abduction. LEWISTON-QUEENSTON. 205 FORT GEORGE, or Newark, is directly opposite. The village was burnt during the last war; which event was followed by the burning of several frontier villages on the American shore, as retaliatory. Fort George, near the village, is the most prominent, and perhaps the only ob- ject of interest presented. It is in a state of tolerable preservation, and has generally since the war been occu- pied as a garrison by a small number of soldiers. YOUNGSTOWN, a small village, is one mile south of Fort Niagara, on the American side; from which to LEWISTON, the terminating point of the steamboat pas. sage, is 6 miles farther. With the other frontier villages, it was laid in ruins during the last war, and was deserted by its inhabitants, from December, 1813, to April, 1815; but it is now in a flourishing condition, and its buildings exhibit much taste and neatness. A ferry is established between this place and Queenston, in crossing which, the boat is carried down for a considerable distance with much rapidity, but without danger. Every appearance con- firms the supposition, that at this place the falls once poured their immense volumes of water, but by a constant abrasion of the cataract, have receded to their present po- sition, 7 miles distant. QUEENSTON contains 50 or 60 dwellings, but has little in its appearance indicating a prosperous thriving village. The Battle of Queenston, which was fought at this place, occurred on the 13th of October, 1812. Gen. Van Rensselaer, who had command of the American troops at Lewiston, determined on crossing over and taking posses- sion of Queenston heights. The crossing was effected 206 BROCK'S MONUMENT. before day light; and the ascent, which was up a precip- itous ravine, rising near 300 feet above the river, was ac- complished amid the fire of the enemy from his breast. works on the heights. As the Americans approached, the British retreated to the village below; where their commandant, Gen. Brock, in forming his lines to reascend the heights, was mortally wounded by a random shot. His aid, Col. M'Donald, then took command and ascend. ed the heights, where he was also wounded mortally. The Americans continued in possession but a few hours, when they recrossed the river. The pickets and breast. works, though in a state of decay, are still visible. The spot on which Brock fell is pointed out to stran. gers. It was in a vacant lot in the village, since called Brock's lot. y . . BROCK'S MONUMENT Is on the heights, one fourth of a mile southwest of the village. It is composed of free stone; and, excepting the base, is of a spiral form. It is a fine specimen of archi- tecture, and from its elevation, is seen for many miles around. Its height is 126 feet; and the heights on which it is erected are 270 feet above the level of the Niagara river. The ascent to the top of the monument is by means of winding steps, 170 in number. It is extremely fatiguing; but the prospect afforded of the surrounding country, for 50 miles in extent, will richly repay the tour. ist for the time and trouble in visiting this pinnacle. The following inscription appears on the monument: “The Legislature of Upper Canada has dedicated this monument to the many civil and military services of the 208 - DEVIL'S HOLE-WHIRLPOOL. In pursuing the route from Lewiston to the Falls, the rail road soon commences ascending the heights, describ- ing the difference of altitude between Lakes Ontario and Erie. At the distance of two miles, the top is gained, and affords an imposing prospect of the almost intermin- able expanse below. The course of the mighty Niagara is easily traced to its outlet ; where, from their promi. nence, are distinctly seen, Forts Niagara and George. The waters of the distant lake and the surrounding plains are so charmingly picturesque, that the traveller proceeds reluctantly, even to participate in the enjoyment of scenes more sublime. Three and a half miles from Lewiston is what is called the Devil's HOLE, a most terrific gulf, formed by a chasm in the eastern bank of the Niagara, 150 or 200 feet deep. An angle of this gulf is within a few feet of the stage road; affording to the passing traveller, without alighting, an opportunity of looking into the yawning abyss beneath. During the French war, a detachment of the British ar- my, whilst retreating from Schlosser (about 5 miles south) in the night, before a superior force of French and In- dians, were destroyed at this place. Officers, soldiers, women and children, with their horses, waggons, baggage, &c., were all precipitated down the gulph. Those who were not destroyed in the river, were dashed in pieces on the naked rocks! THE WHIRLPOOL is one mile farther. It is formed by a short turn in the river, and can be seen on either side ; though the best view, connected with the rapids, is on the American shore. One mile farther, is a SULPHUR SPRING, used principally for bathing. NIAGARA FALLS. 209 NIAGARA FALLS Are a mile and a half farther. They are situated on the Niagara river, which unites the waters of the Upper Lakes and Lake Erie with Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence river. LAKE SUPERIOR, the first and western- most of these inland seas, lies between 46 and 49 deg. of north latitude, and between 84 and 93 deg. west longi- tude from London. Its length is 459, and its average width 109 miles. About 40 small and 3 large rivers en- ter into this lake, on one of which, just before its entrance, are perpendicular falls of more than 600 feet. The outlet of the lake is called the river St. Marie, which is 90 miles long, its waters flowing into LAKE Huron. This lake is on the boundary between the United States and Canada, 218 miles long from east to west, and 180 broad. Besides the waters of Lake Superior, it receives the waters of LAKE MICHIGAN, which is 300 miles long and about 50 miles wide. At its northwest corner a large inlet opens, called Green Bay, about 100 miles long, and from 15 to 20 broad, into which Fox river empties. Beside the Fox, the St. Joseph and Grand, two very important rivers, and innumerable smaller streams are also tributary. The wa- ters of these lakes thus congregated, enter the St. Clair river, 40 miles long, to the St. Clair Lake, which is about 90 miles in circumference. From this lake they enter the Detroit river, on which the city of Detroit stands, 9 miles below the lake, and communicate with Lake Erie, 19 miles from Detroit. LAKE Erie is on the boundary line between the United States and Upper Canada. It is 290 miles long from southwest to northeast, and in the 210 NIAGARA FALLS. widest part, 63 broad. Besides the waters of the upper lakes, it receives the Cuyahoga river and several tributa- ry streams. Such are the sources of the NIAGARA ; a river inferior in splendor to none, perhaps, in the world. It is 35 miles long, and from half a mile to 5 or 6 miles wide. The banks vary in their height above the Falls, from 4 to 100 feet. Immediately below the Falls, the precipice is not less than 300 feet, and thence to Lake Ontario it gradu. ally diminishes to the height of 25 or 30 feet. The Ni- agara river contains a number of islands, the principal of which is Grand Island, which was ceded to the state of New-York by the Seneca nation of Indians, in 1815. It is 12 miles long, and from 2 to 7 broad. The Falls are situated below Grand Island, about 20 miles distant from Lake Erie, and 14 from Lake Ontario. At Chippewa creek, on the Canada side, 2 miles above the Falls, the width of the river is nearly 2 miles, and its current extremely rapid. Thence to the Falls it gradually narrows to about 1 mile. The descent of the rapids has been estimated at 58 feet. The course of the river above the Falls is north-westwardly, and below it turns abruptly to the northeast, flowing about a mile and a half, when it assumes a northern direction to Lake Ontario. The sheet of water above the Falls is separated by Goat Island, leaving the grand fall on the Canadian side about 600 yards wide, and the high fall on the American side about 300. The latter drops almost perpendicularly to the dis- tance of 164 feet. The grand or horse-shoe fall, on the Canada side, descends to the river below in the form of a curve, 158 feet, projecting about 50 feet from the base. NIAGARA FALLS 211 The whole height, including the descent of the rapids: above, is 216 feet. On the American side, A flight of stairs has been constructed from the bank & few rods below the falls to the bottom. In consequence of a rocky barrier in front of the falling sheet, it can be approached to within a few feet; though not without en- countering a plentiful shower of the spray. About a quarter of a mile above the fall a bridge has been con- structed from the shore to Bath Island; which is con- nected by means of another bridge with Goat Island. The sensation in crossing these bridges, and particularly the first, * over the tremendous rapids beneath, is calcula. ed to alarm the traveller for his safety, and hasten him in his excursion to the Island. On Bath Island, mills have * Gen. Peter B. Porter, to whom the public are indebted for the construction of this bridge, informed me that its erection was not effected without considerable danger. Two large trees, hewed to correspond with their shape, were first constructed into a temporary bridge, the buts fastened to the shore, with the lightest ends projecting over the rapids. At the extremity of the projection, a small pier of stone was first placed in the river, and when this became secure, logs were sunk around it, locked in such a manner as to form a frame, which was filled with stone. A bridge was then made to this pier, the tempo. rary bridge shoved forward, and another pier formed, un- til the whole was completed. One man fell into the rapids during the work. At first, owing to the velocity with which he was carried forward, he was unable to hold upon the projecting rocks; but through great bodily ex- ertions to lessen the motion, by swimming against the current, he was enabled to seize upon a rock, from which he was taken by means of a rope. NIAGARA FALLS. 213 river below, (about 80 feet,) are three paths formed of stone steps, and leading to the water in different direci tions.* The amount of water which passes over the respective falls has been estimated by Dr. Dwight at more than 100 millions of tons an hour! No method can be devised for ascertaining the depth at the principal fall; but it is not improbable that it may be 6 or 800 feet; as the depth of the stream half a mile below is from 250 to 260 feet. To a stranger who shall examine the rapids above the falls, it will seem incredible that Goat Island should ever have been visited previous to the construction of a bridge. Yet as early as 1765,t several French officers were conveyed to it by Indians in canoes, carefully drop- ping down the river; and it is but a few years since Gen. Porter, of Black Rock, with some other gentlemen, also made a trip to the Island in a boat. They found but lit- tle trouble in descending ; but their return was difficult and hazardous. It was effected by shoving the boat with setting poles up the most shallow part of the current, for half a mile, before making for the shore. Falling into the current within a mile of the falls, is considered fatal. Several accidents of this kind have happened; and no one (save in the instance mentioned in a preceding page) has ever reached the shore. Many * It was from ladders erected at this place that the celebrated Sam Patch made a descent of 118 feet into the water below, a short time previous to his fatal leap at Rochester, in the fall of 1829. + Trees marked 1765 and 1769, are still to be seen on the island. NIAGARA FALLS. 215 tants desirous of passing in the rear of the great sheet of water, are supplied by the keeper of the stairs with dress. es for that purpose, and with a guide. On reaching the bottom a rough path winds along the foot of the precipice and leads under the excavated bank, which, in one place, overhangs about 40 feet. The entrance into the tremen- dous cavern behind the falling sheet, should never be at- tempted by persons of weak nerves. The humidity of the atmosphere, which, at times, almost prevents respira- tion; the deafening roar of the foaming torrent, and the sombre appearance of surrounding objects, is oftentimes calculated to unnerve the stoutest frame. The farthest distance that can be approached, is to what is called Termination Rock, 153 feet from the commencement of the volume of water at Table Rock. Few, however, have the courage to proceed that distance, and seldom go farther than 100 feet. A large crack in the table rock, which has increased annually for some years, renders it very certain that a considerable proportion will ere long fall into the abyss below. The part thus cracked is nearly 50 feet in width, and might be blasted off without difficulty. The height of this rock has been ascertained to be 163 feet; while that of the Falls, measuring from the bridge near the terrapin rocks, has proved to be 158 feet 4 inches. The Pavilion, on the Canada side, is on a lofty emi. nence above the Falls; affording from its piazzas and roof a beautiful prospect of the surrounding scenery. It is a handsomely constructed building, and can accommo- date from 100 to 150 guests. Connected with the estab- lishment is a platform along what is called the upper T2 216 BURNING SPRING. . bank, between the house and river, giving an easy de scent to the Table Rock. This with the stair case from the rock to the bank below, affords a pleasant and safe means of obtaining one of the best views of the Falls. While on the Canadian side, tourists will find it interesting to visit the Deep Cut of the WELLAND CA- NAL, eight miles west of the Falls. This canal, which unites the waters of Lakes Erie and Ontario, and which is constructed for sloops of 125 tons burthen, commences at Port Maitland, at the mouth of the Grand river on Lake Erie, 40 miles west of Buffalo, and follows the channel of that stream nearly a mile and a half, and thence up Broad creek nearly a mile, where the artificial channel commences by a cut of 10 miles through a marsh. It then proceeds down Mill creek 2 1-2 miles until it intersects the Welland river; soon after which the deep cut commences, averaging 44 feet for a mile, through a tenacivus clay. Beyond this, for a distance of 4 miles, the canal preserves an elevation corresponding with the cut; when, in 4 miles farther, it descends, by means of 32 locks, 322 feet. Thence to Lake Ontario, a dis- tance of 5 miles, it is mostly in the bed of the Twelve Mile creek. The whole length of the canal, including 19 miles of slack water navigation, is about 44 miles. BURNING SPRING.-About half a mile south of the Falls, (on the Canadian side) and within a few feet of the Niagara river, is a Burning Spring. The water is warm and surcharged with sulphuretted hydrogen gas. The water rises in a barrel, which is covered, and the gas es- capes through a tube. On applying a candle to the tube, the gas takes fire, and burns with a brilliant flame until BATTLE OF BRIDGEWATER. 217 blown out; and on closing the building for a short time in which the spring is contained, and afterwards entering it with a lighted candle, an explosion may be produced. A small fee for the exhibition is required by the keeper of the spring. BRIDGEWATER, or LUNDY's Lane, is half a mile further. It is celebrated as the ground on which an important battle was fought between the British and Americans in July, 1814. In the afternoon, the British advanced towards Chippewa with a powerful force. At 6 o'clock, Gen. Scott was ordered to advance with his brigade and attack them. He was soon reinforced by General Rip- ley's brigade ; they met the British below the falls. They had selected their ground for the night, intending to at. tack the American camp before day-light. The action began just before 7, and an uninterrupted stream of mus. ketry continued till half past 8, when there was some cessation, the British falling back. It soon began again with some artillery, which, with slight interruptions, con- tinued till half past 10, when there was a charge, and a tremendous stream of fire closed the conflict. Both ar- mies fought with a desperation bordering on madness; neither would yield the palm, but each retired a short dis- tance, wearied out with fatigue. For two hours the two hostile lines were within 20 yards of each other, and so frequently intermingled, that often an officer would order an enemy's platoon. The moon shone bright; but part of the Americans being dressed like the Glengarian regi. ment caused the deception. The British loss in killed, wounded and prisoners was 878, and the American loss 860. 218 BATTLE OF CHIPPEWA. The road from the Falls passes directly over the hill where the British artillery was posted at the time Scott's brigade commenced the action; and the houses in the village of Bridgewater—the trees and fences in the vicin. ity, still retain marks of the combat. Many graves are seen upon the hill ; among others that of Capt. Hull, son of the late Gen. Hull, who distinguished himself and fell in this action. Most of the slain were collected and burned upon the battle ground. CHIPPEWA VILLAGE is one mile south of the battle ground. It contains a small cluster of buildings and a few mills situate on the Chippewa creek, which runs through the village. One mile farther is The Chippewa BATTLE GROUND. The battle of Chip- pewa was fought on the 5th of July, 1814, and has been described as one of the most brilliant spectacles that could well be conceived, The day (says a writer) was clear and bright; and the plain such as might have been selected for a parade or a tournament; the troops on both sides, though not numerous, admirably disciplined; the generals leading on their columns in person ; the glitter of the arms in the sun, and the precision and distinctness of every movement, were all calculated to carry the mind back to the scenes of ancient story or poetry-to the plains of Latium or of Troy, and all those recollections which fill the imagination with images of personal hero- ism and romantic valor. After some skirmishing, the British Indians were dis. covered in the rear of the American camp. Gen. Porter, with his volunteers and Indians, were directed to scour in BATTLE OF CHIPPEWA, 219 the adjoining forest. This force had nearly debouched from the woods opposite Chippewa, when it was ascer- tained that the whole British force, under Gen. Riall, had crossed the Chippewa bridge. Gen. Brown gave imme- diate orders to Gen. Scott to advance with his brigade, and to Gen. Ripley to be in readiness to support. In a few minutes, the British line was discovered formed and rapidly advancing, their right on the woods, and their left on the river. Their objeet was to gain the bridge across a small creek in front of the American encampment,, which, if done, would have compelled the Americans to retire. The bridge, however, was soon gained by Gen. Scott and crossed, under a tremendous fire of the British artillery, and his line formed. The British orders were to give one volley at a distance, and immediately charge. But such was the warmth of the American musquetry that they could not withstand it, and were obliged to re- treat before the appearance of Ripley's brigade, which had been directed to make a movement through the woods upon the British right ftank. The British recross- ed the Chippewa bridge, which they broke down on their retreat, having suffered a loss in killed, wounded and missing, of 514. The American loss was 328. Returning to the American side of the Falls, a passage is taken in the rail road cars for Buffalo. Two and a half miles from the Falls is the site of old Fort Schlosser on the bank of the river, rendered somewhat noted in mod. ern times, as the spot at which the Caroline steamer lay moored at the time of her capture by an armed British force in the winter of 1838. She was detached from her moorings, set on fire, and sent adrift over the Falls. 220 NAVY ISLAND-WATERLOO. One man is known to have been killed, who was standing on the shore at the time of the conflict, and it is generally believed that some were lost in the burning vessel ; but 20 positive proof has ever been adduced on the subject. Navy ISLAND, between which and the American shore the Caroline plied several times previous to her destruc. tion, lies nearly opposite Fort Schlosser. It is at the foot of Grand Island, and contains about 300 acres. It was in the possession of a band of Canadian refugees and American volunteers at the time of the burning of the Caroline, and was not evacuated by them, until all sup. plies were cut off from the American as well as Canadian shore. Black Rock, about 16 miles south of Schlosser, is a village of considerable magnitude on the east bank of the Niagara river. It was burnt by the British in 1814; but has been rebuilt, and is much increased from its former size. A pier in the river, about 2 miles long, affords a harbor to the village, and is used as a part of the Erie canal. The dam, however, has been found insufficient to withstand the force of the current. Repeated injuries are sustained, and vessels now seldom enter the harbor. Opposite Black Rock, on the Canada side, is the small village of WATERLOO ; a little north of which stand the ruins of Fort ERIE, rendered memorable as the theatre of several engagements during the late war. The last and most decisive battle fought at this place, was on the night of the 15th of August, 1814. The fort was occupied by the Americans; and its possession was considered an object of importance to the British. Taking advantage of the BUFFALO. 221 darkness of the night, they made repeated and furious assaults, and were as often repulsed ; until, at length, they succeeded, by superior force, in gaining a bastion. After maintaining it for a short time, at the expense of many lives, accident placed it again in the hands of the Americans. Several cartridges which had been placed in a stone building adjoining exploded, producing tremen, dous slaughter and death among the British. They soon retreated, leaving on the field 221 killed, among whom were Cols. Scott and Drummond, 174 wounded, and 186 prisoners. The American loss was 17 killed, 56 wound- ed, and 11 missing. This action was followed by a splendid sortie near the fort on the 17th of the following month, which resulted in a loss to the British of near 1000, including 385 pris. oners, and to the Americans of 511 killed, wounded and missing. BUFFALO, Situated at the outlet of Lake Erie, is 3 miles from Black Rock. It is a beautiful and thriving city, and with the advantages of both a natural and artificial navigation, is destined to become one of the most important places in the state. Its present population is estimated at about 20,000, and the number of buildings at 2500. The Erie canal commences in this city, near the outlet of the Buf. falo creck, and passes through an extensive and perfectly level plot, equidistant from the shore of the lake and the high grounds called the Terrace. From the canal are cut, at very suitable distances, lateral canals and basins, rendering the whole of what has heretofore been termed the . 222 BUFFALO. lower town, contiguous to water communication. Stores and warehouses are so constructed as to receive the boats along side. In its location, Buffalo is in the midst of the enterprize and business of this new world. All the man- ufactures and migrating population from the north and east here find a resting place, and the agricultural pro- ducts of the west, coming from the long extended lakes, here seek a new evenue to the Atlantic. At the Terrace, which was formerly the dividing line between the upper and lower towns, but which are now rendered continuous, a gentle and equal rise of ground commences, continuing nearly and perhaps quite two miles, and then falls away to a perfect level as far as the eye can reach, bounded on. ly by the horizon. Upon this elevated ground there is a charming view of the lake, Niagara river, the canal with its branches, the Buffalo creek, the town itself, and the Canada shore; a prospect from which every one parts with reluctance. The streets are very broad, and passing from the high grounds over the Terrace to the water, are intersected with cross streets. There are three public -squares of some extent, which add much to the beauty of the city. The public buildings are a court house, situated on the highest part of Main street, well proportioned and handsomely ornamented, with a large park in front, en. closed and set round with forest trees; 16' churches, a college, a literary and scientific academy, a lyceum, a fe. male seminary and 3 banks. The Presbyterian meeting house, standing near the Episcopal church upon a semi- circular common on Main street, is an edifice of very commanding appearance; and several of the churches are BUFFALO. 223 beautiful specimens of architecture, and would do credit to any city in America. There are several spacious public houses ; among which, the AMERICAN HOTEL is probably not surpassed by any in the United States, either as to size, furniture, or the style in which it is kept. The EAGLE Tavern, BUFFALO House and City HOTEL are also extensive and highly re- spectable establishments, and share liberally in the public patronage. The place (then a village) was burnt by the British in 1814, when there was but one house left standing. This is still pointed out in the upper part of the city. It was not until considerable time had elapsed after this, that Buffalo began to be rebuilt, nor until the canal was loca- ted, did it rise with much promise. In 1822 it was in- corporated as a city, and is rapidly rising into importance. A ship canal, 80 feet wide and 13 deep, extends across from the harbor, near the outlet of Buffalo creek to the canal, a distance of about 700 yards; and a boat canal from the Big Buffalo creek to the Little Buffalo creek, a distance of 1600 feet. Between 40 and 50 steamboats ply between the city and various places on the lake. A morning and evening boat leave the harbor daily for De- troit, and additional boats are building which will even increase the facilities of communication. As this place was the theatre of important events during the last war, the writer had expected to find in the city church yards some monuments to the memory of the brave who fell during that period; but he discovered only one ; it contained the following inscription : “ To the memory of Maj. Wm. Howe CUYLER, who was killed at · U BUFFALO TO DETROIT. 225 boat, from Cincinnati to Louisville, $4; from do. to St. Louis, $16; from do. to New Orleans, $25. SU 35 FROM BUFFALO TO DETROIT, 311 miles. Steamboats leave Buffalo twice a day for Detroit, occu- pying about 36 hours in the passage. The intermediate places of prominence and the distances are as follow : Miles. 1 Miles. From Buffalo to Stur. | Fairport,......... 32 157 geon Pt., N.Y.. 10 Cleveland, ....... 30 187 Cattaraugus, ..... 10 20 Sandusky,....... 54 241 Dunkirk....... 13 33 Cunningham's Isl., 12 253 Van Buren,... North Bass Island, 10 263 Portland, ..... 51 | Middle Sister do. 10 273 Burgett's Town, P. 18 69 | Amherstburgh, U. ... 17 86 Canada........ 20 293 Fairview,........ 11 97 | Fighting Island,.. 6 299 Ashtabula, Ohio,.. 28 125 | Detroit, Mich.,... 12 311 DUNKIRK, N. Y., is at present a small village ; but its fine harbor, which is frequently clear of ice much earlier in the season than the Buffalo harbor, together with the termination of the proposed New-York and Erie rail road within its precincts, will hereafter render it a place of much commerce and importance. Van BUREN, 2 miles farther, is a new and flourishing village, handsomely laid out, and is destined to be a place of considerable trade. PORTLAND, 16 miles. BURGETT's Town, Penn. 18 miles. ERIE, 17 miles farther, contains a court house, 2 banks, 5 churches, and about 2500 inhabitants, and in its local 226 CLEVELAND. advantages is equalled by few towns in the interior. Be. sides a water communication with all the towns on the western lakes, it is the terminating point of the Pennsyl- vania canal, which connects Philadelphia and Pittsburgh with Lake Erie. The village is distant from Pittsburgh 120 miles, and from Philadelphia 380. Fairview, 11 miles. ASHTABULA, Ohio, 28 miles. It has a good harbor and is a thriving village. Fairport, 32 miles, is located at the junction of Grand river with the lake. CLEVELAND, 30 miles. It is the capital of Cuyahoga county, and is handsomely situated at the mouth of a creek of that name. From a small village, it has within a few years attained an extraordinary growth, and is now one of the most prominent towns in the state. This may be attributed, in a great measure, to the termination of the Ohio and Erie canal at this place—thus rendering it not only a point of great commerce with the lake, but also with thc Ohio river. The entire length of this canal is 307 miles. Com. mencing at the mouth of the Cuyahoga, 568 feet above the Ohio river, it follows the bank of that river 37 miles ; whence it crosses Portage summit to the Tuscarawas river, along the banks of which it descends to the Tomoka creek. Ascending this creek for a short distance, it crosses over to the Licking river, a branch of the Muskin. gum, which it ascends to a point on the South Fork, a few miles south of Newark; thence it crosses over to Walnut creek, a small stream which falls into the Scioto; CLEVELAND TO CINCINNATI. 227 after reaching that river, it descends along the eastern bank to Circleville, and there crosses over to the west bank, along which it descends, passing Chillicothe, to the mouth of the Scioto at Portsmouth. The dimensions are similar to those of the New York and Erie canal. Lock. age 1185 feet. Packets run daily on the canal, reaching Portsmouth in about 3 1-2 days; where steamboats are taken for Cincinnati, Louisville and New Orleans.* Miles. ........... 26 WOOFER Bolivar,. ..... Zoar,..... * To travellers who design an excursion to Cincinnati, or to Columbus, the seat of government of the state, the following table of distances on this canal will be useful : Miles. From Cleveland to the Irville, ....... Cuyahoga aqueduct, 22 Newark,........ Old Portage, ......... 12 Hebron, ............. 10 Akron, Licking Summit, . New Portage, ... Lancaster Canaan, Clinton, ...... COLUMBUS, (side cut). Mazillow, ..... Bloomfield, ..... Bethlehem, ... 6 CIRCLEVILLE,... 8 | CHILLICOTHE, .... ..... 3 Piketon,..... Dover, ... 7 | Lucasville,.. N. Philadelphia, .... PORTSMOUTH, (Ohio riv- New.Comer's Town, .. 22 | er,) ............... 13 Coshocton,........... 17 From Portsmouth, the distance by steamboat to Cin- cinnati is 113 miles, as follows : Vanceburgh, Ken. 20— Manchester, Ohio, 16—Maysville, Ken. 11-Charleston, Ken. 4-Ripley, Ohio, 6% Augusta, Ken. 8-Neville, Ohio, 7-Moscow, Ohio, 7-Point Pleasant, Ohio, 4- New Richmond, Ohio, 7-Columbia, Ohio, 15—Fulton, Ohio, 6--CINCINNATI, Ohio, 2. From the latter place to LOUISVILLE, Ken,, the distance is 143 miles ; thence to the junction of the Ohio with the Mississippi river, 366; and thence to New Orleans, 1284 miles. U2 DETROIT. 229 town had been perpetrated; and the bones of seven hun. dred of the noblest sons of Kentucky lay bleaching on the earth, the victims of the most wanton perfidy. Their fate, however, was soon afterwards avenged at the battle of the Thames. DETROIT is 18 miles from Amherstburgh. In natural beauty and advantages of locality, it is surpassed by few cities at the west. The greater part of the town is situa. ted on a bluff terminating a few feet from the water, in a very extensive and beautiful plain. As the boat ap- proaches the city, the shores display a succession of hand- some country seats, and the town exhibits an imposing appearance. Jefferson Avenue, extending along the river about a mile and a half, with its neat buildings, shaded with forest trees, its bustle, life and gay equipages, is justly the pride of every inhabitant. There are few streets, indeed, in any city of equal beauty, or possessing greater interest. Formerly, it was principally lined with low French dwellings; but these have given place to those of modern style and improved architecture. The business and population of the city, and the value of real estate have greatly increased within a few years. Its present population is from 12,000 to 14,000. A rail road has been constructed from Detroit to Ypsi. lanti, 33 miles ; whence stages are taken for Saint Joseph, on Lake Michigan, 169 miles; and thence to Chicago, Illinois, by steamboat, 92 miles farther. The route, by stage, is over what is termed the government road, and passes through the village of Jonesville, 68 miles from Ypsilanti; Coldwater, 20 miles; Sturge's Prairie, 25 miles ; Mottville, 17 miles; thence to the 230 FROM DETROIT TO CHICAGO. mouth of the St. Joseph is 40 miles. Most of the villages are new, but flourishing; and the forests are daily giving place to cultivation. The town of St. Joseph, located at the mouth of the river, (which is navigable for steamboats for 50 miles) is rapidly increasing in population, and will soon become a place of much importance. Its harbor is good, and it has been selected as the terminating point of the public im- provements which are to extend from Detroit across the peninsula. Steamboats also leave Detroit once a fortnight, by way of Lake Huron, for Chicago, touching on the route at the mouth of St. Clair river, 40 miles, Palmer 17, Fort Gratiot 14, White rock 40, Thunder Island 70, Middle Island 25, Presque Isle 65, Mackinaw 58, Isle Brule 75, Fort Howard (Wisconsin Territory) 100, and Milwaukee (W. T.) 310 miles; whence to Chicago is 90 miles. But the more common route, and especially for those who are desirous of visiting Detroit as well as Chicago, is to take a steamboat for Toledo, and thence complete the excursion by rail road, stage and steamboat, as follows: FROM DETROIT TO CHICAGO, Via Toledo-309 miles. Miles. Miles. By steamboat. Niles,............... 100 Detroit to Toledo,..... 71 | Michigan City, (Ind.) 40 By rail road. Adrian,.............. 33 By steamboat. By stage. Chicago, Illinois,)... 55 Tecumseh,........... 10 | TOLEDO, 71 miles from Detroit, is the terminating point of the steamboat passage. It is located on the ADRIAN-MICHIGAN CITY. 231 Maumee river, nine miles from its junction with Lake Erie, and is within what has heretofore been termed the disputed territory between Ohio and Michigan. In 1834, the space now occupied for the village, with a slight ex- ception, was a dense forest. Now it numbers between three and four thousand inhabitants. From its location, it cannot be otherwise than a place of much importance. ADRIAN, 33 miles, is the present termination of the rail road. TECUMSEH, 10 miles farther, is a flourishing village of between two and three thousand inhabitants. Between Tecumseh and Niles, which is 100 miles, there are very few villages of importance. The country, however, is rapidly improv- ing, and will ere long be settled with an extensive popu- lation. The village of Niles is located on the St. Joseph's river, and contains a poulation of about 1500 inhabitants. Michigan CITY (Indiana) is 40 miles farther, and is the termination of the stage route, (unless the traveller prefers passing around the southern extremity of the lake.) The town is situated on the south-eastern corner of Lake Michigan, at the mouth of Trail creek, in a glen, surrounded by sand hills. It is the only point where any stream of magnitude from Indiana communicates with the Lake, and consequently the only spot where, by any possibility, she can build a city. In 1834, the place con- tained only a solitary family; now it has a population of 1500, and its business operations are quite extensive. It is the commercial depot for the entire north of Indiana- her emporium—and the great mart for her produce. A 232 CHICAGO. canal from this place, to unite with the Wabash and Erie canal at Fort Wayne, on the Maumee, is in progress. From Michigan city to Chicago, (Illinois,) the distance across the lake is 55 miles. It is located on the Chicago river, at its junction with the lake, at that precise point on the great chain of northern lakes which is most nearly approached by the Mississippi river. The Illinois river, through one of its branches, approaches within 10 miles of Chicago. Through its whole course, from near the junction of the two streams, by which it is formed to its mouth, navigation is unimpeded; and when connected with the waters of the great chain of lakes by the Illinois and Michigan canal, whose commencement was celebrated on the 4th of July, 1836, a line of internal communication between the wa- ters of the Atlantic and Mississippi will be completed, which must be the vehicle of a vast commerce, bearing the mineral and agricultural resources of one of the most fertile regions of the Union to an eastern market, and re. compensing the producer of the west with the comforts and luxuries of other and distant climes. Chicago must of necessity be the thoroughfare of this commercial inter- course ; and to this calculation, though but recently made, may be attributed its unparalleled growth. In 1833, there were but a few scattering tenements in the place, and on- ly four or five arrivals from the lower lakes. In 1836, the number amounted to 456, the buildings to more than 1000, and the population to nearly 5000. It already con- tains 7 or 8 churches, a bank, and a marine and fire in. surance company; and its stores, warehouses and public buildings are continually augmenting. CHICAGO. 233 Steamboats leave Chicago daily for various ports on the lake; a visit to none of which, for a short excursion, will prove more interesting than that of MILWAUKEE, (Wis- consin Territory,) 90 miles in a northerly direction. It is the largest town in the territory, though, like most of the western villages, its origin is very recent. In 1832, it was scarcely known. During the following year, it num- bered 1300 inhabitants. It is situated at the mouth of Milwaukee river, and must, in time, in consequence of the fertility of the soil by which it is surrounded, and the advantages which it possesses of a fine natural harbor, be one of the most important cities of the west. Stages leave Chicago daily for Galena, (the locality of the celebrated lead mines,) 100 miles west, on the Missis- sippi river, to which a rail road is contemplated. Stages also leave daily in a S. W. direction, for Peru, the head of steamboat navigation on the Illinois river, passing through Juliette, a flourishing village, 30 miles distant; Ottawa, at the junction of the Fox river with the Illinois, 53 miles farther; whence to Peru is 17 miles. This is to be the terminating point of a canal from Chicago, and also of what is termed the central rail road, commencing near the junction of the Ohio with the Mississippi river, and must become an important town. From Peru, steam- boats are taken for Peoria, 60 miles distant; also for Al- ton, on the Mississippi, (3 miles above the mouth of the Missouri,) 149 miles farther; whence to St. Louis is 21 miles. At Alton a stage can be taken daily, for Vandalia, 50 miles, in an easterly direction. From Vandalia, down the Kaskaskia river, to the village of that name, is 95 miles ; thence to the junction of the Kaskaskia with the 234 BUFFALO TO MONTREAL. i Mississippi is 11 miles; and thence to the mouth of the Ohio river, 100 miles. FROM BUFFALO TO MONTREAL, Via Lake Ontario, on the British side, 451 miles- Fare $19,50. Miles. Coburg. . INTERMEDIATE DISTANCES. Miles. By rail road. Dickinson's Land- From Buffalo to Nia- ing,.......... 38 349 gara Falls, ....... 22 By stage. Lewiston,........ 7 29 Cornwall,........ 12 361 By steamboat. By steamboat. Fort George,.... 7 36 Coteau du Lac,.. 41 402 Toronto,...... 30 66 By stage. Port Hope,.... 65 131 Cascades,....... 16 418 7 138 By steamboat. Kingston, ... 105 243 | Lachine.......... 24 442 Gananoque,..... 24 267 i By stage. Brockville,...... 32 299 Montreal, ....... 9 451 Prescott,........ 12 311 | The route from Buffalo to Fort George has already been described. (See p. 205.) Lake Ontario. (See p. 203.) TORONTO, 30 miles from Fort George, is the capital and chief city of Upper Canada, and is situated in the west riding of York, in the Home district, on an arm of Lake Ontario, 36 miles in a northeasterly direction from Niagara, and 177 miles southwesterly from Kingston. The city has a commanding view of the harbor, which is formed by a long narrow peninsula, 3 miles in extent, and frequently so narrow as scarcely to admit a carriage; striking the traveller as an artificial breakwater, for which TORONTO-PORT HOPE. 235 it is frequently mistaken. It is perhaps one of the finest harbors in the world—perfectly safe at all times, and so capacious that a thousand ships of the line may ride at anchor within it. The population of Toronto is 12,500. The buildings are principally of brick, and the city gen. erally has the appearance of enterprise and prosperity. It is an important military post, two regiments of regular troops being usually stationed there. The public build- ings, including the residence of the Lieut. Governor, Par. liament House, &c., are very handsome specimens of modern architecture, and worthy the attention of the tourist. There are several good hotels, the principal of which is the North American, kept by Mr. Campbell. Daily lines of steamboats cross the head of the lake to Niagara and Queenston, and down the lake to Kingston, touching at the intermediate ports.* Taking the steamer down the lake, the first landing is Port Hope, a small town, beautifully situated on ei- ther side of the river of the same name. It has a popu- lation of 1500 inhabitants, dispersed upon a number of hills, giving it an irregular but highly picturesque appearance. * While at Niagara, the tourist will be at liberty either to cross the Lake direct to Toronto, or take a steamer by the head of Burlington Bay, touching at Hamilton and Dundas, and thence to Toronto. This latter route will nearly double the distance, but he will be amply compen- sated by the beauty of the scenery on both sides of the bay ; besides being enabled to add to his Sketch Book, “ Hamilton and Dundas,” the former of which is the re- sidence of Sir Allan McNab, the present Speaker of the Upper Canada Parliament, and is a town of unsurpassing beauty, containing some 1200 inhabitants. : COBURG. 236 Here are five churches and several hotels. Of the latter little can be said in their praise—the Royal Hotel, for- merly a very good house, having been changed to a pri- vate residence. Port Hope river is a small rapid stream, which affords great facilities for hydraulic works, which are improved to a considerable extent. A survey for a canal and slack- water navigation up this river to Rice Lake has been made, and the work will probably be constructed. A com- pany called the “ Port Hope Harbor Company,” recently engaged in constructing wharves, and deepening the mouth of the river, have succeeded in making it one of the best harbors on the lake, admitting ships of the lar. gest class. Seven miles further, the boat reaches Coburg, a pretty provincial town, and the seat of jus- tice for New-Castle district, situated on a plain slightly elevated above the lake; the buildings chiefly of wood, painted white, and looking any thing but like a seaport. Indeed, it can hardly be called such, as there is no natu- ral harbor, and the piers or wharves stretching into the lake are continually being demolished by the violence of the waves, so that vessels unlading at Coburg frequently seek shelter in Port Hope harbor in case of threatened storms. It has a population of 2000; but which is not rapidly augmenting. Here are several excellent hotels the Albion and North American being considered the best. The village also contains a respectable seminary, a Methodist college, and a court house and jail. The latter is built of hewn stone, with a collonade front, and has altogether an imposing appearance. 238 BELLVILLE-BAY OF QUINTE. The fort and navy yard on the points, and the mess house and barracks on the northeast side of the town, are worth the attention of the tourist, and may be seen by procuring an order from the sheriff of the district or the commandant of the station. The British American Hotel and the Lambton House are among the best hotels which the place affords. The Commercial Bank of Kingston, the court house and jail, the Catholic chapel, and many private residences built of native limestone, are not only substantial but el. egant buildings. Kingston is a port of entry, and its natural location is such as to render it the commercial capital of Upper Can. ada.* Steamers leave the port daily for Coburg, Port Hope, Toronto, &c. up the lake, and for Brockville and Prescott, down the St. Lawrence. There is also a tri- weekly line to Oswego, by the way of Sackett's Harbor, and a line thence twice a week directly across the lake, a distance of 60 miles. (Fare $2,50, by either route.) A boat likewise leaves every day for BellvilLE, up the Bay of Quinte.t The traveller, who can devote the * The present political changes going on in Canada, in- dicate a consolidation of the two Provinces, in which event a more central point for the seat of government than either of the present capitals would be desirable, and it is not improbable that Kingston, at no remote period, may become the capital of the United Provinces. + The Bay of Quinte, so called, is in fact rather the mouth of the river Trent, or Otonibee, than a bay of Lake Ontario; as it has a perceptible current, and no commu. nication with the lake for many miles after it widens into a bay. The River Trent, or Otonibee, is the outlet of a RIDEAU AND OTTAWA CANAL. 239 time, cannot do better than make a trip to Bellville. The distance by land is 59 miles—by water, somewhat fur- ther. The latter route seems to be preferred on account of its ever-varying scenery. Now the silvery bay ex- pands to the dimensions of a broad lake ; anon it becomes so narrow that you fancy your progress intercepted by the proximity of the shores and the impenetrable gloom of the eternal forest. Here on the left you see the plains of Prince Edward, stretching away in “ dizziness of distance,” and there on the right, the “ Woods and cornfields, and the abodes of men, “Scattered at intervals,”– of the fine agricultural counties of Hastings and Fronte- nac. In a few hours you reach Bellville, a pleasant town, situated on the north side of the bay, and near the mouth of the River Moira, containing about 250 dwelling houses, and from 1000 to 1500 inhabitants. You can return to Kingston by boat, the following day. While enumerating the advantages, natural and artifi. cial, possessed by Kingston, we should not overlook the RIDEAU AND Ottawa Canal. This stupendous work, which was constructed at the expense of the home gov- ernment, forms an inland communication between King- ston and Montreal for vessels of 125 tons burthen. One object of its construction, was to secure the transporta. tion in time of war, of arms and military stores to and from these important points, by a route far removed from long chain of lakes in the northeast country, towards Lake Huron, and which falls into Lake Ontario, near Kingston. v2 RIDEAU AND OTTAWA CANAL. 241 mation of the cauldron into which the waters fall. This formation consists of a hard laminated lime-stone, in hori- zontal strata, and worn into its present horse-shoe shape by the constant abrasion of the rolling water over its sur- face. The depth of the cauldron is said to be over three hundred feet—at least, a sounding line of that length could not be made to touch bottom. Next in interest to these may be mentioned the cata. ract of the Rideau, situated at the mouth of the river, where its dark green waters fall from an eminence of 37 feet, in a single unbroken sheet. The river finds its source in the Rideau Lake, 85 miles from the Ottawa, but is not occupied as the bed of the canal till about 6 miles above its entrance, it having been found more ex- pedient to make use of the natural valley and bay already alluded to. At this point it became necessary, in consequence of the rugged and precipitate nature of the banks of the Ot. tawa, to overcome the difference of level between the river and canal by the construction of a series of locks, eight in number, and each rising ten feet, giving an ag. gregate of eighty feet perpendicular rise; constructed in a liberal workmanlike manner, and presenting an elegant and commanding appearance. The estimated cost was £45,700. In the vicinity of the locks are two spacious basins for the reception of boats; over one of which there is a stone arch, connecting Upper and Lower Bytown. About seventy miles of the route passes through either extensive lakes with bold and rocky shores, or soft swampy meadows, where good foundations were unat- tainable, save at great additional expense. Hence it be. 242 RIDEAU AND OTTAWA CANAL. came necessary to do away with the ordinary towing path, and enlarge the canal to a surface of 48 feet, with a depth of 5 feet throughout, to admit the passage of steamboats from one extremity to the other. The towns of Upper and Lower By, so named after the commandant of engineers, Lieut. Col. John By, under whose superintendence the works were constructed, have already assumed a character and importance which, when their brief existence is taken into consideration, is truly marvellous. The towns already contain, in addi- tion to their numerous dwelling-houses, two large store. houses for the use of the Ordnance and Commissariat Departments; three substantial buildings for the accom. modation of the troops, erected on the highest eminence, so as to command both the river and canal; and at a short distance an excellent military hospital. In the vicinity may also be seen, in the “ Union Bridge,” the execution of one of the most daring plans over conceived. It connects Upper with Lower Cana. da, and is thrown directly over the falls of the Chaudiere, taking advantage of the numerous rocky islands embrac- ed by the diverging branches of the river at this place; and forming altogether a most magnificent and imposing specimen of civil architecture. The bridge is composed of six distinct arches, two of stone and four of wood, stretching from island to island with various spans, as cir- cumstances required; and forming an aggregate length of bridge-way of 781 feet. Taking leave of Bytown and its vicinity, and proceeding along the line until it strikes the river, little of interest occurs saying a singular break in an interesting ridge of land, extending for several miles RIDEAU AND OTTAWA CANAL. 243 at an average depth of about thirty-five feet. It is known under the name of the “ Notch in the Mountain," and affords an opportune passage for the canal, which would otherwise, in order to pass it, have had to encoun- ter a heavy excavation. At the point where the canal enters the channel of the river, are found strong rapids, confined on one side by a high clay bank, and on the other by a rocky shore. To overcome the fall existing here, which is about 30 feet, it was necessary to drown the rapids by the erection of a large dam, and surmount the elevation by three locks. This dam backs the water as far as the “Black Rapids” -to which point, and indeed thence all the way to its source in the “Rideau Lake,” the channel of the river continues to be used. The Rideau, like other rivers in Canada, is a combination of rapids and long sheets of still water, alternately intervening, and to overcome which it is ever necessary to have recourse to locks and dams. There are fourteen rapids between Bytown and the Rideau Lake, which are destroyed by as many dams, and 20 locks of various lifts, amounting in all to 283 feet. The “Rideau Lake,” which is the proper summit of the canal, is a beautiful expanse of clear green water, 30 miles long and 12 broad, surrounded on all sides by bold, rocky and precipitous banks. The only interruptions which the navigation encounters across this lake are at “ Oliver's Ferry” and the “Rideau Narrows," where considerable extra expense was incurred to overcome the currents there created by the contraction of the waters. Continuing the use of the Rideau waters for the space of 45 miles on the summit level of the route, its course 244 RIDEAU AND OTTAWA CANAL. finally bends towards the “Cataraqui River,” which has an outlet in Lake Ontario near Kingston. An excavation of 10 feet for the distance of a mile and a half across the isthmus, existing between the “ Rideau” and “Mud” lakes, was necessary to effect this object. The latter lake is 3 1-2 feet below the level of the Rideau, and has a length of 12 miles, with an average breadth of 10, stud- ded all over with innumerable small islands, which give it quite a picturesque appearance. It is intended eventually to raise the waters to the level of the summit lake. Leaving this lake, the canal enters the “ Indian,” and thence, instead of making the long detour of the river, encounters a shallow cut, by which, in a more direct line, the distance is considerably shortened. Thence following the course of the “ Cataraqui” to within 55 miles of King- ston, a dam is met with, backing the waters as far as the last mentioned lake. The rapids connecting this with “ Davis' Lake,” on the right side of the river, are sur- mounted by dams and locks, so that the navigation, which was before hazardous, is now perfectly safe. Again, following the course of the “Cataraqui river” for the further distance of eight miles, and successively passing “Davis” and “Opinicon” lakes, together with their intervening rapids, surmounted as usual by a dam and lock, the tourist arrives at a point called “Jones' Falls,” 35 miles from Kingston. These falls descend 61 feet within the mile, and connect “Opinicon Lake” with “ Cranberry Marsh,” where the river holds its course through a narrow rocky ravine. This fall is overcome by a dam and six locks. Thence, passing three more smaller rapids, with their customary works, the line at 246 CALEDONIA SPRINGS. The only places of note between Kingston and Montreal are Gananoque, Brockville, Prescott, Williamsburg, Corn. wall, Lancaster, Coteau du Lac and Lachine; all small provincial towns, of which Brockville and Prescott* are the most important, with a mixed population, the trades. men and artisans being mostly English, Irish or Scotch, and the poorer classes native habitans or Canadians. The traveller, whether in pursuit of pleasure or health, while on his way from Kingston to Montreal or vice versa, whether he take the route by the Rideau and Ottawa canal, or the more direct one by the St. Lawrence, will do well to visit the CALEDONIA SPRINGS, which are located near the Grand river, in the Ottawa district, 70 miles westerly of Mon. treal, and 125, in a northeasterly direction, from Kingston. They may be approached from Cornwall, on the St. Law. * It was at Prescott, on the 12th Nov. 1838, (the year following the rebellion of the French population in the lower province,) that a band of brigands, chiefly Ameri- cans, about 180 in number, commanded by a refugee Pole named Van Shultz, crossed the St. Lawrence and effect. ed a landing, under cover of the night, at the Windmill, a stone edifice just below the town, of which they took possession. They were here kept in check by the provin- cial militia, until despatches could be sent to Brockville for troops and heavy artillery. On the morning of the 13th, a simultaneous attack, by land and water, was made upon the brigands in the wind mill, which resulted in the capture of all who survived the conflict. Van Shultz and his comrades were taken to Kingston, where himself and 5 of his officers were tried and executed, several were transported for life, and the remainder, through the clem- ency of the government, were pardoned and sent back to the United States. 248 BUFFALO TO MONTREAL. cases of dyspepsia, rheumatism, and in cutaneous diseases; but the traveller is shown certificates* of extraordinary cures performed by them in diseases of the kidney and liver, in jaundice, dropsy, &c. It is proper to remark, however, that pulmonary diseases are not benefitted by these waters. FROM BUFFALO TO MONTREAL, Via Lake Ontario, on the American side, 436 miles— Fare, $17,50. INTERMEDIATE DISTANCES. Miles. Miles. By rail road. Cross St. Lawrence From Buffalo to Ni. I to Prescott, U.C. 1 296 agara Falls,.... 22 Dickinson's Land'g 38 334 Lewiston,........ 7 29 By stage. By steamboat. Cornwall,. ....... 12 346 Fort Niagara, .... 7 36 By steamboat. Genesee river,.... 74 110 Coteau du Lac,... 41 387 Great Sodus Bay,. 35 145 By stage. Oswego,......... 28 173 | Cascades,........ 16 403 Sacket's Harbor,.. 40 213 By steamboat. Cape Vincent,.... 20 233 | Lachine,......... 24 427 Morristown,...... 50 282 By stage. Ogdensburgh, .... 12 295 Montreal,. ....... 9 436 The route from Buffalo to Oswego has already been de- scribed. (See p. 201 to 221.) * Dr. Robertson, a scientific man and an eminent phy. sician of Montreal, whose opinions being founded upon experimental knowledge are entitled to very great respect, has given his most unqualified assent to the efficacy and beneficial effects of these waters in dyspepsia, rheuma- tism, chlorosis, affections of the liver, the urinary organs, and some cutaneous diseases; as well as their renovating powers in invigorating the system enfeebled by the long protracted and injudicious use of mercury. SACKET'S HARBOR-OGDENSBURGH. 249 SACKET's HARBOR, 40 miles from Oswego. This was an important military and naval station during the last war. The Barracks are situate about 400 yards north. easterly of the village, on the shore. They are a solid range of stone buildings, and add much to the appearance of the place. Two forts erected during the war are now in ruins. On Navy Point, which forms the harbor, there is a large ship of war on the stocks; but which, probably, will never be finished. CAPE VINCENT, 20 miles. Kingston, in Upper Canada, is on the opposite side of the lake, 11 miles distant, with Grand Island intervening. Morristown, 50 miles. The river here is but a mile and a quarter wide, on the opposite side of which is the village of Brockville. OGDENSBURGH, which terminates the passage of the steamboat, is 12 miles farther, and is situated on the east side of the Oswegatchie river, at its confluence with the St. Lawrence. This is a thriving village, containing about 300 houses, and a population of about 3000 inhabi. tants. A military fortification, consisting of two stone buildings and a number of wooden barracks, was formerly erected here by the British government, but was ceded to the United States in 1796. Stages leave Ogdensburgh daily for Plattsburgh ; whence a steamboat can be taken on Lake Champlain for St. John's or Whitehall. Boats also leave Ogdensburgh frequently and descend the river as far as La Chine, 9 miles above Montreal, in 3 days. They are usually furnished with every necessary 250 RIVER ST. LAWRENCE. implement for their good management, and with skilful pilots. The latter are more particularly requisite, as the current of the St. Lawrence is generally very rapid, and obstructed by numerous shoals and islands, which, by an inexperienced navigator, could not without difficulty be avoided. The principal rapids are three in number—the Longue Sault, the Rapids of the Cedarg* and the Cas- cades of St. Louis. The first of these are 9 miles in length, and are usually passed in 20 minutes, which is at the rate of 27 miles an hour. The Rapids of the Cedars terminate about 3 miles from the Cascades, which, after a broken course of about 2 miles, pour their foaming waters into Lake St. Louis. Lake St. Francis, on the St. Lawrence, is 25 miles long, and its greatest breadth 15. The bor. ders of the lake are so low that they can scarcely be dis- tinguished in passing along its centre. At the northern extremity of Lake St. Francis is situated the Indian vil. lage of St. Regis, through which passes the boundary line between the Canadas and the United States. The usual route, however, is to cross the river at Og. densburgh to Prescott; whence the excursion to Montreal is by steamboat and stage alternately, as noticed in the table of distances at p. 248. * It was at this place that Gen. Amherst's brigade of 300 men, coming to attack Canada, were lost. The French at Montreal received the first intelligence of the invasion, by the dead bodies floating past the town. The pilot who conducted the first batteaux committed an er- ror by running into the wrong channel, and the other bat. teau following close, all were involved in the same de. struction. MONTREAL. 251 LACHINE, 9 miles from Montreal, is connected with the city by means of a canal. The stage route affords a fine view of the rapids between the two places, Nuns and He. ron Islands, and the Indian village of Caughnawaga. MONTREAL Is situated on the south side of the island of the same name, the length of which is 30 miles, its mean breadth 7, and its circumference about 70. The city extends along the St. Lawrence, about 2 miles in length and about half a mile in width. The buildings are mostly constructed of stone, and arranged on regularly disposed but narrow streets. A stone wall formerly encircled the city, which, by the sanction of the government, was some years ago totally demolished. Montreal is divided into the upper and lower towns. The latter of these contains the Hotel Dieu, founded in 1644, and under a superior and thirty nuns, whose occupation is to administer relief to the sick, who are received into that hospital. The French gov. ernment formerly contributed to the support of this insti. tution; but since the revolution, which occasioned the loss of its principal funds, then vested in Paris, its rea sources have been confined to the avails of some property in land. The upper town contains the Cathedral, the English Church, the Seminary, the Convent of Recollets, and that of the Sisters of Notre Dame. The general hospital, or Convent of Gray Sisters, is situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence, a little distance from the town, from which it is separated by a small rivulet. This institution was established in 1753, and is under the man. agement of a superior and 19 nuns. w2 MONTREAL TO QUEBEC. 253 The Mountain of Montreal, from which the city takes it:s name, rises about 2 1-2 miles distant. It is elevated 700 feet above the surface of the river, and extends from north to south 2 miles. This spot has already been se- lected for the residence of some private gentlemen, whose elegant white mansions appear beautiful in contrast with the surrounding foliage. The island of St. Helena, immediately opposite the city, is a delightful little spot, whence is had a fine view of Montreal, with its lofty mountain in the back ground, the settlement of Longueil, St. Lambert and La Prairie de la Madelaine, on the south side of the river, and the waters of the St. Lawrence dash- ing over the rocks of Lachine, and sweeping their course around a variety of islands. The principal public houses in the city are, Masonic Hall, in the north part; Goodenough's, St. Paul street; and Mansion House, do. FROM MONTREAL TO QUEBEC-180 miles. The following are the intermediate distances : Miles. Miles. Varennes,.......... 15 Three Rivers,..... 6 90 L'Assumption,..... 6 21 | St. Anne,.. 30 120 Berthier,.......... 24 45 | Porte Neuf,....... 25 145 Rivere du Loup,.... 24 69 Cape Sante,...... 5 150 Porte St. Francis,.. 15 84 | Quebec,.......... • 30 180 The St. Lawrence from Montreal to Quebec is navi- gated by a number of excellent steamboats, and the pas- sage between the two cities is delightful. A large major. ity of the inhabitants of Lower Canada are crowded to- gether near the shores of the St. Lawrence, and few in. terruptions of forest land intervene in the whole distance 254 VARENNES. between the two principal cities. The dwellings and cultivated grounds are so frequent and continuous that each side of the river, in fact, becomes almost an un- broken street, with groups of houses in the vicinity of the several churches, which are erected generally in sight of the passing steamboat, except on Lake St. Peter. The churches are from six to nine miles distant from each other, and upwards of twenty in number, forming, many of them, prominent objects to give embellishment and charm to the novel and otherwise very attractive scenery. All travellers sleep one night at least on board the steam- boat while journeying between the two cities; and it is recommended that they should arrange the hour of de- parture from Quebec, (which is always at low water,) so that they may view by day light that part of the river which had been before passed in the night. A journey to Quebec and back again, which a few years since was the labor of some weeks, may now be accomplished, by means of steamboats, in less than three days. The distance be- tween the two cities is 180 miles—fare $4. From Montreal, the boat first passes near the Fort on St. Helen's Island, and soon enters the rapids of St. Mary; in returning up which, steamboats are often drawn by cattle. Proceeding down the river, the villages of Longueil, Longue Pointe, and Vercheres, are successively passed before reaching Varennes, on the south side of the St. Lawrence, 15 miles from the city, which has become a place of very consid- erable resort, in consequence of the mineral springs in its vicinity. From the Varennes Springs Hotel, located in the village, is one of the most interesting views in North WILLIAM HENRY. 255 America, commanding in front the mountainous land on the north shore of the St. Lawrence; to the west, the city and island of Montreal, the island and fortification of St. Helen's, and the winding course of the river ; and on the east a most picturesque group of islands, with their varied channels ; while the rear presents the most fertile and highly cultivated district in Lower Canada, with the magnificent mountains of Chambly and Beloil in the dis- tance. The Hotel, as a building, is capacious and fur- nished in a style of superior neatness and elegance. The Springs are one mile from the village, and are ap- proached by a road on the bank of the St. Lawrence, forming a delightful promenade, where an extensive and commodious bath house has been erected. By an analy.. sis of the waters, they prove to be possessed of valuable medicinal qualities, and are free from substances which can be deemed deleterious. Varennes and its vicinity, therefore, present to those travelling in pursuit of health and pleasure, many attractions. Leaving Varennes, the boat passes the villages of Point aux Trembles, Contrecoeur, Repentigny, St. Sulpice, La Morage, Berthier and Machiche, before reaching the town of WILLIAM Henry, which is 40 miles from Montreal. It stands on the site of an old fort, built in 1665, on the right bank of the river Sorel, at its confluence with the St. Lawrence. The present town was commenced in 1785. It is regularly laid out with streets, crossing each other at right angles, leaving a space in the centre about 500 feet square. The number of dwellings does not exceed 200, and its population 2000. Near the town is a seat : 256 LAKE ST. PETER-THREE RIVERS. which was formerly the residence of the Governor Gene- ral of Canada, during the summer months. Opposite the town, the river Sorel is 250 yards broad, and is navigable for vessels of 150 tons, for twelve or fourteen miles. On the river, which unites the waters of Lake Champlain with the St. Lawrence, are two considerable forts, the one at St. Johns and the other at Chambly. Sorel was occupied in May, 1776, by a party of the American army, under General Thomas, on their retreat from Quebec. Lake St. Peter, some miles below the town of Sorel, is formed by an expansion of the river St. Lawrence to 15 or 20 miles in width, and is 21 in length. The waters of the lake have but little current, and are from 8 to 11 feet deep. At the upper end of the lake a variety of small islands are interposed, which are the only ones that oc- cur in the St. Lawrence till you reach the island of Or. leans, a distance of 117 miles. On the north side of this lake is the town of Three Rivers, at the mouth of the St. Maurice, which is divided by two small islands into three branches. This town was formerly the seat of the Colonial Government, and is now considered the third in importance in the Province. It contains about 400 houses, including a Ro- man Catholic and an Episcopal church, and a Convent of Ursulines—also the barracks formerly occupied by the governor, during the French regime. The number of in- habitants is estimated at 3000. Some miles up the St. Maurice are the celebrated falls of Shawinnegame, a beautiful cataract of about 100 feet descent. RICHELIEU KAPIDS. 257 Seven miles below Three Rivers, the Richelieu rapids commence. The river is compressed within less than half a mile in width, and the water moves with great ve- locity for three or four miles; but being deep and the cur. rent unbroken, except at the shores, the descent is made by steamboats without danger, except in the night, wherr a descent is never attempted. The scenery of the St. Lawrence is occasionally reliey. ed by the prospect of the distant mountains, the highest of which does not exceed 1000 feet, but rising in the back ground of the cultivated vales along the borders of the river, give an additional degree of beauty and novelty to many of its landscapes. The alternate variety of the waters of the St. Lawrence, now reposing in stillness on the bosom of an expanded lake, and now rushing with the rapidity of a cataract, added to the pleasing effect of the landscape scenery, afford an agreeable repast to the tour. ist, until he reaches the classic scenes of Quebec. Soon after leaving Cape Rouge, and the little village of St. Nicholas, near the mouth of the Chaudiere river, the tow- ers and citadel of this famous city open to view, situated on a rock of 345 feet in height, called Cape Diamond, from the gem-like quality of the chrystals which are found intermingled with the granite beneath its surface. In ap- proaching the city, you pass Sillery River and Cove, and Wolfe's Cove, where he landed his army to gain the heights of Abraham, about one and a half miles from Quebec. Point Levi appears on the right, a rocky preci. pice, covered with white dwellings, and commanding the citadel of Quebec from the opposite shore. 258 QUEBEC. QUEBEC* Is situated upon a high peninsular point of land, at the confluence of the rivers St. Lawrence and St. Charles, the junction of which forms a capacious and beautiful bay and harbor. From the New Exchange at the extremity of the point on the northeast, the limits of the city jurisdiction ex- tend in a direct line about northwest to a bend in the St. Charles river, near the General Hospital. On the St. Lawrence river the southwest point of the Banlieu is about equi-distant from the Exchange, the whole plat ap- proximating to a triangle, the longest side of which passes a short distance to the west of the Martello Towers, measuring one mile and five furlongs or 2860 yards from the St. Charles to the St. Lawrence. A straight line drawn from one river to the other, at the Barrier on the south and west, is rather more than a mile in length, and the whole wall is two miles and three quarters in circuit; but including the Citadel, the Esplan- ade, the different large gardens, and other vacant spaces, a considerable proportion of the interior area within the fortification remains unoccupied for buildings. The city and environs are thus subdivided : That part which is within the walls is called the Upper Town, and can be approached solely by five gates. On the eastern side of the Cape towards the St. Lawrence, there is only one avenue to enter it, by a circuitous steep hill, through * For a description of this place, the writer is princi- pally indebted to the “ Picture of Quebec,” published in that city. QUEBEC. 259 Prescott Gate, which is the chief thoroughfare for all the commercial business of the port, especially during the navigable season; and then Mountain street, as this route is named, presents the appearance of a crowded and ac. tive population. On the north of the city, and where the promontory has considerably declined in height, there are two entrances-Hope Gate, not far from the eastern ex- tremity of the rampart, and Palace Gate adjoining the Armory and the Artillery Barracks. These gates are on that side of the city which is washed by the St. Charles. From the land there are two avenues to the interior of the fortifications : that to the east is known as the St. Louis Gate, which conducts by a beautiful road to the Plains of Abraham ; the other is at the end of St. John street, and thence denominated St. John's Gate. This is the route through which the chief part of the country trade passes. The long street from the termination of the Banlieu on the south-west, upon the St. Lawrence, skirting the Cape round to the Wood Yard belonging to the government, including Mountain street to the Prescott Gate, and all the other shorter streets below the hill and the river, are generally denominated the Lower Town. The portion between the road outside of the Gate of St. Louis and that of St. John street, to the line of the Banlieu, is call- ed the suburbs of St. Louis. From St. John street northerly to the Cote St. Genevieve, and returning to the end of the Banlieu, all the buildings are included in the St. John suburbs; and the large district extending from the Wood Yard along by the foot of the hill to the wes- tern extremity of the Banlieu, and bounded on the north. 260 QUEBEC. west by the St. Charles river, bears the appellation of the suburbs of St. Roch. As travellers are generally restricted to time, they have often failed to gratify their curiosity for want of a direc- tory or guide, by which they might with the greatest fa- cility view the most important objects, and also from not having previously obtained a letter of introduction to some respectable citizen who would accompany them in their explorations. To remove these obstacles, the following methodical plan of an excursion through the city and the accompanying descriptions are given. They will be found to be accurate, and will save the tourist from in. numerable perplexities, to which he would otherwise be subject. Taking the Upper Town Market-House as the place of departure, the observer has on the west the ancient Monastery of the Jesuits, now used as the Barracks for the troops of the garrison. It is a capacious quadrangular edifice of 75 yards by 67, encircled by a wall which measures on the north the whole length of Fabrique street, and more than 200 yards on Anne street. The area enclosed, and which now is appropriated for the parades and exercise of the troops, was formerly an ele. gant garden. Fronting on the east side of Market-Place is the principal Roman Catholic Church, which is open nearly the whole hours of day-light. It is a massive unornamented and spacious stone building. From the vestibule, the body of the interior is subdivided into equal proportions. At the termination of the nave is the grand altar in the middle of the ellipse constituting the sanctum, the walls QUEBEC. 261 of which are ornamented with representations and fig- ures, commingled with various other graphical emblems. Among the pictures are the Conception—the Apostle Paul in his extatic vision—the Saviour ministered unto by an- gels—the flight of Joseph and Mary—the Redeemer and the cross—the nativity of Christ—the Saviour under the contumelious outrages of the soldiers—the day of Pente. cost—and the Holy Family. During the siege of Que. bec, in 1759, this church was set on fire by shells dis- charged from a battery on Point Levi, and all the paint- ings and ornaments consumed except the first above mentioned, which was afterwards found among the ruins. The avenue north of the church conducts the tourist to The Seminary, a capacious superstructure of stone, in the form of a parallelogram. It is encircled by a large garden, walled in, measuring in the whole about seven acres. This institution was established in 1663, and was originally designed for the education of ecclesiastics ; but this exclusive system was long since abandoned, and it is now open for the reception of all who comply with its regulations. Attached to the Seminary is a museum of natural curiosities; and on the left of the grand entrance from Market Place is the vestibule of the chapel, in which are a great variety of sacred paintings. From this the tourist can proceed to the church ; and thence to the Place d'Armes, where, on the east of the Pentagon, stood the Castle of St. Lewis, the former residence of the Governor, and which was destroyed by fire in the winter of 1834. On the south side, and nearly adjoin- ing, is the 262 QUEBEC. Court House, a plain neat building of stone, about 140 feet long, and as many broad. It stands where once stood a church belonging to the order of the Recollets, which was burnt in 1796. On the corner of Fort street, south of the site of the Castle of St. Lewis, is a large building used for public offices, the front room of which on the first story, con. tains the Museum of the “Society for promoting Liter. ature, Science, Arts and Historical Research in Upper Canada.” A visit to it will prove extremely interesting. Crossing the Place d'Armes to Des Carrieres street, the visitor will next inspect the Monument, erected in memory of Wolf and Montcalm. This consists of a base and a pillar, surmounted by a vig. nette of graphic delineation. The base is about 5 by 6 feet, and the whole height of the monument is 65 feet. It contains two Latin inscriptions. After viewing from the promenade at the exterior of the Governor's quarters the beauteous landscape diverging to the northeast, the visitor will return to St. Lewis street, where, after pass. ing the office of the Commissariat, he will turn by Parloir street, to the Ursuline Nunnery and Church. This nunnery and the land adjoining it occupy a space of about 7 acres, which is surrounded by a high barrier of stone. This institution was founded in 1639, and the edifice, which is of stone, is 2 stories high, 114 feet long, and about 40 broad. At the east projection is the chapel, about 100 feet long and 50 in breadth, the interior of which is highly decorated. The convent is neat and includes a superior, 42 assistants and 7 novices, the chief employment of whom is the tui- QUEBEC. 263 tion of a large number of girls in common knowledge and other qualifications. They are more rigid and retired than the inmates of any other conventual institution in Canada. Persons of distinction only are permitted to ex- amine the domestic departments; but the Chaplain, whose apartments are on the right of the entrance, per- mits strangers to examine the church on application to him. Among the paintings there exhibited, are the por- traits of some of the Popes—the Birth of Immanuel—the Saviour exhibiting his heart to the Religieuses—the Sa- viour taken down from the crossa cargo of Christians captured by the Algerines-Louis XIII. of France-and several devices taken from the scriptures. The altars are highly ornamented and imposing. Leaving the nunnery, the visitor will next proceed by Anne street, with the south wing of the barracks on his right, to the Presbyterian church. Passing its front he will leave the jail on the right, where he pursues his course to the Esplanade. If he has no citizen as a companion, and no other mode of visiting the fortification, he should turn up St. Ursule to St. Louis street, and at the military of- fices request from the adjutant general a card of admis- sion to walk round the interior of the Citadel. This stupendous fortress circumscribes the whole area on the highest part of Cape Diamond, and not only accommodates the garrison as a residence, parade, &c. but also includes all the materials of war. It per- fectly commands the city and river St. Lawrence; and is one of the best specimens of military architecture on the American continent. x2 264 QUEBEC. Having entered the grand western gate, where the vis- itor leaves his ticket with a soldier on guard, and examin. ed the edifice, he will first proceed round the course of the citadel to the flag staff and telegraph ; thence south- erly by the parapet bordering on the river to the machinery at the head of the rail-way, or inclined plane, which is 500 feet long, extending from the wharf to the cape, where its perpendicular elevation is 345 feet above the stream. This rail-way is used by the government alone, to convey stones and other articles of great weight and bulk, for the erection of the fortress. Having surveyed from the highest point the majestic scene in every diversified aspect of hill and dale, land and water, the visitor will follow the course of the wall on his left hand, until he returns to the same gate, and pursue his walk by it, over St. Louis gate along the Esplanade, until he arrives opposite the church of the Congreganistes, im- mediately below which is the national school house. Proceeding along St. John street, he will turn north of St. Stanislaus street, on the east side of which stands Trinity chapel, whence crossing Carleton street, he ar- rives at the artillery barracks and the armory—the latter of which may be inspected, if a resident of the city be in company. Opposite the armory is the anatomical room of the med- ical society. Thence walking up Palace street, on the right hand is St. Helen street, where is Mr. Chasseur's natural museum. Returning into Palace street, the vis. itor crosses obliquely above to Collins' Lane, in which stands on the left, the 66 QUEBEC. return to Palace street, and continue his progress to the gate, where, by passing the guard house and pursuing his walk easterly, he may accurately understand the nature of the defence which the city can make against external assault. The first house at which he arrives is distinguished as the former residence of the renowned Montcalm. There he may turn to the right, which will lead him to Couillard street, or he can continue his walk passing Hope Gate, until he arrives at the Look-out from the northeast plat- form of the battery. In the lower town, the only objects which merit notice, besides the inclined plane or rail-way to the Citadel, are the Exchange Reading Room, and the Quebec Library, which are always open for the admission of strangers, if regularly introduced, and are worthy of inspection. About 100 yards from the lower end of the rail-way, General MONTGOMERY and his aids with other men were killed on the morning of December 31, 1775, when pro- ceeding to the assault of Quebec. The place may be easily recognized, notwithstanding the alterations which have occurred. At that period a narrow path only was made between the foot of the hill and the river, so that vessels were fastened to the rock by large iron bolts, one of which still remains near the spot where the American General and his advanced party were discomfited. The wharves, houses, &c. all have been long since construct- ed. At the top of the small ascent on the street immedi- ately below, the small battery had been erected, near the plot where the southerly forge is now stationed. As Montgomery led on the attack, the British retreated be. QUEBEC. 267 fore him. In passing round Cape Diamond, the ice and projecting rocks rendered it necessary for the Americans to press forward in a narrow file, until they arrived at the block house and picket. The General was himself in front, and assisted with his own hands to cut down and pull up the picket. The roughness of the way had so lengthened his line of march, that he was obliged to wait for a force to come up before he could proceed. Having re-assembled about 200 men, he advanced boldly and rap- idly at their head to force the barrier. One or two of the enemy had by this time ventured to return to the battery, and seeing a match standing by one of the guns, touched it off, when the American force was within 40 paces of it. This single and accidental fire struck down Gen. Mont- gomery and his aids, Captain M'Pherson and Captain Cheesman. The remains of Montgomery were interred by a soldier of the name of Thompson within a wall that surrounded a powder magazine near the ramparts bounding on St. Lewis' gate ; and in 1818 were removed to New York, where they were deposited beneath a monument in front of St. Paul's church. The Plains of Abraham lie south and west of Quebec. The visitor, on leaving St. Louis gate, should turn up the stairs of the Glacis, continue his course under the citadel, and pursue a path to the right. At the termination of the enclosure, the bank is ascended to the Plains of Abraham, near the spot where Wolfe died. The large house at a distance in the front is erected on the site of a French re- doubt, which defended the ascent from Wolfe's cove, and was the primary object of assault and capture, after the 268 QUEBEC. top of the hill had been gained by the British troops. The precipice at the cove, from 150 to 200 feet in height, and full of projections of rocks and trees, seemed to be ren- dered almost impassable. General Wolfe, however, with unparalleled fortitude, led the way in the night, (Sept. 12, 1759,) through a narrow path winding obliquely up the hill, which, with the assistance of boughs and stumps, enabled him and his troops to gain the summit. Here, by day-light the next morning, they were formed in line of battle, in readiness to meet the enemy. General Montcalm, on receiving information that the British had possession of the heights, broke up his camp at Beaufort, crossed thc St. Charles river, and at about 10 o'clock in the morning commenced the attack. After a desperate struggle of about two hours, in which both commanders had been mortally wounded, the French gave way and left the field in possession of the victors. Wolfe fell at the critical moment that decided the vic- tory. He was wounded in the early part of the engage- ment by a bullet in his wrist—soon after by a ball which passed through his groin—and it was not until a third had pierced his breast, that he suffered himself to be carried from the field. “I die happy," was his exclamation, when in the arms of death he heard the joyful shouts of victory. The Martello Towers, consisting of four circular forts, are situated at the northern extremity of the Plains of Abraham, about half a mile in advance of the exterior grand wall of the fortifications. They are numbered from the river St. Lawrence to the General Hospital, and guard the approaches to the city on the south and west. FALLS OF MONTMORENCI. 269 They are nearly 40 feet in height, with a base diameter almost equal; and the exterior wall is of ample strength to resist a cannonade. The Falls OF MONTMORENCI are situated about 8 miles northeast of Quebec, on the river of the same name, near its junction with the St. Lawrence. These falls pour over a perpendicular precipice 240 feet in height, and may almost compare in beauty and grandeur with the cataract of Niagara. The effect from the summit of the cliff is awfully grand and sublime. The prodigious depth of the descent of the waters of this surprising fall; the brightness and volubili. ty of their course; the swiftness of their movement through the air ; and the loud and hollow noise emitted from the basin, swelling with incessant agitation from the weight of the dashing waters, forcibly combine to attract the attention, and to impress the mind of the spectator with sentiments of grandeur and elevation. The breadth of the fall is 100 feet; and the basin, which is bounded by steep cliffs, forms an angle of forty-five degrees. When viewed from the beach, the cataract is seen, with resplendent beauty, to flow down the gloomy precipice, the summit of which is crowded with woods. The diffu- sion of the stream, to the breadth of 1,500 feet, and the various small cascades produced by the inequalities of its rocky bed, on its way to the St. Lawrence, display a very singular and pleasing combination. Remains of entrenchments and fortifications erected during the French war are still to be seen near the falls. A battery occupied by Gen. Wolfe, in June, 1759, on the precipice north-east of the falls, is yet visible. The 270 FALLS OF MONTMORENCI. French occupied the opposite bank; and Wolfe attempt. ed to storm their works by fording the river below the falls and ascending the heights. Without forming in a regular manner, and without waiting for additional rein. forcements which were on their way from Point Levi, Wolfe's men rashly ascended the hill, eager for the onset, and were cut down by the French artillery and musquet- ry, and obliged to retreat. The English loss was about 500; while that of the French was trifling. A storm coming on, further attempts to dislodge the French were abandoned. The British afterwards ascended the river, and the action on the Plains of Abraham, which has already been noticed, took place in the month of Septem- ber following There are three points which afford the best views of the Falls. 1. From the upper window of the mill, whence the projecting leap is safely seen. 2. Having crossed the bridge, the visitor proceeds along the brow of the hill until he arrives nearly in front of the whole cat- aract; from this summit, the view, with the concomitant circumstances, inspire commingled emotions of awe, ter- ror and astonishment. From the same spot there is a lucid and beauteous prospect of Quebec, with its encir- cling scenery; and with an ordinary magnifying glass, the observer can discern all the prominent objects—the steeples, towers, fortifications, principal edifices, the ship- ping, the course of the St. Lawrence, until it is lost among the hills—Point Levi and its vicinity-the north side of the island of Orleans—the point of Angel Garden -and the shores of the river as far as Cape Tourment. 3. Hence the visitor descends the hill, and pursuing its LORETTE. 271 course to the right, he may ordinarily advance to the rock which interrupts the turbulence of the stream when discharged into the chasm. In the view from below, the most vivid impressions of this gorgeous cascade are pro- duced; and travellers who do not thus survey the falls, can form only a faint and incorrect idea of its apparently changing effect. At a considerable distance above the Falls, the chan- nel of the river is contracted between high vertical rocks, and the water rushes with proportionate velocity. In one part, at about half a mile from the bridge, cascades of three or four yards in depth are adjacent to two fine geological curiosities, familiarly denominated the Natural Steps, which appear to have been formed by the attrition of the stream, occasioned by the melting of the snows and the augmented rapidity of the flood. Many of these steps are so regular, that they almost develope the pro- cess of human art. The perpendicular attitude of the rocks on the east side-the tree-crowned summit-the uniformity of appearance, resembling an ancient castle wall in ruins—the precipices on the western bank—and the foaming noisy current, pourtray a romantic wildness, which is highly attractive. Observers are amply remu. nerated for their walk, as conjoined with this interesting object, they witness the continuous descent and the ac- celerating force and celerity with which the river is pro. pelled to the point, whence it is precipitated into the St. Lawrence. LORETTE, an Indian village, about 8 miles from the city, can be taken in the route to or from the falls of Montmorenci. It is built upon an elevated situation, 272 CHAUDIERE FALLS. · whence there is an extensively varied and agreeable land- scape, in many points similar to that from Cape Diamond, but also including some interesting novelties of outline. It exhibits a bold and beautiful view of Quebec and its suburbs, and in its extent it is bounded solely by the dis- tant southern mountains. The Indian inhabitants of the village retain many of the prominent characteristics of the aboriginal roamers of the forest, combined with vicious habits contracted by their proximity to a large sea-port, and their intercourse with its migratory population. At this village is a very charming view of the river St. Charles, tumbling and foaming over the rocks and ledges to a great depth. The rugged and perpendicularly ele. vated woody cliffs, in connection with the impetuous rush of the waters, although circumscribed in extent, and therefore affording no expanded prospect in immediate front, yet, as seen from the Saw-Mill, and from the bank and the bridge at the head of the dell, in its different po. sitions and aspects, constitute an object which, when contrasted with the more majestic cataracts of Montmo- renci and the Chaudiere, or recollected in combination with them, furnishes in memorial an addition to the va. rieties which those stupendous natural curiosities embody. The Chaudiere Falls can be approached by land or water. The former is generally preferred, the distance to the mouth of the Chaudiere being nine miles from Quebec. Thence visitors can cross at the ferry and take an indirect path to the west bank of the river, or diverge from the St. Lawrence some distance north of the Chau- diere, and arrive within a short walk of the falls on the eastern bank. The river at the cascade is much com- CHAUDIERE FALLS. 273 pressed, being only about 400 feet across; and the depth into the Pot, as it is usually termed, is about 135 feet. Many rocks divide the stream, precisely at the fall, into three chief currents, of which the westerly is the largest —these partially reunite before their broken and agitated waves are received into the basin; where each dashing against the other maintains a turbulent whirlpool. The form of the rocks forces a part of the waters into an ob. lique direction, advancing them beyond the line of the precipice, while the cavities in the rocks increase the foaming fury of the revolving waters in their descent, dis. playing globular figures of brilliant whiteness, which are richly contrasted with the encircling, dark and gloomy cliffs, while the ascending spray developes all the variety of the coloured cloudy arch, and enlivens the beauty of the landscape : the wild diversity of rocks, the foliage of the overhanging woods, the rapid motion, effulgent brightness and the deeply solemn sound of the cataracts, all combining to present a rich assemblage of objects highly attractive, especially when the visitor, emerging from the wood, is instantaneously surprised by the de- lightſul scene. Below, the view is greatly changed, and the falls produce an additional strong and vivid impres- sion. If strangers only view the falls from one side of the river, the prospect from the eastern shore is recom- mended as preferable. The Montmorenci and Chaudiere Falls, the village of Lorette and Lake St. Charles, together with the scenery of Orleans, a beautiful island six miles down the St. Law- rence, Beaufort and Point Levi, will always afford inter- esting excursions to the tourist at Quebec. 274 ST. LAWRENCE RIVER. The St. LAWRENCE BELOW QUEBEC.—Those who have not seen this part of this greatest of the navigable rivers in the world, can form but a very imperfect idea of its grandeur, and the magnificence of its scenery. Above the island of Orleans, the St. Lawrence is comparatively confined to a narrow channel passing through a level country, offering much sameness on the south shore, with the mountains on the north, too distant to produce much effect. The views on the great Lakes of the St. Law. rence in the Upper Province, stretching out of sight of land, differ little from those on any extended sea coast studded with islands, and bordered with towns and hab- itations. The St. Lawrence below the Island of Orleans, from many points on its northern banks, lays open to the view a hundred miles of a river varying from twenty to twenty- five miles in width, the whole course and coast of which, in this clear atmosphere, can be distinctly discerned. Beautiful islands covered with neat dwellings and culti- vated fields, contrast with those that are of bare rock, or covered with wood; the crowded settlements, the villages and distant highlands on the south shore, are opposed to the bold and lofty mountains of the north, crowned with the native forests, and impending over the margin of the river, while the valleys formed by the streams and tor. rents of these mountain regions, leave openings in which the village spires are discernible in front of the bare, rug- ged and stupendous ranges in the interior. In other pla. ces the settlements extend nearly to the tops of the mountains, presenting to the view neat dwellings, luxuri. ant harvests, and green fields, etched out on the face of QUEBEC TO MONTREAL. 277 sion of falls and rapids, near which is situated the trading port of Chicotimy. At this place there is an old church, built about two centuries ago by the Jesuits, who were active in civilizing the native Indians. The church is still kept in decent repair by the Indians, and is annu- ally visited by a missionary priest. These people are few in number and are not to be met with between this tra. ding post and the mouth of the river. A fine tract of country commences here, intersected by several rivers issuing from Lake St. John, distant abont sixty-seven miles farther to the westward. The little communication which is carried on with this lake is, by means of these rivers, in bark canoes and batteaux and flat bottomed boats of the country; but it is subject to much interrup- tion from the portage or carrying places necessary to avoid the numerous falls in them. The tide of emigration is directed in this quarter. It was in this river that the ships of the French squad- ron found a secure retreat, at the memorable siege of Quebec under Gen. Wolfe. At the mouth of the St. Lawrence, 360 miles below Quebec, the river is 100 miles wide. It here connects with the Gulf of St. Lawrence, 350 miles long and 150 wide, which communicates with the Atlantic by three different passages. FROM QUEBEC TO MONTREAL. In returning to Montreal, the traveller (as before re- marked) should, if practicable, take a boat at such an hour, as to give him a chance of viewing by day-light on 278 MONTREAL TO WHITEHALL. the river the scenery which, in descending, was passed in the night. The approach to Montreal in ascending the river is extremely beautiful. The mount behind the city clothed in a rich and unbroken foliage, the numerous adjacent country seats, the spires and edifices of the city, and the beautiful woody island in front, all conspire in presenting a rich and truly diversified landscape, and one that will not be easily effaced from the memory. (For a description of Montreal, see p. 251.] FROM MONTREAL* TO WHITEHALL Ls 178 miles, and the intervening distances are as fol. lows : Miles. Miles. By steamboat. Plattsburgh, ...... 15 75 From Montreal to Port Kent,....... 15 90 La Prairie,...... 7 Burlington,..... 11 101 By rail road. Split Rock,........ 12 113 St. Johns,......... 17 24 | Essex,........... 2 115 By steamboat. Basin Harbor,.... 12 127 Isle Aux Noix,..... 14 38 | Crown Point,..... 12 139 Rouse's Point,..... 10 48 | Ticonderoga, ..... 12 154 Chazy,............ 12 60 Whitehall, ....... 15 178 La Prairie, 7 miles from Montreal, is reached by steamboat. It is a village of between two and three hun. LDDC44 . . . . . . . . * At Montreal a stage can be taken for Danville, Vt. • distant 100 miles; thence to the Notch in the White Mountains, 28 miles; thence to Concord, N. H., 75 miles; and thence to Boston, 68 miles. The whole route is performed in four days. [For a description of the White Mountains, see « Route from Burling. ton to Boston.” LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 279 dred houses, and is the grand thoroughfare of trade be. tween Montreal and St. Johns. The LA PRAIRIE AND St. Johns Rail Road commences at this place and extends to St. Johns, the terminating point of steamboat navigation on Lake Champlain. The road, which is 17 miles long, is very straight, and over a remarkably level country; and the time usually employed in passing over it by steam is one hour. St. Johns, 17 miles. This place was an important post during the French and Revolutionary wars. In the latter it was taken after a gallant defence, by General Montgomery, as was also Chambly. It contains, at present, 150 houses and 1000 inhabitants. Though a place of considerable business, it possesses nothing in its appearance or accommodations inviting to a stran- ger. Steamboats leave St. Johns daily for Whitehall, and touch at all the intermediate places on the lake. Fare through, $5. LAKE CHAMPLAIN Forms part of the boundary line between the states of New-York and Vermont. Its length is 140 miles, and the greatest breadth 14. A great proportion of the lands on the margin of the lake are still unredeemed from a state of nature, and in some places, particularly at the north end, are low and marshy. After entering the terri. tories of the United States, the country is more popu. lous, and under a better state of improvement. The vil. lages seen from the lake all exhibit a cheerful and thriving appearance. The lake properly terminates at Mount In- dependence; whence to Whitehall, a distance of 23 280 PLATTSBURGH. miles, it assumes the appearance of a river, in which little more than room is left at any point to turn the boat. The history of Champlain involves many interesting events associated with the French and Revolutionary wars. During those periods several fortifications were constructed, which have since undergone some repairs, but are now in a state of decay. The ruins of the ancient fortress at Ticonderoga and Crown Point are still visible. Isle Aux Noix, 14 miles from St. Johns. This is a strong military and naval post possessed by the English. The works are generally in good preservation ; and are occupied by a small military corps. In the expedition against Canada in 1775, the troops under Generals Schuy- ler and Montgomery went down the lake in rafts and landed at this island, whence they proceeded to St. Johns. The other detachment, under General Arnold, marched by land through the present state of Maine (then a wilderness) to Quebec. . Rouse's Point, at the outlet of Lake Champlain, and 10 miles from the Isle Aux Noix, contains strong stone fortifications, erected by the United States, but which by the decision of the commissioners appointed to settle the boundary line between the American and British govern- ments, fell within the territories of the latter. The village of PlaTTSBURGH, 27 miles further, is hand. somely located at the mouth of the Saranac river, on the west side of Lake Champlain. It contains about 350 dwellings, besides the court house and prison for the county, a bank and several churches. The number of inhabitants is about 3000. This place is rendered cele. PLATTSBURGH. 281 brated by the brilliant victory of M'Donough and Ma- comb, over the British land and naval forces under Sir George Provost and Commodore Downie. The naval engagement took place in front of the village, which overlooks the extensive Bay of Plattsburgh for several miles. Here the American Commodore waited at anchor the arrival of the British fleet, which appeared passing Cumberland Head, about 8 in the morning of the 11th September, 1814. The first gun from the fleet was the signal for commencing the attack on land. Sir George Provost, with about 14,000 men, furiously assaulted the defences of the town, whilst the battle raged with in- creasing ardor between the fleets, then contending in full view of the respective armies. General Macomb, with his gallant little army, consisting of about 3000 men, mostly undisciplined, foiled the repeated assaults of the enemy, until the capture of the British fleet, after an ac- tion of two hours, obliged him to retire, with the loss of 2500 men, together with considerable baggage and am- munition. The American force on the lake consisted of 86 guns and 820 men; and was opposed to a force of 95 guns and 1050 men. Thus ended the affair at Platts- hurgh, no less honorable to American valor than disas. trous to the British arms. Commodore Downie was killed in the engagement. He was represented as a brave and skilful officer ; but was opposed to the method of at- tack on the American flotilla. A monument erected to the memory of Commodore Downie, in the church yard at Plattsburgh, contains the following inscription : , mbeta det a 282 PLATTSBURGH. “Sacred to the memory of GeorgE DOWNIE, Esq. a Post Captain in the Royal British Navy, who gloriously fell on board his B. M. S. the Confiance, while leading the vessels under his command to the attack of the Amer. ican flotilla at anchor in Cumberland Bay, off Plattsburgh, on the 11th September, 1814. To mark the spot where the remains of a gallant officer and sincere friend were honorably interred, this stone has been erected by his af. fectionate sister-in-lay Mary Downie.” The remains of a number of officers of both armies, who fell in the engagement, repose near the Commodore, with no monument to inform the stranger, and with no record but tradition to denote the spot of their interment. East of Downie are five graves, occurring in the follow. ing order: commencing south-Captain Copeland, an American officer-Lieut. Stansbury, of the American na. vy-Lieut. Runk, of the American army-Lieut. Gam. ble, of the American navy-and a British Sergeant. On the north side of Downie are the remains of the British Lt. Col. Wellington-on the south two British Lieuten- ants-on the west, Captain Purchase and four other offi. cers, three of whom were British. The traveller will find many objects of interest at Plattsburgh, which will warrant his continuance there for one or two days. A short distance from the village are the cantonment and breast works occupied by General Macomb and his troops during the last war. A mile north is shown the house possessed by Gen. Prevost as his head quarters during the siege in 1814; between which and the village, the marks of cannon shot on trees and other objects, are still visible. Farther onward, about 5 miles, PORT KENT-ADGATE'S FALLS. 283 on a hill overlooking the village of Beekmantown, is shown the spot where a sanguinary engagement took place be. tween the American and British troops, which resulted im the death of the British Col. Wellington, and several inen of both armies. Col. W. was killed in the centre of the road, about equidistant from the summit and foot of the hill. McDonough's Farm, granted by the legislature of Ver- mont, lies on Cumberland Head, nearly east of Platts. burgh; a ride to which, around the bay, in the warms season, is refreshing and delightful. Port KENT, 15 miles southerly from Plattsburgh by water, and 15 by land. It contains a few buildings and a wharf, at which passengers are landed from the steam boat. From this place may be seen, on the north, the Isle la Mott, 26 miles distant, Grand Island, the Two Sisters, Point la Roche, Cumberland Head, and Belcore and Macomb Islands; on the east, Stave, Providence and Hog Islands, Colchester Point, and the Green Moun. tains of Vermont; on the south, the village of Burlington, about 11 miles distant, with the high peak called the Camel's Rump; the whole forming a most delightful and pleasant landscape not excelled at any other point of the lake passage. Three miles west from Port Kent, are the celebrated ADGATE's Falls. They are situated on the river Au Sable, and take their name from a person residing there, who is the proprietor of some valuable mills in the vicinity. The water pours over a precipice about 80 feet in height, into a narrow channel of the river, the banks of which 284 BURLINGTON. consist of rock, rising perpendicularly to the height of from 60 to 100 feet. At what is called the High Bridge, about half a mile below the falls, the channel is narrowed to 27 feet. The height of the rocks here, which are perpendicular, is 93 feet, and the water 35 feet deep. Over this chasm a bridge was once erected, by throwing timbers across; but it has since decayed. The sensations produced on looking into this gulf are ter. rific, and the stoutest heart involuntarily shrinks from the contemplation. There is an indifferent road from the falls to the High Bridge, but, with this exception, the spot is yet a wilderness. About 4 miles in a westerly direction from this, is the 'thriving village of KEESEVILLE, which contains several manufactories, a bank, and a number of handsome resi. dences. It is a place of much enterprise, and is destined to become a large town. BURLINGTON* is situated on the east side of Lake Cham- plain, about 24 miles southeast of Plattsburgh. This is one of those beautiful villages which so often attract the notice of a stranger in the New England states. The ground rises with a moderate ascent from the lake, and presents a slope covered with handsome houses and trees. On the highest part of the eminence, which is 330 feet above the level of the lake, stands the University of Ver. mont. This summit commands a noble view of the lake and the adjacent country, for many miles. There are * Travellers designing to visit Boston, frequently take a stage at this place, on a route which is noticed in a sub- sequent part of this work. SPLIT ROCK-CROWN POINT: 285 here about 350 houses and stores, two banks, a court house, jail, and several churches. About 12 miles from Burlington, in the town of Willsborough, (N, Y.) is what is called the Split Rock. This curiosity is a part of a rocky prom- ontory projecting into the lake, on the west side, about 150 feet, and elevated above the level of the water about 12 feet. The part broken off contains about half an acre, covered with trees, and is separated from the main rock about 20 feet. The opposite sides exactly fit each other- the prominences in the one corresponding with the cavi. ties in the other. Through this fissure a line has been let down to the depth of 500 feet without finding bottom. Crown Point is situated 36 miles from Burlington, on the west side of Lake Champlain. It is formed by an ex- tensive deep bay on the west, skirted by a steep moun. tain, and on the north and east by the body of the lake. The elevated plain was first occupied by the French, in 1731, as a military position, and abandoned by them in 1759, when Gen. Amherst took possession of it, and built Fort Frederick. The ruins of this fort may still be traced, being situated directly opposite to Chimney Point on the south side of the bay. After the peace of 1763, it was occupied by a subaltern and a mere safe-guard, until it was burnt by accident some time previous to the Ameri- can revolution. In 1775 it fell into the hands of the Americans, and was afterwards evacuated by them, on the advance of Burgoyne, in 1776. A few years since a number of British guineas were found here, from the ac- cidental crumbling of the earth from the banks where they had been deposited. 286 TICONDEROGA-WHITEHALL. TICONDEROGA, which has already been noticed, (see p. 157,) is situated 15 miles south of Crown Point, and 24 miles north ar Whitehall. One mile from Ticonderoga is Mount INDEPENDENCE, on the east side of the lake; near the foot of which the remains of a small battery are still to be seen. What was called the Horse Shoe battery was on an elevation about a quarter of a mile in the rear. Nine miles farther, the lake is contracted into four narrow channels, bounded on the west and east by lofty mountains. South and East Bays are soon reached, each of about 5 miles in extent. The former was taken by Gen. Dies- kau and his army, in their route towards Fort Edward in 1755. From the latter bay to Whitehall, the passage is extremely narrow and of a serpentine course, and cannot be pursued in safety during a dark night. WHITEHALL,* terminates the steamboat navigation of Lake Champlain. It is an incorporated village situated on the west bank of Wood creek at its entrance into the lake, 73 miles north of Albany, and contains about 250 dwellings and stores, and 2000 inhabitants. The sit. uation of this place is low and unpleasant. It derives its principal consequence from the navigation of the lake, which is passable for sloops of 80 tons burthen, and from the Champlain canal, which here enters the lake. Bur- goyne occupied this place for a short time, preparatory to * A route from this place to Boston is noticed post, p. 306. CHAMPLAIN CANAL. 287 his march to Saratoga; and on the heights, over the harbor, are the remains of a battery and block house. THE CHAMPLAIN CANAL, Commencing at Whitehall, proceeds south 5 1-2 miles, when it enters Wood creek, a narrow sluggish stream, av. eraging 15 feet in depth. The creek is connected with the canal, and is rendered navigable for boats for about 6 1-2 miles to Fort Ann village. Thence the canal pro- ceeds through Fort Ann, Kingsbury and Fort Edward, to Fort Miller falls, below which the canal enters the Hudson river, which is made navigable 3 miles to Saratoga falls, where the canal is taken out of the river on the west side, and proceeds through Saratoga, Stillwater and Half- moon to Waterford, where it enters the Hudson, and by a branch canal enters the Mohawk, which it crosses by a dam and continuing 3-4 of a mile, joins the Erie canal in the town of Watervliet. The whole length of the Champlain canal is 63 miles. The cost to the state, ex- clusive of the feeder from Glen's Falls, was $875,000. The intervening distances on the canal between White- hall and Albany are as follows: Miles. Miles. Fort Ann,......... 12 Stillwater V....... 3 50 Sandy Hill, ....... 8 20 Mechanicsville,.... 3 53 Fort Edward,..... 2 22 | Waterford,........ 8 61 Fort Miller Falls,.. 8 30 | Watervliet, ....... 2 63 Saratoga Falls,.... 3 33 Gibbonsville, ...... 2 65 Schuylerville,...... 2 35 | Albany, .......... 6 71 Bemus' Heights,... 12 47 288 FORT ANN. Miles. Albany, ...... FROM WHITEHALL TO TROY AND ALBANY. BY STAGE AND RAIL ROAD. Stages leave Whitehall every morning on the arrival of the Champlain steamboats, and reach Saratoga Springs in time to dine; whence the rail road is taken for Troy or Albany immediately after dinner. The whole distance to the former place is 70 miles—to the latter 76, and the intermediate distances as follow : Miles. By stage. By rail road. From Whitehall to | Ballston Spa,*..... 7 46 Fort Ann,...... 11 Ballston Lake, .... 5 51 Sandy Hill, ....... 10 21 | Schenectady,...... 10 61 Fortville, ......... 7 28 | Buel's farm,....... 12 73 Wilton,........... 4 32 Saratoga Springs,.. 7 39 The route is in a southern direction near the line of the canal, until reaching Fort Ann; half a mile north of which place, at an elbow made by Wood creek, leaving barely room between the creek and a precipitous hill for the road, a severe engagement took place in 1777, be. tween a detachment of Burgoyne's troops and a party of Americans, under the command of Col. Sterry, who were on their retreat from Ticonderoga. The Americans were on the plain south of the hill, which served as a cover to the British. Their fire on Sterry's forces below was de- structive, and compelled him to abandon his position. The village of Fort Ann, 11 miles from Whitehall, contains 70 or 80 houses, and is loacated on the site of * For a description of the rail road route to Troy, see p. 127 to 132. FORTVILLE. 289 the old fort erected during the French war. It was at the north part of the village on the bank of the creek. Burgoyne's road, commencing about 2 miles south of the village, and pursuing nearly the course of the present road, is still visible. It was a causeway, formed by logs laid transversely, a labor which became necessary in con. veying his cannon and baggage waggons to Saratoga. Sandy Hill, 10 miles farther. (See p. 149.) FORTVILLE, a small village in the town of Moreau, is 7 miles farther. About half a mile west of the village, there is a large spring, which ebbs and flows regularly with the tide. It rises through a body of beautiful fine sand, containing yellow particles of a metalic substance, and has been found to answer every purpose of the purest emery. It partakes, also, so much of the character of quick sand, that every weighty substance placed in the spring, even the longest sticks of timber, are soon drawn beneath the suface. Falling, or even stepping into the fountain, therefore, is considered extremely dangerous. At low water, the surface is nearly dry; but at high tide, the water is seen boiling up at several points, covering an area of near a quarter of an acre. About a mile south of Fortville, the stage passes over an eminence, which affords a beautiful view of the Green Mountains of Vermont at the east and the intermediate country; three miles from which is Wilton church ; whence to Saratoga Springs is 7 miles. (For a descrip- tion of the latter place, together with the routes by rail road to Troy and Albany, see p. 119 to 144.) 290 NEW LEBANON. ROUTES TO BOSTON. These are so various, that the traveller may always be governed by his own taste and judgment in a selection. The route from Albany has been chosen by many on ac- count of enjoying in the excursion a visit to the Lebanon Springs, and several of the populous and wealthy towns in the interior of Massachusetts; while others have prefer- red a course which should embrace the rich mountain scenery of Vermont and New Hampshire, commencing their excursions either at Saratoga Springs, Whitehall or Burlington. We therefore subjoin a description of the different routes. Miles. 2 79 34 FROM ALBANY TO BOSTON, Via New Lebanon–167 miles. The intermediate distances are as follow : Miles. By stage. Hadley,........ Schodack, ....... 5 Belchertown,.... 10 89 Nassau, ......... 12 12 17 17 | Ware,........ 9 98 New Lebanon,.... 8 25 | Brookfield,...... 8 106 Pittsfield, ........ Spencer,........ 7 113 Dalton,.......... 40 | Leicester,........ 5 118 Peru,............ 7 47 Worcester,....... 6 124 Worthington,..... 8 55 | By rail road. Chesterfield,...... 9 64 Boston,..........43 167 Northampton,.... 13 77 Albany, (see p. 116.) New LEBANON, is a pleasant village in the town of Canaan, N. Y. bordering on Pittsfield, Mass. and is 25 miles from Albany. It contains a mineral spring of con- siderable importance, which is much frequented in the summer months by invalids. It is principally used for O noso E PITTSFIELD: 297 • the purpose of bathing; but is much inferior to the Sara- toga waters either as a medicine or beverage. The foun. tain issues from the side of a high hill, in great abundance, discharging at the rate of 18 barrels per minute; and is used as a feeder for several mills. The water is remark- ably pure and soft, and is perfectly tasteless and inodor- ous. Gas, in considerable quantities, eseapes from the pebbles and sand, and keeps the water in constant mo. tion. It contains small quantities of muriate of lime, mu- riate of soda, sulphate of lime, and carbonate of lime ;- and its temperature is 73 degrees of Fahrenheit. Convenient bathing houses are kept in readiness at all times for the accommodation of strangers; and there are a number of boarding establishments which, at different rates, afford proportionate fare. Among these, the Nav. arino Hotel is a spacious and well furnished establishment, calculated to accommodate from 100 to 150 guests. Near the spring is what is called the Shakers' Village, containing a number of neat plain buildings, generally painted yellow. The property of this society is held in common; and they are said to possess nearly 3000 acres of fertile land. Besides agricultural pursuits, they carry on several branches of manufactures, which are distin- guished by excellence of workmanship. The singular regulations and ceremonies of these people, constitute an object of attention to tourists. Nine miles from New Lebanon is the village of PITTSFIELD, rendered elegant from its local situation, and from the neatness of its buildings. The village con. tains from 150 to 200 houses, a bank, a medical college 292 NORTHAMPTON_MOUNT HOLYOKE. containing one of the best anatomical museums in the U. States, an academy and several stores. Here are annual. ly held the cattle show and fair of the celebrated Berk- shire Agricultural Society, which has been incorporated by act of the legislature; and which has done more to- wards improving the condition of agriculture than any other institution of the kind in the union. The show and fair, which occupy two days, never fail to impart an unu- sual degree of interest, and are always attended by im. mense crowds of citizens. NORTHAMPTON is 43 miles from Pittsfield, and is one of the finest towns in New-England. It is situated a mile and a half west of Connecticut river, and was settled as early as the year 1654. It contains 2 academies, several churches, a bank, court house, jail, and 350 dwellings, some of which are very elegant. Here are also several manufactories, and the place exhibits an unusual degree of enterprise and wealth. The Farmington and Hamp- shire canal commences at this place, and extends to New- Haven, Conn. 87 miles. Over the Connecticut river, there is a substantial bridge, 1080 feet long, resting on 6 stone piers. Mount Holyoke, in the vicinity of Northampton, is much frequented by tourists. It is on the cast side of the river, nearly opposite the town. The height of the moun- tain above the level of the river is 1070 feet. In conse- quence of the resort to this place, which has not been less than from 2000 to 5000 annually, two buildings have been erected on its summit for the purpose of accommo- dating visitors with refreshments. The beautiful and ex- tensive prospect afforded from the top of the mountain, AADLEY. 293 will amply compensate the labor and difficulty of the as. cent. The view embraces eminences 160 miles apart, with several beautiful villages and a rich and fertile country intervening, and is said to be unrivalled in the eastern states: • HADLEY, 2 miles from Northampton, is one of the oldest towns in the state. It was the head quarters of the army employed for the defence of the towns on the Connecticut river, in the war with Philip in 1675–6; and was, for a long time, the place of residence of the two regicides or judges, Whalley and Goffe, in the time of Charles II. On the town being attacked by the Indians during this war, a stranger, venerable in appearance, and differing in his apparel from the rest of the inhabitants, suddenly pre- sented himself at the head of the colonial troops, and en- couraged them by his advice and example to perseverance in defending the place. To his experience in military tactics and courage, in a great measure, was a defeat of the Indians attributable. When they retreated, the stranger disappeared; and in those times of superstition it was verily believed by many that he was the guardian angel of the place. But he was no other than Col. Goffe, who seeing the village in danger, left his concealment to unite with its inhabitants in a vigorous defence. In connection with the history of this place, the follow- ing biographical sketch of Goffe, Whaley and Dixwell will prove interesting : On the restoration of the English monarch, Charles II. in 1660, several of the judges who sat on the trial of Charles I. were seized, condemned and executed. Others, foreseeing the result, escaped. Whalley and Goffe, two 296 WORCESTER. of musketry. This spot was soon surrounded by the end emy, and a constant fire poured upon it in all directions. But the well directed shots of the besieged kept the In. dians at a considerable distance. Various devices were used by the latter for burning the building; but their plans were thwarted by the whites, aided by a plentiful shower of rain. The attack continued for three days; when the appearance of a body of troops from Lancaster induced the Indians to seek their own safety in a precipi. tate retreat. All the buildings in the vilage except the one fortified, were destroyed. Only one of the inhabit. ants, however, was killed ; while the loss of the Indians was 80. LEICESTER, 12 miles. The village contains an acad- emy, 3 churches and about 80 dwellings. The principal employment of the inhabitants is the manufacture of cot. ton and woollen cards ; of which a very large amount is annually made. WORCESTER, (6 miles,) is one of the oldest and most important towns in the state. It contains from four to five hundred houses, generally well built, a bank, a court house, jail, and several public buildings. A newspaper which was commenced by Isaiah Thomas some time pre- vious to the revolutionary war, is still published here, and is one of the oldest papers in the Union. Mr. Thomas was the author of an elaborate history of the art of print. ing, and continued to reside here until his decease, a few years since. He erected in the village, at a very consid- erable expense, a handsome building, for the reception of the library and cabinet of the American Antiquarian So- ciety, of which he was president. The library consists BOSTON AND WORCESTER RAIL ROAD. 297 of about 6000 volumes, many of them of great antiquity, and the cabinet is also very valuable. The BLACKSTONE CANAL commences at this place, and extends to Providence, R. I. Length, 45 milcs—expense rising of $500,000. A rail road also extends from this place to Norwich, Conn, on the Thames river, noticed hereafter,-length 59 miles. The BOSTON AND WORCESTER RAIL ROAD, after leaving Worcester, crosses the Blackstone river, through the val. ley of which it passes for some distance, until striking a ridge of slate rock, the cut through which is 37 feet deep for a distance of 1500 feet; thence descending at the rato of 30 feet to the mile over a rough country, it enters the valley of Long Pond, which is passed on a high embank- ment, until reaching Cutler's Peak; whence the valley of Elizabeth river is pursued to the town of Westborough; where, passing the Westborough Swamp, the head of the Concord river, the valley of the latter stream is taken until reaching the direction of Natic Pund, the south end of which is doubled by a strong curve. Ascending at the rate of 30 feet to the mile, the line soon enters Natic, which it leaves by a rock excavation of 20 feet, and pas. ses the south end of Morse's Pond on an embankment 47 feet high and 700 feet long. Following for some dis- tance a parallel line with the central turnpike, the road crosses the Worcester turnpike and reaches a pond half a mile long, the waters of which were originally 7 feet above the grade line. From this point there is an exca. vation through granite 31 feet deep and 500 feet long. Passing the town of Needham, there is a succession of 298 FROM ALBANY TO BOSTON. heavy embankments and excavations, until reaching Charles river, which is crossed on a bridge 120 feet long, composed of a single span. Proceeding down the valley of the river, the line passes Newtown in going two miles, and reaches Boston in going 8 miles farther-terminating not far from the foot of the common. Worcester is 456 feet above Boston, but the greatest descent in any one place is 30 feet to the mile. The en. tire length of the road is 43 1-4 miles, and the time em. ployed in passing from one place to the other by steam, is from 2 1-2 to 3 hours. Boston. (See subsequent pages.) 112 FROM ALBANY TO BOSTON, Via Springfield, Mass.-177 miles. INTERMEDIATE DISTANCES. Miles. Miles. By stage. By rail road. Greenbush,...... 1 Wilbraham,...... 7 87 Nassau,......... 11 12 Palmer,......... 8 95 Canaan, ........ 11 33 | Warren, ........ 11 106 Stockbridge,... 43 | W. Brookfield,... 3 109 Lce,.......... 47 | S. Brookfield,.... 3 3 Becket,....... 10 57 Charlton, ....... 9 121 Westfield,..... 20 77 | S. Leicester ..... 4 125 Springfield,...... 13 80 Worcester, ...... 9 134 | Boston,......... 43 177 Canaan, N. Y. 33 miles from Albany, is a small vil- lage, containing a shaker settlement. West STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. 10 miles farther, is a pleas- ant village on the banks of the Housatonic river, which af. fords facilities for several manufacturing establishments; among which are a number for the dressing of marble, of which the town contains an abundant supply. The vil. Bod SPRINGFIELD. 299 lage is the terminating point of the Hudson and Berk- shire rail road, noticed at p. 115. A rail road is also in progress from Springfield to the state line near this place, and one from Bridgeport, Conn. on the Long Island Sound, to connect with the Hudson and Berkshire road, already noticed. The remaining part of the stage route is through an agricultural district, until reaching West SPRINGFIELD, a pleasant village on the west bank of the Connecticut river, over which a bridge is constructed, connecting the place with SPRINGFIELD, on the opposite side. This is a large, flourishing and handsome village. The houses are prin- cipally located at the foot of a hill ; on the west side of which are several elegant residences, and on the summit a U. S. arsenal. The village contains a court house, jail, bank, five churches, and several manufactories. The buildings composing the arsenal on the heights, occupy a large square, and are surrounded by a high wall. They are mostly built of brick and present a magnificent appearance. About 16,000 muskets are manufactured here annually. The water works employed for the pur. pose are on Mill river, a mile south of the arsenal. Chicapee, an important manufacturing village, con- taining 1400 inhabitants, is within the precincts of the town. Springfield became the theatre of savage barbarity dur- ing Philip’s war in 1675. The towns still further up the river had, for some time previous, suffered severely from repeated Indian incursions. But the Springfield tribe had thus far remained quiet; and it was not till the month of AA 2 300 SPRINGFIELD. October of this year, that Philip could succeed by his ar. tifices to enlist them in his favor. On the night of the 4th, it was ascertained by means of a friendly Indian, that 300 of the tribe had suddenly and secretly assembled at a fort on Long Hill, about a mile below the village. This intelligence produced much consternation among the inhabitants; and they immediately repaired to their fortified houses. No disturbance, however, occurring in the night, hopes were entertained that hostillties were not intended on the part of the Indians. Lieut. Cooper, the commandant of the place, and another, accordingly resolved on repairing to the fort, for the purpose of dis. sipating the fears that still existed among the inhabitants. Having reached the small stream at the lower part of the village, Cooper and his companions were shot by Indians who were concealed in the woods. This seemed to be a signal for attack; as the whole body immediately rushed into the town with a horrid yell, and set fire to the unfor. tified dwellings and barns. The whole were soon enve. loped in flames and consumed. During this period, a fire was kept up from the fortified houses upon the In. dians, and several killed; but it was not till they had de- stroyed 32 dwellings and nearly as many barns, and plundered every thing within their reach, that they with. drew. A brick house standing at the time of this catas. trophe, is still in tolerable preservation. During the rebellion of Shays, in 1786, the armory at this place was attacked by him ; but he was repulsed with the loss of a few men, and his followers subsequently dispersed. WALPOLE. 303 ance of rapids rather than a cataract. Over the greatest descent, where the water is compressed by ledges of rocks to a very narrow space, a handsome toll bridge is erected, fifty feet in height, from which the water is seen rushing through the pass with great rapidity, and dashing upon the rocks in the wildest disorder-present- ing a scene truly sublime and interesting. A short distance below the falls are two rocks contain. ing specimens of Indian workmanship. On one of the rocks are the indistinct traces of a number of human fa. ces, represented by marks in the stone, and probably in. tended as a memorial of their deceased friends or chief. tains. That this place was once the haunt of our savago predecessors, is evident from the arrow points and bits of their earthen pots and fragments of other utensils which may be found in a short walk over the adjacent fields.* On the New Hampshire side is a chain of lofty moun. tains, which leave but a narrow passage between their base and the river. Around one of these impending bar. riers the road winds its course to the pleasant village of WalPole, which contains about 100 houses, including some very handsome mansions. This place was the scene of many savagc incursions during the French war. It was once in the entire possession of the Indians, and re- taken from them by Col. Bellows, who made the first * From Bellows Falls, stages can be taken every day for Concord, N. H. and for Hartford, Conn. On the lat- ter route, the course is generally near the bank of the Connecticut river, and through a most delightful country, interspersed with several elegant villages and country seats. LEXINGTON. 305 ton of the British troops, 8 or 900 strong, it was found that the militia of the town, to the number of 70, were in arms. Major Pitcairn, who led the British van, ordered the “rebels” to disperse. Some scattering guns were fired, which were followed by a general discharge, and continued till the militia disappeared. Eight men were killed and several wounded.* The detachment then proceeded to Concord, a part of which took possession of two bridges beyond the town, while the remainder destroyed the military stores. A number of militia, who had collected in the vicinity, but with orders not to give the first fire, attempted to pass one of the bridges in the character of travellers. They were fired on, and two men killed. The fire was return. ed and a skirmish ensued, which resulted in the discom. fiture of the regulars, and a precipitate retreat. Skirmish. ing continued during the day, and though the British re. ceived reinforcements, they were harrassed in their re. treat to Bunker's Hill, where they remained secure under the protection of their ships of war. The loss of the British, during this day, in killed, wounded and prisoners, was 273; while that of the pro- vincialists did not exceed 90. The blow thus struck was the precursor of more im. portant events, and was soon followed by the battle of Breed's or (as it is generally denominated) Bunker's Hill ; which is noticed in subsequent pages. * A handsome monument now marks the spot where this action was fought, beneath which are interred the remains of the Americans who were slain. 306 CAMBRIDGE. CAMBRIDGE is 7 miles from Lexington. It is a large and handsome town, but derives its importance from Har. vard University, which is located here, and is one of the oldest and most celebrated literary institutions in the United States. It takes its name from the Rev. John Harvard, who died in 1638, leaving to the institution a legacy of 7791. 178. 2d. sterling. The edifices belonging to the University are Harvard, Massachusetts, Hollis, Stoughton, Holworthy and University Halls, Holden Chapel, a stone building and 3 College houses, besides that for the President. These buildings are all situated in a spacious square, and are handsomely shaded with a variety of trees. The amount of property belonging to the institution, it is said, falls little short of $600,000. It contains an extensive philosophical apparatus, and a libra. ry of about 25,000 volumes. Cambridge contains three handsome villages, a court house, jail, state arsenal, sev- eral houses for public worship, and about 5000 inhabitants. Two miles from Cambridge is the city of Boston. The two places are connected by a bridge 3846 feet long and 40 wide, with a causeway of 3344 feet. The cost of the whole was $76,700. [For a description of Boston, see subsequent pages.] WHITEHALL TO BOSTON. 307 FROM WHITEHALL TO BOSTON-178 miles. A stage leaves Whitehall daily, (Sundays excepted,) passing through the villages of Castleton and Rutland, connecting at Chester with the route from Saratoga Springs, and reaches Boston the third day. FAIRHAVEN, 9 miles from Whitehall, contains several mills and manufactories of iron, and about 50 houses. CASTLETON, 5 miles farther, is a handsome village of about 120 houses, and contains a medical college and classical seminary, the latter located on an eminence south of the village, and commanding an extensive view of a rich and beautiful country. It is 160 feet in length and 40 in breadth, with projections in the centre and ends of 46 and 55 feet, and is 3 stories high, exclusive of a basement. To the building is attached a play ground of about 6 acres, a part of which is to be devoted to a gar- den. The course of instruction in this institution, which is liberally patronized, corresponds with that of the most favored seminaries of learning in the country. About half a mile north of the village, at the junction of the Hubbardton with the main road, are slight remains of a fort and breast work, which were occupied during the revolutionary war; two miles north of which the Hubbardton road passes over the ground where a severe action was fought between a detachment of Burgoyne's army and a body of American troops. The latter com. posed the rear guard of the Americans which evacuated Ticonderoga in July, 1777, and were commanded by Col. Warner. They were about 1000 strong, and were over. taken by a force of nearly the same number under Gen. BB 308 RUTLAND-CHESTER. Frazer. A long, severe and obstinate conflict ensued ; when the arrival of Gen. Reidsell, with his division of Germans, compelled the Americans to give way in all di- rections. The British loss was stated by Gen. Burgoyne at 35 killed and 144 wounded ; and the American loss was estimated by Gen. St. Clair at 50 killed and wound. ed. It is generally supposed that the loss of both armies was much greater. The Americans retreated to the south, and took part in the Bennington battle on the 16th of August, and in the capture of Burgoyne at Saratoga in October fol- lowing. RUTLAND, 10 miles from Castleton, is the capital of Rutland county. It is situated 3 miles west of the Green Mountains, in view of Killington Peake, and for beauty of local situation is not surpassed by any village in the northern states. It contains about 200 houses, three churches, a bank, court house and jail. Ten miles from Rutland, in the town of Shrewsbury, the road reaches the foot of the Green Mountains, which are crossed in travelling 12 miles ſarther. No part of the passage is precipitous; though the road is less pleasant than that leading from Manchester. (See p. 302.) CHESTER is 40 miles from Rutland, whence the route to Boston is the same as that noticed at page 302. BURLINGTON TO BOSTON. 311 in the rich and diversified prospects afforded from moun. tain summits. At Windsor the route crosses the Connecticut river into New Hampshire, and proceeds through a handsome country, occasionally interspersed with a pleasant village, to Boston. FROM BURLINGTON TO BOSTON, (By way of the White Mountains and Concord, New- Hampshire-275 miles. * The intermediate distances on this route are as follow: Miles. Miles. By stage. Union Bridge,..... 7 181 Montpelier, ....... 38 Winnepiseogee Littleton, N. H... 40 78 Bridge, .. ..... 4 185 E. A. Crawford's.. 18 96 Concord, ... 17 202 Notch of the White Hookset, ......... 8 210 Mountains,..... 5 101 | Amoskeag,....... 7 217 Notch House,..... 2 103 | Piscataqua,....... 2 219 Crawford's Farm,. 6 109 | Merrimack, ...... 10 229 Bartlett, ......... 7 116 By rail road. Conway,......... 10 126 | Nashua, ......... 6 235 Six Mile Pond,.... 11 137 | Tyngsborough,.... 8 243 Centre Harbor,.... 24 161 | Lowell,.......... 7 250 Guildford,........ 13 174 | Boston,.......... 25 275 * Strangers designing to proceed directly to Boston from Burlington, via Concord, N. H. without visiting the White Mountains, continue on the route from Montpelier to Randolph, as noticed at p. 309, and thence to Han. over, 25 miles, and to Concord 55 miles farther. (The route from the latter place to Boston is noticed at p. 322.) Hanover is located on a handsome plain, half a mile from the Connecticut river, and contains the buildings of Dart. mouth college and about 100 houses. The college de. rives its name from William, Earl of Dartmouth, one of its principal benefactors. It was founded in 1769, by the BB2 312 WHITE MOUNTAINS. A stage can be taken at Burlington daily for Montpe- lier, Vt., distant 38 miles, where it is recommended to travellers to proceed to Littleton, N. H. 40 miles east of Montpelier, whence a stage passes three times a week through the Notch of the White Mountains to Conway; and thence to Portland, (Maine,) three times a week. From Littleton to Ethan A. Crawford's at the foot of the mountains, 18 miles, about half the distance is through a cultivated country; but the remaining part is through an extensive, and, but for the road, an impenetrable forest. The first view of the White Mountains, as distinguish. ed from the multitude of peaks and summits which meet the eye in every direction, is obtained a short distance from Littleton; but Mount Washington is not seen till arriving near Crawford's. The first view of these moun. tains is magnificent, and as they are approached, they be- come more and more so, until the bare bleak summit of Mount Washington, rising far above the immense piles which surround it, strike the traveller with awe and as- tonishment. But the emotions which one receives from the grand and majestic scenery which surrounds him here, are utterly beyond the power of description. There is no single object upon which the eye rests and which the mind may grasp ; but the vast and multiplied features of the landscape actually bewilder while they delight. These mountains are the loftiest in North America east late Doct. Eleazer Wheelock, and is in a prosperous con- dition. A medical institution is connected with the col. lege, and is accommodated with a brick edifice, contain- ing besides rooms for students, a laboratory, anatomical museum, mineralogical cabinet, library and lecture rooms. 314 WHITE MOUNTAINS. in width, covered with stinted trees, chiefly hemlock and spruce. Above the upper edge of this zone, which is about half a mile from the top, trees and shrubs disappear. The summit is composed chiefly of bare rocks, partly in large masses, and partly broken into small pieces. The view from the top is exceedingly picturesque and magnificent. Although it is not so extensive as that from the summit of Mount Washington, yet owing to the more advantageous situation of Lafayette, being more central as it respects this mountainous region, it is not in. ferior to either in beauty or grandeur. The view to the northeast, east, south and southwest, is one grand pano- rama of mountain scenery, presenting more than 50 sum. mits, which when viewed from this elevation do not ap- pear to differ greatly in height. Some of these moun. tains are covered with verdure to the top, while the sum. mits of others are composed of naked rocks; and down the sides of many of them may be seen slides or aralanches of earth, rocks and trees, more or less extensive, which serve to diversify the scene. The only appearance of cultivation in this whole compass is confined to a few farms seen in a direction west of south, on the road to Plymouth, extending along the Pemigewasset branch of the Merrimack. To the west is seen the territory wa- tered by the Connecticut and the Ammonoosuck. At a place in the road through the Franconia Notch where the path up the mountain commences, is exhibited to the view of the traveller, on the mountain opposite to Lafayette, the Profile or the Old Man of the Mountain, a singular lusus nature, and a remarkable curiosity. It is situated on the brow of the peak or precipice, which rises WHITE MOUNTAINS. 315 almost perpendicularly from the surface of a small lake, directly in front to the height (as estimated) of from 600 to 1000 feet. The front of this precipice is formed of solid rock, but as viewed from the point where the profile is seen, the whole of it appears to be covered with trees and vegetation, except about space enough for a side view of the Old Man's bust. All the principal features of the human face, as seen in a profile, are formed with surprising exactness. The little lake at the bottom of the precipice, is about half a mile in length, and is one of the sources of the Pemigewasset river. Half a mile to the north of this there is another lake, surrounded with ro- mantic scenery, nearly a mile in length, and more than half a mile in breadth. This is one of the sources of the southern branch of the Ammonoosuck, which flows into the Connecticut. These lakes are both situated in the Notch, very near the road, and near the point where the steep ascent of Mount Lafayette commences. The northern lake is 900 feet above the site of the Franconia iron works, and the highest point in the road through the Notch is 1028 feet above the same level. Other curiosi- ties in this vicinity are the Basin and the Pulpit. A portion of the Gap, including the Notch in the White Mountains, which is the most sublime and interesting, is about 5 or 6 miles in length. It is composed of a double barrier of mountains, rising very abruptly from both sides of the wild roaring river Saco, which frequently washes the feet of both barriers. Sometimes there is not room for a single carriage to pass between the stream and the mountains, and the road is cut into the mountain itself. This double barrier rises on each side to the height of 318 WHITE MOUNTAINS. sides of many of the elevated mountains; and the aston. ishing effects of this extraordinary inundation are also witnessed in the great enlargement of the channels of the streams which rise in these clusters of mountains. This is the fact especially with regard to the channel of the principal branch of the Ammonoosuck, which rises near the summit of Mount Washington. The camp which was built by Mr. Crawford for the accommodation of visitors over night, two miles and a quarter from the summit of Mount Washington was sit- uated near this branch, and was carried away by the swelling of the stream. A small camp has been erected in its place, but it is of little use, and affords no accom- modations for lodging visitors over night. The distance from Crawford's house to the summit of Mount Washington, is nine miles. Through a part of this distance a carriage road is now made, leaving only 4 or 5 miles to be ascended on foot. The time usually oc. cupied in ascending the mountain, reckoning from the time of leaving Crawford's house to the time of returning to it again, is from ten to fourteen hours; and the short- est time in which the enterprise has been performed is about eight hours. Continuing the route through the Notch, the first house reached is the elder Crawford's, six miles from the “ Notch house," as that once occupied by the unfortunate Willey is called. Thence to Bartlett is seven miles. From this place to Conway, which is ten miles, there are more ap. pearances of cultivation, particularly in the little valley through which the road passes. The country around, however, is still wild and unimproved, displaying a suc- FRYEBURGH. 319 cession of bold and lofty mountain scenery. The pros- pect at the village of Conway is bounded on the north and west by high mountains, and the several summits of the White Mountains, rising at 30 miles distance, are more easily distinguished than at any point near them. Frysburgh, in Maine, is 10 miles from Conway, and is generally taken in the route to the White Mountains from the east. It is a considerable village, built upon a wide plain upon two broad streets, and has a respectable academy. It is chiefly interesting as being associated with the early history of our country. About a mile from the village is Lovell’s pond, the scene of the bloody fight in 1725 between a gallant band of Americans under Capt. Lovell, and the remnant of the Pequawket tribe under the renowned Chief Paugus. From Fryeburgh to Port- land, distant 52 miles, the road is over a dull and unin- teresting country ; but travellers designing to visit that place in connection with the White Mountains will find it the most direct route. (For a description of Portland, see the route from Boston to that place in subsequent pages.] CO 320 CONWAY TO CONCORD. FROM CONWAY TO CONCORD, N. H.-76 miles. Returning to Conway, and proceeding on the route to Concord, Six Mile Pond is passed in going 11 miles, and Centre Harbor is reached in going 24 miles farther. The road for 20 or 30 miles, is through a valley bordered with Poſty mountains, exhibiting only an occasional settlement. Centre Harbor is on Lake Winnipiseogee, the largest lake in the state. It is 23 miles long, and from 6 to 14 broad, and is remarkable for its beautiful and sublime scenery. It discharges its waters through the Winni. piseogee river into the Merrimack, 232 feet below the lake. From the top of Red Mountain, in Centre Harbor, 1500 feet high, and which is accessible for about two thirds of the way in a carriage, there is an extensive pros- pect. At the distance of 70 miles to the southwest may be seen Mount Monadnock; at the west, Kyarsage and Simson mountains; at the northwest, the Moose Hil- lock; at the north, the Sandwich mountains, with the Squam lake intervening ; at the southeast, the Winni. piseogee lake, with its numerous islands, bays, and the mountains which rise from its borders, including Ossip- pee on the northeast, Gunstock on the south, and a semi-circular mountain on the termination of the lake at the southeast; the whole forming a vast billowy ocean of lofty mountains, with their grand intersecting curves, ex. hibiting a complete panorama of the sublimest mountain scenery. SQUAM LAKE, which lies west of the mountain, is 10 miles long and 5 wide, and like the Winnipiseogee, is sprinkled with numerous small and beautiful islands. 1 miles E aarber. I orderedt I settle rom is and sozib the Time et bet ntre Her abour The finest of 2017. Ze zurnt these is a tres shores abood a s # me tortings the angle and Te amie neas 1 mioyment as well as amusement. The roote Sa Centre Izbor D Smerte mese passes threr ntry, காரான several for Coscoaps the mai i SerdashurThe lage is ponere samnosed T 975 toestem he Test bank of the Y e a tveg, 2nd zusams state boose, state pesa 191 18ise. Bent Ez rebe 4 or 5 printing size and start 300 toetung oras The state borse, kezei war he zatre si he same an elegant badre di seri panite. 100 mg, my a large hall on the first four, and be sente ma senza sentatives' ebamse on the rest. The widing . 7 rounded by a spacerua yaró, in s sneros, grand some wall. The state yen, a song wildung, her, distance from the state buzzer. The Merrimack river is marques sange vermore Concord to Chelmsford; whence tos, en kom nication is continued in the Middessous tenen ung, tensite." tharest Moce E ms, with the the line Fs, and ading les Juth, and the lake avy oceara curres * * Another route from Centre Harbor and pron ** be preferred by those who do not wist *, van 1916 is to take the steamboat which crosses K. ***** is here 25 miles wide,) 3 times a week to A. 11. B" whence stages are taken to Dover, N. H,4 m ** G* tant; and thence stages and rail roads to Busta, kers Portsmouth, N. H., Newbury port and Salem, Mass., miles farther. By this route, passengers leaving Cowo in the morning, reach Dover the same evening, and ton the next day at noon. st months atain, ji 11 prisenge, i LOWELL. 323 20,000. This place has been not inaptly termed the “ Manchester of America.” The whole amount of capi- tal invested is about $8,000,000, and the number of large mills in operation, 24. These mills are each about 157 feet long and 45 broad—of brick, 5 stories high, each sto- ry averaging from 10 to 13 feet high, thus giving opportu- nity for a free circulation of air. The aggregate number of spindles used is 90,000—looms, 3500. The whole num- ber of operatives employed is about 5000, of which 1200 are males, and 3800 females. The quantity of raw cotton used in these mills per annum exceeds 80,000,000 pounds or 20,000 bales. The number of yards of cotton goods of various qualities manufactured annually is about 27,000,- 000. Were the different pieces united, they would reach to the distance of 15,300 miles! In this estimate is in. cluded about 2,000,000 yards of coarse mixed cotton and woollen negro clothing, in the manufacture of which about 80,000 pounds of wool are used per annum. The quantity of wool manufactured annually in cassi- meres is about 150,000 pounds, making about 150,000 yards. The Lowell Carpet Manufactory is in itself a curiosity. Sixty-eight looms are kept in operation by hand labor, viz. 50 for ingrained or Kidderminster carpeting, 10 for Brus- sels, and 8 for rugs of various kinds. One hundred and forty thousand pounds of wool in the course of a year are manufactured into rich and beautiful carpets, the colors of which will vie with any imported. The number of yards of carpeting made per annum is upwards of 120,000, besides rugs. The operatives at present employed in all cc2 326 BOSTON so much wealth in proportion to the population. The trade, too, received from an extensive inland country, is very great, the facilities for approaching the city being rendered easy by means of excellent roads. The appearance of Boston is much admired by stran. gers, particularly when approaching from the sea. Its streets do not exhibit so great a regularity as some other cities; but its beautiful location and elegant public and private buildings, together with its richly ornamental grounds for promenading, render it altogether a peculiarly delightful and attractive place. The city is divided into five local districts, called North Boston, East Boston, West Boston, South End and South Boston; and its population is between 80 and 90,000. From Copp's Hill, in North Boston, which is partly occu- pied for a church yard, the British cannonaded the town of Charlestown in 1775, during the battle of Bunker Hill, when the village was mostly destroyed by conflagration. In the southwestern part of the city, and in front of the state house, is the celebrated Common, presenting an area of about 50 acres, enclosed by an elegant iron fence, and containing the Mall, a very beautiful public walk, adorn. ed with rows of trees. This is a delightful promenade during the summer months, and a place of general resort. In the centre of the Common is an eminence still exlib. iting marks of the fortification erected by the British during the revolution; north of which is the Crescent Pond, a beautiful sheet of water, surrounded with trees. Near the Mall, in Mason street, is the Medical college, an edifice belonging to Harvard University, surmounted by a dome with a sky-light and balustrade. 328 BOSTON. The first houses built in the city were plain, and the streets narrow and crooked; but a few years have wrought a striking and almost incredible change; new streets have been laid out, old ones straightened and im. proved, and neat brick and granite dwellings have been substituted for the ill-shapen and decaying houses of wood. The private buildings, and many of the stores are more splendid than in any other city of the United States. Among the public buildings are the State House, which is built on elevated ground, commanding a fine view of the surrounding country, and containing an elegant stat. ue of Washington; the County Court House, built of stone, at an expense of $92,000; the Municipal Court House; a stone Jail; Fanueil Hall, where all public meetings of the citizens are held ; the Fanueil Hall Market, one of the most expensive and beautiful build. ings of the kind in the world; 3 Theatres, one of which (the Tremont) cost about $120,000, being 135 feet in length and about 80 in breadth, the front of Hallowell and Quincy granite, in imitation of the Ionic order, with four pilasters supporting an entablature and pediment, and elevated on a basement of 17 feet; the Custom House, City Hall, Masonic Temple, Boylston Market and Boyl- ston Hall; Congress, Amory, Artist's Gallery, Concert, Corinthian, Pantheon, Washington and Chauncey Halls. Bridges.-There are seven bridges connecting Boston with the adjacent towns. Charles River bridge, which connects it with Charlestown on the North, 1503 feet long ; Warren free bridge, nearly parallel with the for. mer, and also running to Charlestown, 1420 feet long, on piers and Macadamized ; West Boston bridge, connect. 330 BOSTON. over the tomb, in which repose the remains of both his parents. The tombs of Governors Bellingham, Sumner and Sullivan are also in this ground. The New-England Museum, in Court street, is prob- ably the best in the United States, containing 60,000 curiosities, and should be visited by every stranger before leaving the city. Hotels-Tremont House is the most superb hotel in Boston, and not inferior to any in the Union. It is three stories high in front and four on the wings, exclusive of the basement. The front and two circular ends facing Beacon street, and the open ground south of the building, are of Quincy granite, and surmounted by an entablature, supported by antes at each extremity. The portico, which is of the same material, is 37 feet long by 7 feet in width, and 25 feet high. Four futed columns support the roof of the portico, the proportions of which are copied from those of the Doric Portico at Athens, with the ex. ception that the portico of the Tremont House di-triglyph, the inter columniations being nearly equal. The whole number of rooms is one hundred and eighty; and the principal entrance is nearly opposite the Tremont Theatre. From the top of this structure, an extensive and beautiful landscape, comprising a view of the harbor and the amphi- theatre of hills to the west, and of the towns of Charles- town and Chelsea to the north, presents itself. The next hotel in extent is the American House, in Hanover street, beautifully fitted up in the most modern style. It is lighted throughout with gas, and in point of reputation will compare with any house in the country. Besides these, the following are well managed and pop. BOSTON. 331 ular establishments : the New-England Coffee House, the Pearl street House, the Exchange Coffee House, Bromfield House, Lafayette Hotel, Marlboro Hotel, Franklin House, Hanover House, Commercial Coffee House, City Tavern, Blackstone House, National House, the Maverick House at East Boston and the Mount Washington House at South Boston. The Shawmut House, in Hanover street, conducted on the European plan, is a very elegant establishment. The Hancock House, the former residence of Governor Hancock, is still in good preservation in Beacon street, near the state house. There are also several ancient buildings in the vicinity of Ann street and Market square; in one of which, opposite the Golden Key, a relative of Doct. Franklin formerly resided, to whom he was in the habit of paying frequent visits. For the benefit of public houses and travellers, a Stage Register is published, once in two months, by Messrs. Badger & Porter, at the office of the American Traveller, No. 47 Court street, containing an account of the princi- · pal lines of stages, steamboats, rail roads and canal pack- ets in New England and New-York. The country around Boston is the admiration of every traveller of taste. The view from the dome of the state house surpasses any thing of the kind in this country, and is not excelled by that from the castle hill of Edinburgh, or that of the Bay of Naples from the castle of St. Elmo. Here may be seen at one view, the shipping, the harbor, variegated with islands and alive with business ; Charles river and its beautiful country, ornamented with elegant private mansions ; and more than twenty flourishing DD 332 EAST BOSTON-MOUNT AUBURN. towns. The hills are finely cultivated, and rounded by the hand of nature with singular felicity. East Boston is a new part of the city, built on what was formerly called Noddle's Island, a tract nearly as large as the peninsula of Boston. The island, like “ Win. nisiment,” in Chelsea, has grown up under the manage- ment of an incorporated company. In 1830 there was but one house on the island; since which it has been laid out into lots and streets ; many handsome dwellings have been erected, and the place now contains several hundred inhabitants. There are three steamboats on the ferry connecting it with the city, which ply constantly from morning till midnight. The Maverick House, located here, is a large and well conducted hotel. Mount AUBURN. Every traveller of taste should visit the new cemetry at Mount Auburn, in Cambridge, 5 miles from Boston. It is the pere la chaise of this country, and is situated in one of the most delightful spots ever selected for the repose of the dead. The grounds are very extensive, comprising every variety of hill and dale, covered with trees and shrubbery of almost every kind. There are numerous “avenues” for carriages, and“ paths” for pedestrians, designated by botanical names. The in- terments as yet have not been numerous; though the lots are all laid out, and many of them finished. Miss Hannah Adams, the historian of the Jews, was the first tenant of Mount Auburn. She died in December, 1831. Nature made this retreat romantic-art has rendered it beautiful--the Creator formed it lovely-man has made it sacred. 336 BREED'S HILL. Prescott, proceeded to execute these orders; but by some mistake, Breed's Hill, situated on the farther part of the peninsula, was selected for the proposed entrenchments. The party under Col. Prescott proceeded in their work with so much diligence and secrecy, that by the dawn of day, they had thrown up a square redoubt of about 40 yards on each side. Day light discovered this new work to the British, and a heavy canonnade was commenced upon it from the shipping in the river. The fire was borne with firmness by the Americans, and did not pre. vent them from soon constructing a breast work, which extended from the redoubt to the bottom of the hill. " As this eminence overlooked Boston, General Gage thought it necessary to drive the provincials from it. To effect this object, he detached Major General Howe and Brigadier General Pigot, at the head of ten companies of grenadiers and the same number of light infantry, with a proper proportion of field artillery. These troops landed at Moreton's Point, where they immediately formed; but perceiving the Americans to wait for them with firmness, they remained on their ground until the success of the enterprize should be rendered secure by the arrival of a reinforcement from Boston, for which General Howe had applied. During this interval the Americans also were reinforced by a body of their countrymen, led by Generals Warren and Pomeroy; and they availed themselves of this delay to increase their security, by pulling up some adjoining post and rail fences, and arranging them in two parallel lines at a small distance from each other; the space between which they filled up with hay, so as to form a complete cover from the musketry of the enemy. BREED'S HILL. 337 “On being joined by their second detachment, the British troops, who were formed in two lines, advanced slowly under cover of a very heavy discharge of cannon and howitzers, frequently halting in order to allow their artillery time to demolish the works. While they were advancing, orders were given to set fire to Charlestown, a handsome village containing about 500 houses, which flanked their line of march. The buildings were chiefly of wood, and the flames were quickly communicated so extensively, that almost the whole town was in one great blaze. “It is not easy to conceive a more grand and more awful spectacle than was now exhibited ; nor a moment of more anxious expectation than that which was now pre- sented. The scene of action was in full view of the heights of Boston and of its neiehborhood, which were covered with spectators taking deep and opposite inter- ests in the events passing before them. The soldiers of the two hostile armies not on duty, the citizens of Boston and the inhabitants of the adjacent country, all feeling emotions which set description at defiance, were wit. nesses of the majestic and tremendous scene. “The provincials permitted the enemy to approach un. molested within less than one hundred yards of their works, when they poured in upon them so deadly a fire of small arms, that the British line was totally broken, and fell back with precipitation towards the landing place. By the very great exertions of their officers, they were rallied and brought up to the charge, but were again driven back in confusion by the heavy and incessant fire from the works. General Howe is said to have been CHELSEA. 339 had probably prevented their receiving proper supplies of ammunition.” The number of British troops engaged in this action was about 3000, and their loss in killed and wounded was 1050. The American force has been variously stated from 1500 to 4000 ; and their loss, in killed, wounded and missing, amounted to 450. General Warren was among the number of the slain, and a handsome monu- ment now marks the spot where he fell. The corner stone of the Bunker Hill MONUMENT, on Breed's Hill, was laid on the 15th of June, 1825 : on which occasion the Marquis Lafayette was present. The depth, however, proving insufficient, the foundation was subsequently relaid; and the work has since progressed about 80 feet from the foundation. The Quincy granite is used for its structure. Its base is 50 feet in diameter, and its height is to be 220 feet. CHELSEA is situated about 3 miles northeast of Boston, at the mouth of Mystic river. The surface of the town is broken into several beautiful eminences, the highest of which is Richmond Hill, known in the period of the rev. olution as Powder House Hill; its height is 220 feet above the sea. Mount Bellingham is another eminence of gradual slope; it is laid out into streets, and affords delightful building lots over its whole surface. Chelsea is one of the most ancient towns in the vicinity of Bos- ton; and is now the only one which remains connected with the city to form the county of Suffolk. The princi. pal communication with the city is by the Chelsea bridge, through Charlestown, and by the Winnissimmet ferry, which usually has three steam boats constantly plying. 340 NAHANT. At the ferry landing, Winnissimmet village is the most thickly settled part of the town. Here are situated the U. S. Marine Hospital and the U. S. Navy Hospital. Chelsea Beach is a great attraction to strangers during the summer season. FORT INDEPENDENCE is situated on an island at the outlet of Boston harbor, 3 miles distant ; opposite to which is Governor's Island, containing a fort erected dur. ing the late war. These two forts command the en. trance into the harbor of Boston. Seven or eight miles below is the light house, at the north-east extremity of the channel, where vessels enter the Atlantic. NAHANT, Is a peninsula running three or four miles into the sea, and is situated fifteen miles northeasterly from Boston. It is approached from the town of Lynn over a beautiful beach of a mile and a half in length. At the extremity of this beach commences the peninsula, which is about 2 miles in length, and in some parts half a mile broad, although its shores are extremely irregular, and indented with small bays worn into the rocks by the unceasing ac. tion of the waves. The surface is uneven, rising in some places to the ele. vation of 60 or 70 feet above the level of the sea. The shore is very bold, and presents, on all sides, a grand em. bankment of broken massy rocks. At several points these rocks are worn into fantastic shapes, and at the time of high tide, or a swell of the sea, the roar and foam of the waters among them presents a most interesting spectacle, which is contemplated by the quiet observer, NAHANT. 341 seated on the summit above, with awe and admiration. The whole expanse of the ocean spreads out towards the east, and after a storm, the rolling waves come pouring in their immense burden upon these rocks, with such a power, sublimity and uproar of contending elements, as can hardly be conceived by any one who has not witness- ed the scene. And again, when the sea is tranquil, it may be seen covered with shipping of all sizes, as far as the eye can extend, moving in different directions up and down the coast, and exhibiting an animating picture of the industry and activity of commerce. Besides a view of the ocean, Nahant presents a great variety of other interesting prospects. On one side is seen the village of Lynn, Swanscut, Phillips' Beach, Marblehead, Egg Rock, Baker's Island, and the north shore as far as the highland of Cape Ann; on the other, Charlestown, Boston, the islands in Boston harbor, part of Dorchester, Braintree, Nantucket and Scituate, with the light-houses of Boston, Scituate and Baker's Island, forming together a panorama hardly to be equalled in beauty or variety. The peninsula extends farther into the sea than any other head land in the bay. It is distant from the near. est island in Boston harbor, to the south, 7 miles-from the nearest point of the south shore, about 12 miles from the north shore between 2 and 3 miles. It is on this side connected with the main land by a beach a few rods wide. Thus insulated and surrounded by water, Nahant enjoys a climate and temperature very cool, and, com- paratively, very equable—a circumstance of much im. portance to the invalid, and which will determine the 342 NAHANT, choice of a great portion of those who annually leave the city for the purpose of health or amusement. A spacious and elegant Hotel stands near the extremity of the peninsula, in a very commanding and pleasant sit. uation. It is surronnded by piazzas, which afford a most delightful prospect in every direction, and receive the cool and refreshing breezes every part of the day. In a small village, a quarter of a mile from the Hotel, are sev- eral private boarding houses, for invalids and those who seek retirement. Numerous cottages, too, have been erected by several individuals for the purpose of affording more extensive and elegant accommodations to those who may pass the summer in this delightful place of residence. Nahant has many amusements. Angling with the rod may be enjoyed as a pleasant recreation, standing on the rocks; and those who would try their skill in decoying larger prey, may go out in boats, which are always in readiness, and furnished with suitable apparatus. Game, too, is abundant in the vicinity. But there are few amusements or pleasures superior to that of riding, at suitable hours of the day, on the beach. On the whole, the proximity of Nahant to Boston—its facility of access—the beauty and grandeur of its scene. ry-and above all, the singular local advantages it affords for invigorating the constitution, the salubrity and bracing tone of its atmosphere, and the excellent accommodations it offers to visitors—will always make it a place of exten- sive resort during the summer months. 344 FORTS AROUND BOSTON. rounded by the mounds and fosse of the ancient fort; which has been nearly obliterated. Cobble or Barrel's Hill was fortified, and occupied as a strong post, in the war of the revolution, by General Putnam, and, in consequence of its strength, was called Putnam's impregnable fortress. It was commenced on the night of November 22d; and the activity of its fire is well known to those who have studied the details of the siege of Boston. This fort has been destroyed ; but the position is easily identified. Lechmere Point Redoubt, one hundred yards from West Boston bridge, displays more science in its con. struction, and has a wider and deeper fosse than most of the other fortifications. It was commenced on Dec. 11th, 1775, and it was several days before it was com. pleted, during which time it was much exposed to the fire of the English in Boston. Two or three soldiers of the revolutionary army were killed at this redoubt, and the Prunus Virginiana, with its red berries, marks the spot where they were probably interred. Upon one an. gle of the fort, where the cannon were pointed with most destructive effect, a church is now erected. A causeway made across the marsh, the covered wav whiih crosses the brow of the hill, and the lines which flanked Willis' creek, are still perfect, and may be traced with great facility, Winter Hill Fort appears to have been the most ex. tensive, and the entrenchments more numerous, than any of the other positions of the American army. The fort on the hill is almost entirely destroyed ; only a small part of the rampart still remains perfect. 346 . FORTS AROUND BOSTON. ted by the army of America ; its bastions are entire, the outline is perfect, and it seems a chief d'œuvre of the military art. A square fort may be seen near the southern extremity of these lines, in fine preservation ; it is in a field within two hundred yards of the road to Cambridge. The east- ern rampart is lower than the others, and the gateway with its bank of earth still remains. The Second Line of Defence may be traced on the college green at Cambridge, but its proximity to the pub. lic halls may have produced some inconvenience, and it has been carefully destroyed. A semicircular battery, with three embrasures, on the northern shore of Charles river, near its entrance into the bay, is in a perfect state of preservation. It is rath. er above the level of the marsh, and those who would wish to see it, should pass on the road to Cambridge until they arrive at a cross road which leads to the bank of the river ; by following the course of the stream, they may arrive at this battery without crossing the marsh, which is its northern boundary, and difficult to pass. Brookline Fort, or, as it is called in the annals of the revolution, the fort on Sewell's Point, was very exten- sive, and would still be perfect, were it not for the road which divides it into two nearly equal parts. With this exception, the rampart and an irregular bastion, which commanded the entrance of Charles river, are entire. The fort was nearly quadrangular, and the forti. fications stronger than many of the other positions of the American army. 348 FORTS AROUND BOSTON. Boston into an island. The mounds, ramparts and wide ditches which remain, attest the strength of the original works. The small battery on the common, erec- ted by the British, may perhaps remain for a long period of years, as a memorial of ancient times. The Dorchester Lines. Of these some very slight tra- ces may be distinguished. Forts on Dorchester Heights.-We now hasten to the last forts, the erection of which terminated the contest in this portion of the eastern states of America. It is to be regretted that the entrenchments thrown up by the army of the revolution, on the heights of Dorchester, are almost entirely obliterated by the erection of two new forts in the late war. But some traces of the ancient works may be seen on both hills ; the old forts were con. structed with more skill and display more science than the recent works, the ramparts of which are even now falling down ; and we would gladly see them destroyed, if from their ruins the ancient works could re-appear. A noble octagonal fort and two batteries, which may be seen in perfect preservation upon the promontory, were erected after the departure of the English from Boston. The fort is situated at the point ; one battery is in the rear of the House of Industry, whose inmates will probably soon destroy it, and the other upon a rising ground immediately below the heights of Dorchester. At Nook Hill, near South Boston bridge, may be seen the last breast-work which was thrown up by the for. ces of America during this arduous contest. Its appear. ance on the morning of March 17, 1776, induced the departure of the British troops from Boston in a few 350 SALEM NEWBURYPORT. shocs, which are sent to the southern states and the West Indies. The Lynn Beach connects the peninsula of Na. hant with the main land, and is a favorite resort in sum. mer. SALEM, which is entered by the rail road through a tunnel, is considered the second town in New England in commerce, wealth and population. It is located on a peninsula formed by two inlets of the sea, called North and South rivers. On the opposite side of North river is the town of Beverly, to which a bridge leads, 1500 feet in length. Marblehead is on the opposite side of South river, which forms the harbor, defended by two forts. Salem contains a court house, 3 banks, an atheneum, a museum, an orphan asylum, and 13 churches. The Square, near the centre of the town, is a beautiful tract of ground, and is surrounded by numerous elegant prie vate dwellings. Salem was settled as early as 1626. Its Indian name was Naumkeag. In 1692, and for some time afterwards, several of its inhabitants became a prey to the greatest credulity and bigotry. Its prison was crowded with per. sons accused of witchcraſt, many of whom paid their life as a forfeit for their supposed crimes. The present pop- ulation of the town is from 12 to 15,000. NEWBURYPORT is handsomely situated on the south bank of the Merrimack river, three miles from its mouth, rising on a gradual acclivity from the water. The streets are wide, and intersect each other at right angles; and many of the houses are elegant. The court house, standing at the head of one of the principal streets lead. EXETER-PORTSMOUTH. 351 ing from the river, adds much to the beauty of the place. The village contains 2 banks, 7 churches, and 7000 in- habitants, and is a place of considerable trade; though it suffered much during the restrictive system, previous to the late war. Exeter is handsomely located at the head of tide wa- ter, on the Exeter river, which is ravigable for vessels of 500 tons burthen. The village exhibits considerable en- terprise, and is the locality of several manufacturing es- tablishments. The academy at this place is one of the most opulent and extensive in the Union. PORTSMOUTH is the largest town and only seaport in New Hampshire. It is located on the south side of the Piscataqua river, 2 miles from its mouth. The town con- tains 5 banks, an atheneum, an asylum for females, an alms house, custom house and 7 churches. A bridge, 2371 feet long, crosses the river at this place to Kittery, Me., on the opposite side. On an island between the two places, is a navy yard. The town is handsome in its appearance, is a place of considerable trade, and contains a population of about 8000. In 1695 this place was assaulted by a party of Indians, and 14 of its inhabitants killed, 1 scalped, who recovered, and 4 taken prisoners. After burning several houses, the Indians retreated through what is called the great swamp. They were, however, overtaken the next morning by a company of militia, dispersed, and the prisoners retaken. After leaving Portsmouth, the villages of York, Welles, Kennebunk and Saco, are successively passed before reaching Portland ; affording very little to interest, if we 354 FREEPORT-WALDOBORO'. Freeport, 6 miles farther, is at the head of Casco bay, and contains a population of about 2500 inhabitants. Brunswick, 9 miles. The village, which is peculiarly pleasant, is situated on the southwest bank of the An- droscoggin river, at the falls, which furnish valuable seats for mills and manufactories. Bowdoin College, at this place, is located on an elevated and beautiful plain, enjoy. ing a rich and diversified view of the river and surround. ing country. The college originally received a donation of $10,000 from the late James D. Bowdoin, Esq., and five townships of land from the state. It also receives $3000 annually from the latter. From 130 to 150 stu- dents are yearly educated at this institution. Bath, 7 miles farther, is a port of entry, on the west side of the Kennebec river, 15 miles from its mouth. The river is here a mile wide, and the town is built on an acclivity for a mile and a half in extent, and assumes a very handsome appearance from the water. It is a place of extensive business, and contains two banks, an acade. my, 5 churches, and a population of nearly 5000 inhabi. tants. Wiscasset, 15 miles, is a port of entry, located on the west side of Sheepscot river, with an excellent harbor. The place contains a court house, jail, bank, insurance office, and some other public buildings, and a population of about 2500. WaldoBORO', 18 miles, is a port of entry, and a place of considerable trade, containing a population of about 3000 inhabitants. WARREN-CASTINE. 355 WARREN, 9 miles, is located on St. George's river, which is navigable to this place for sloops. THOMASTON, 4 miles, is a place of extensive business, situated on the west side of Penobscot bay, and on St. George's river, 12 miles from its mouth. The state prison of Maine is at this place, and is in a lot of 10 acres, en- closed by a solid wall, within which is an extensive quar. ry of limestone. There are also in the vicinity of the town inexhaustible quarries of lime and marble, of which large quantities are annually exported. The village con- tains a bank, and a population of about 3000 inhabitants. About a mile from the village is the ancient residence of the late Gen. Knox, now in a state of decay. Camden, 11 miles, and LINCOLNVILLE, 7 miles farther, are both situated on the west side of the Penobscot bay. Belfast, 11 miles from Lincolnville, is on the same side of the bay, and is a flourishing village. CASTINE, 9 miles, is situated on a promontory, near the head of the east side of Penobscot bay, with a beautiful harbor stretching out before the town. Castine can be easily defended from assault; as the narrowness of the isthmus which connects it with the main land could be insulated with comparatively a small expense; added to which, strong batteries would enable it to resist any force which would probably be brought against it. This would be the more important in time of war, as an enemy in possession of the place would have command of the in- termediate country from Penobscot to St. Croix. The place was taken during the last war, and the British en. trenchments on a hill above the town, are still visible. PORTLAND TO QUEBEC. 357 و نه = حمرين FROM PORTLAND TO QUEBEC-258 miles. The road from Portland to Quebec is principally over the route pursued by Gen. Arnold and his troops in 1775, previous to the assault of that place by Gen. Montgom. ery. The intermediate distances are as follow : Miles. Miles. North Yarmouth,. 12 Norrigdework,.... 16 91 Freeport, ....... 6 18 | Solon, ........... 20 111 Brunswick, .... 9 27 | Moscow, ........ 13 124 Bowdoinham, .. 40 Ferry over Kene- Gardner, ...... 51 bec river, ...... 17 141 Hallowell, ..... 4 55 | Monumet, ....... 48 189 Augusta, ........ 3 58 St. Joseph, ...... 54 213 Sidney, .......... 12 70 St. Henry, ...... 28 271 Waterville, ....... 5 75 | Quebec, ......... 12 283 North Yarmouth, Freeport, Brunswick and Bath have already been noticed. HallowELL, 55 miles from Portland, is a very flour. ishing village, on the Kennebec river, at the head of tide water. It contains an academy, a bank, three churches, between ? and 300 dwelling houses, some of which are very elegant, and about 3000 inhabitants. Granite is here obtained, which is considered equal to any ever discovered in the Union Vessels of 150 tons bur- then ascend the river as far as this place. AUGUSTA, 3 miles, is the seat of government of the state, and is located on both sides of the Kennebec riv- er, over which is a substantial bridge. A part of the vil. lage is on a very elevated plain above the river, and a part of it on its banks. Many of the dwellings exhibit much taste and elegance in their structure, and the BOSTON TO PROVIDENCE. 359 FROM BOSTON TO PROVIDENCE, R.I.-40 miles. The route is over the Boston AND Providence Rail Road, which was begun in 1831, and completed in 1835. The road commences in Boston, near the south-west corner of the common, and crossing the Boston and Wor. cester rail road, it proceeds in a south-westerly direction through Roxbury, Canton, Sharon, Mansfield and Attle- borough. The greatest elevation is at Sharon, 23 miles from Boston, the ascent in reaching which, for a distance of five miles, is at the rate of 37 feet per mile. The de- scent from this ridge towards Providence averages from 10 to 12 feet per mile. Between Roxbury and Canton a branch, two miles long, has been constructed to the vil. lage of Dedham;* and from Mansfield, a branch, eleven miles long, has also been constructed to the village of Taunton. The main road and branches are each laid with a single track, but of the most permanent materials. The viaduct at Canton is a work of magnitude, and as an object of curiosity, is one of the most interesting on this road. It is 450 feet long and from 40 to 50 feet above the natural surface, built entirely of granite, in the most permanent manner. Two trains of carriages for passengers pass daily (Sun- *This is a large and beautiful town, containing a court house, jail, 6 churches and between 2 and 3000 inhabi. tants. Charles and Neponset rivers run through the place and afford numerous sites for mills and manufac- turing establishmenis. Silk is reeled and throwsted here on a small scale--the first experiment of throwsting in the U.S. FF2 PROVIDENCE. 361 Brown University, established in this city, was incor. porated in 1764, and has always held a respectable rank among the colleges of New England. Since 1827 the Rev. Francis Wayland, D. D. has been its President. Under the able and well sustained administration of this distinguished gentleman, its character has been very much elevated, and its means of instruction greatly en- larged. A full and elegant philosophical apparatus was a few years since presented to the institution by a late munificent merchant of Providence, and still more re- cently a fund of 25,000 dollars has been raised for the in- crease of its library. The college edifices are situated on a commanding eminence, a little to the east of the city, in the midst of a spacious inclosure, adorned with trees and approached through a beautiful street, lined on either side by over-hanging elms. The buildings are three in number-University Hall, Hope College and Manning Hall. The latter is a beautiful model of chaste and sim. ple architecture. It is devoted to the purposes of a chap- el and library. The faculty consists of 6 professors be. sides the president, who is also professor of moral and in. tellectual philosophy, 3 tutors, and an instructor in mod- ern languages. The number of its students is not far from 200. About half a mile north-east of the university is a large building called the Quaker College. It was built by the society of Friends, and is occupied as a boarding school for that denomination. The building, which is of plain brick, and the spacious grounds around it, are made at. tractive by the appearance of neatness and good order that pervades them. A little to the south of this and of 362 BLACKSTONE CANAL. corresponding dimensions, but richer architecture, stands the Dexter Asylum, a noble edifice, erected by the town from the avails of a legacy left by a late munificent citi. zen, whose name it bears. The city abounds with the most delightful private residences. The new town on the west side of the river, has more the appearance of a flourishing commercial city than the old. It also contains many spacious dwellings, which impart to it an air of superiority. The Hill, or East Providence, as it is called, is occupied by gentle. men's private mansions, or country seats, all advantage. ously located, with fine court yards in front, thickly plan. ted with shrubbery, while highly cultivated and beautiful gardens adorn the rear, and add immeasurably to their comfort. The charming residence of Messrs. Brown, Ives and Governor Fenner are entiiled to particular no- tice. It was on the present domains of Governor Fen- ner that Roger Williams, the founder of Providence, first planted himself. The BLACKSTONE Canal terminates at this place. It commences in the Blackstone river at Worcester, Mass. 45 miles distant, and pursues the valley of the river to Woonsokett falls, near the Massachusetts line ; whence there is an excavation to Providence. The STONINGTON AND PROVIDENCE Rail Road, before noticed, also terminates at this place. It is about 49 miles long. PROVIDENCE TO NEW-YORK. 363 FROM PROVIDENCE TO NEW-YORK. By Steamboat, 211 miles. The following are intermediate distances : Miles. Miles. Pawtuxet, ....... 5 Southport, ....... 5 143 Mount Hope, .... 8 13 Oldwell, ......... 8 151 Bristol, ... 2 l, ......... 15 i Stamford, ......... 8 159 Newport, ........ 10 25 West Greenwi h,. 8 167 Point Judith, ..... 14 39 New-Rochelle, ... 11 178 N. London Harbor, 35 74 | Frog's Point, 8 186 Connecticut river,. 14 88 | Flushing Bay, .... 3 189 Falkner's Island, . 19 107 | Hurl-Gate, ... | Hurl-Gate, ....... 4 193 N. Haven Harbor, 12 119 | New-York, ...... 8 201 Black Rock, ..... 19 138 | Pawtuxet, 5 miles from Providence, is located at the mouth of the Pawtuxet river, and is a flourishing village of considerable trade. Mount Hope, 8 miles farther, is on the west shore of Mount Hope Bay. It is of a conical form, with an acute and nearly pointed apex, and rises about 300 feet above the water's edge. It is more particularly celebrated as the former residence of King Philip, a chief of the Nar. raganset tribe of Indians, possessed of uncommon intel. lect and military prowess. He was a great foe to the whites; and after many sanguinary conflicts, was finally killed near this place by a renegado Indian of his own nation. Bristol, 2 miles farther, is a pleasant town, with a population of about 1500 inhabitants. The village is lo- cated on the east shore of the Narraganset bay, affording an excellent harbor for vessels of the largest dimensions. About two miles from the ferry there is an extensive NEWPORT-POINT JUDITH. 365 French admiral, as a precautionary measure, to sail out of the harbor. A severe storm coming on, prevented a naval engagement; and both fleets, being left in a shat. tered condition at the close of the tempest, retired—the British to New York, and the French to Newport. Dur. ing this time, Gen. Sullivan had laid siege to the town; and though interrupted by the storm, in which his army suffered considerably, he had succeeded in annoying the enemy and keeping him within the lines of the village. On the return of the French fleet, another effori was made to induce the admiral to co-operate with the Ameri- cans; but his ships had received so much injury in the gale, that he considered it necessary to repair to Boston, pursuant to previous instructions from his government. Under these circumstances, Sullivan determined on rais. ing the seige. A retreat was effected in the night ; but on its being discovered the next morning, the Americans were pursued by the British to Quaker Hill, where a sharp contest ensued, which resulted in the loss of be- tween 2 and 300 of each army. Sullivan afterwards re. treated to Massachusetts. From its elegant and healthy situation, its proximity to the ocean, and the salubrity of its climate. Newport, for several years, has been a place of considerable resort in the summer months for invalids and parties of pleasure. Point Judith, 14 miles from Newport, a cape on the west side of the Narraganset bay, is generally passed with less pleasure than any other part of the route. The boat here frequently encounters the full swell of the ocean wave, subjecting passengers to sea-sickness and its kin- 370 NEW-LONDON TO NORWICH. A steam boat leaves Norwich and New-London daily for New-York, and runs in conjunction with the Nor- wich and Worcester rail road, noticed at p. 372. Stages also leave New-London at 8 A. M. and arrive at Hartford at 5 P. M. passing through Waterville, Montville, Salem, Colchester, Hebron, Marlborough, Glastenbury and East Hartford. Distance 47 miles- fare $2. This is the most direct route; but the traveller will find it interesting to take a trip up the Thames to Norwich ; whence a conveyance may be had to Hartford, as noticed hereafter. FROM NEW-LONDON TO NORWICH, By steamboat-14 miles. Previous to the settlement of New-London, in 1648, the Thames was called the Pequot river; but at that pe. riod it received its present name. It rises in the Massa. paeug pond in Union, 3 miles N. E. of Hartford, passes into Massachusetts, re-enters Connecticut, and pursues a southerly course till it falls into Long Island Sound. It is navigable for large vessels no farther than Norwich. During the late war, while New-London was blockaded, the U. S. ships Macedonian, United States and Hornet, were moored in a cove above Massapeaug Point, and a small battery erected for their protection. Mohegan is on the west bank of the Thames, four miles south of Norwich, and is the residence of about 300 Mohegan Indians, the only remnant of that once power. ful tribe, who formerly owned this section of country. On Horton's Hill, not far from this place, the lines of an old Indian fort can still be traced. HARTFORD. 373 East HARTFORD is located on the east bank of the Connecticut river, directly opposite Hartford, with which it is connected by an elegant bridge, which, including the causeway, is nearly a mile long. HARTFORD. A settlement was commenced by the English at this place in 1634. The Dutch, from New-Netherlands, had previously established a trading house and a port at the place, for the purpose of carrying on a commerce with the Indians, and were disposed to prevent the English from participating in the traffic. But finding that this could not be effected, without a bloody contest, they abandoned the design. The charter which was originally granted to the col- onists of Connecticut, having been demanded by the English monarch in 1686, through the medium of an agent, it was regularly surrendered by the colonial legis- lature. This took place in an evening; and while it re- mained on a table in a room where an agent and several British officers had assembled, the windows being open, on a preconcerted signal, the candles were extinguished by persons in the street, and the charter seized by a citi. zen in the room, and conveyed to a tree; in the cavity of which it remained for several years. This tree is still standing; and is known by the name of the Charter Oak. It is located in the lower part of the town, in the street running east from the south church, and is directly in front of the ancient mansion of the Wyllis family. The charter is still preserved in the office of the secretary of state. HARTFORD TO MIDDLETOWN. 377 FROM HARTFORD TO MIDDLETOWN-15 miles. The route is by stage through Wethersfield and Rocky Hill. WETHERSFIELD is located on the west bank of the Connecticut river, 4 miles below Hartford. The soil, which is of the finest order, is principally devoted to the culture of onions; of which large quantities are exported annually. The labor is principally performed by women and children. The penitentiary of the state is at this place. Rocky Hill, 3 miles; a parish in the town of Weth. ersfield, containing a lofty eminence, from which a rich and variegated prospect of the surrounding country is en. joyed. Six miles farther is a village, called Middletown Upper Houses; from which place to the city of Middle. town is 2 miles. MIDDLETOWN Is a port of entry, and is handsomely located on the west bank of the Connecticut river, 31 miles from its mouth. Among its public buildings are a court house, jail, alms-house, 2 banks, 7 churches and a university sus- tained by the Methodists. There are also several exten- sive manufactories of rifles, swords, buttons, ivory combs, woollen and cotton goods, &c. The population of the city is about 8000. The Wesleyan University, founded in 1831, is an insti. tution of great prornise, under the patronage of the Meth- odist Episcopal church. Its buildings are eligibly situa- ted, on a hill adjacent to the city, and command a fine view of the surrounding country. It possesses a valua. 378 HARTFORD TO NEW-HAVEN. ble library, cabinet of minerals, chemical and philosophical apparatus, &c. On the east bank of the Connecticut, opposite to Mid- dletown, are several quarries of free stone, used for build. ing. Immediately below the city, the river turns abruptly to the south-east ; and passes between two lofty hills, forming what are called the Narrows. Within these Narrows, on the south bank of the river, is a lead mine, which was used during the revolutionary war. It can be approached only in boats or by means of a foot path.* FROM HARTFORD TO NEW-HAVEN-34 miles. The route is by rail road as follows : Miles. | Miles. Newington, ...... 4 Wallingford, ..... 4 21 Worthington, .... 7 11 | North-Haven, .... 6 27 Meriden, ........ 6 17 | New Haven, ..... 7 34 The villages in the respective towns through which the road passes being on elevated ground, while the val. leys and low grounds have necessarily been selected for the site of the road, no important settlements are seen until reaching *Continuing a course down the river, the steamboat successively passes Middle Haddam, Haddam, East Haddam, Essex or Pettipaug, and Saybrook, where the river enters Long Island Sound. The shores are gener. ally bold and rocky, and present but few objects of inter- est. Saybrook was the first town settled on the river ; at which time (1635) a small fort was erected at the place. The town was originally granted to Lord Say and Seal, Lord Brook and others, and derived its name from these proprietors. Yale college was located here for a time, and afterwards removed to New Haven. 380 NEW HAVEN. tutors. The library consists of about 10,000 volumes; and the literary societies among the students have libra. ries amounting, collectively, to 5000 more. The cabinet of minerals is very extensive, and by far the most valua. ble of any in the Union. The college buildings consist of four spacious edifices, each 4 stories high, 104 feet long and 40 wide, and each containing 32 rooms for stu. dents; two chapels, one containing a philosophical cham. ber; a Lyceum, containing the library and recitation rooms ; and a handsome dining hall in the rear of the other buildings. Seven of these buildings stand in a line fronting the green, the Lycum occupying a central posi. tion; and the whole, with the charming scencry around, form a most enchanting and elegant landscape. The medical institution fronting College street is connected with the college, and has a valuable anatomical museum. The number of students at Yale is generally from 450 to 500. The Burying Ground, containing several acres, is divided into parallelograms, which are subdivided for families. The ground is planted with trees, mostly wil. lows; and the white monuments, several of which are obelisks, seen through the foliage, with the taste and uni. formity every where discovered, give to the whole a most impressive and solemn appearance. The Tontine Coffee House is one of the best establish. ments of the kind in the U. S. It is located directly in front of the state house and college edifices, the public square intervening, commanding from its upper or fourth story a beautiful and extensive view of the city and the surrounding country. WEST ROCK-FARMINGTON CANAL. 381 West Rock is 2 miles north-west of New Haven. It is the southern extremity of the east ridge of the Green Mountains, and is a perpendicular bluff fronting the south, 400 feet in height. The village of Hotchkisstown is at its foot. The cave in which the regicide judges, Whalley & Goffe, secreted themselves for three or four years, (see p. 293,) is on the summit of the rock, about a mile north of the bluff. 'I he cave is formed by the crev. ices between several large rocks, apparently thrown to- gether by some convulsion, and is entirely above ground. Near the top of one of the rocks is this inscription : "Op. position to tyrants is obedience to God.” During the continuance of the regicides at this place, they were fur. nished daily with food by a family who resided near the foot of the mountain. East Rock is 2 miles north-east of New Haven, and is the southern termination of the Mount Tom range of mountains. It is 370 feet high, and from its top a fine view is had of New Haven, its harbor, the Sound and Long-Island. The Farmington Canal, which was originally com. menced at the north line of the state, terminates at New. Haven-distance 58 miles, lockage 218 feet. This canal has since been extended to Northampton, Mass. between 20 and 30 miles farther; and a branch has been con. structed from Farmington up the Farmington river, to New-Hartford, 15 miles. The towns bordering on the Sound, near New Haven, are visited in the summer months by numerous invalids for the benefit of the sea breeze and a salubrious climate. Among these towns, GUILFORD, 15 miles east of New. 388 MUDDY BROOK, unfortified buildings were immediately burnt; but the others, which were pallisaded were defended by a few in- habitants. Part of the Indians then repaired to the fields, and attacked the men at their labor ; but 25 young men crossed the river from Hadley, and rushing upon the en. emy, killed several, and finally, with the aid of the inhab. itants, dispersed them. MUDDY BROOK, 9 miles from Hatfield, is a small vil. lage, deriving its name from a stream which passes through the place, bordered by a narrow morass. The place in 1675, and for some time subsequent, was called Bloody Brook, in consequence of a battle which was fought with the Indians on the 18th of Septeniber of that year. Capt. Lothrop, who had been despatched with 80 men and several teams, to secure a quantity of wheat in Deerfield, two or three miles farther north, was surprised on his return through this place, by a party of 700 Indi. ans, who had secrctly watched his movements, and who lay in ambush awaiting his arrival. He had no sooner crossed the small stream above mentioned, than they rushed upon him, pouring in such a deadly fire as to pro- duce complete discomfiture. Lothrop and his men fled ; but being pursued and overtaken at all points, they re- solved to sell their lives in a vigorous struggle. Thcy ac. cordingly posted themselves bchind the neighboring trees; when the conflict became a trial of skill in sharp shoot- ing. At length the struggle terminated in the annihila- tion of nearly the whole of the English. Lothrop was killed in the early part of the action ; and his loss, inclu- ding teamsters, amounted to ninety. The troops at Deer. field, under Captain Moseley, hearing the musketry, has. 390 DEERFIELD. pelled to abandon their dwellings and seek a temporary asylum in the neighboring towns. During the French wars under William and Anne, however, they maintained their ground until 1704 ; made many improvements and enclosed the centre of the village by an extensive but imperfect pallisaded work. This fortification was attack. ed by about 350 French and Indians, in the month of February of that year. They had secretly taken a po. sition two miles north of the village on the evening of the 91h ; whence they cautiously proceeded to the fort the next morning before day. There being no sentinels posted, the fortification was easily entered, and the work of destruction commenced ere the inhabitants had arous. ed from their slumbers. A feeble resistance, only, could be made. All the houses, except one, within the pali. sades, were burnt ; between 40 and 50 of the inhabitants were killed, and 112, including women and children, made prisoners. In the drear of winter, with a scanty supply of provisions, and with little clothing, the unfortu- nate captives were compelled to take up their line of march for Canada. Mr. Williams, the clergyman of the place, and his family, were of the number. His wife* was murdered in two or three days after commencing the excursion ; and sixteen others either died or were massa. cred before reaching the Province. Most of those who survived, after remaining in captivity for some time, were * She was afterwards with her husband, interred in the church-yard at Deerfield, and marble slabs placed over their graves. DEERFIELD-TURNER'S FALLI. 391 redeemed. A daughter of Mr. Williams, however, who had married an Indian chief, refused to return. She as- sumed the habiliment of a savage, and died in Canada somo years afterwards. Several of her descendants are still living there. The house which survived the conflagration at Dcer. field is still standing. It is in a tolerable state of preser. vation, and exhibits to this day the perforation made in the door by tomahawks, as well as the marks of balls in the interior. One of these marks is shown as having been made by a ball which killed a female in the house ; and in one of the timbers a bullet is seen, which has nev. er been extracted. GREENFIELD, 4 miles from Deerfield, is a large and pleasant village, on the west side of the river; from which it is distant 2 miles. It contains a court house, jail, bank and 3 churches. It is a central position for the trade of the surrounding country, and is a place of wealth and en: terprise. TURNER’s Falls, on the Connecticut river, are 3 miles from Greenfield, in a north-easterly direction. The road taken in visiting them is east of the ordinary stage route ; and it is customary therefore, after an excursion to the falls, to return to Greenfield. The route is principally over the ground taken by Capt. Turner, in his attack on the Indians in 1676. The fall is between forty and fifty feet; but by the erection of a dam for the accommodation of a canal, the cataract has lost much of its original wild. ness. The Indians, amounting to several hundreds, having taken a position on elevated ground, on the west bank of II 392 TURNER'S FALLS. the river at the head of the fall, it was deemed important to dislodge them. This service was undertaken by Capt. Turner, at the head of about 160 mounted troops. He leſt Hatfield on the 17th of May, 1676, and reached within half a mile of the Indian encampment before day the next morning without discovery. Here his men left their horses, and by a rapid march, reached the camp be. fore the Indians awoke from their slumbers. A deadly and destructive fire was immediately commenced. Be. lieving it to proceed from their ancient and powerſul ene. my the Mohawks, many of the Indians fled to the river, and leaped into their canoes; but, in attempting to cross, they were mostly shot or precipitated over the cataract. Others fled to the rocks of the river bank, where they were cut down without resistance; and few escaped the victorious arms of the assailants. One hundred were left dead on the field ; one hundred and forty were seen to descend the cataract ; and their whole loss was after. wards ascertained to have been 300. Turner lost but one man. In his retreat he was less fortunate. He was attacked by other parties of Indians on the route--his men divi. ded-himself killed ; and the loss of his party, before they reached Hatfield, amounted to between 30 and 40. Capt. T. is supposed to have fallen in what is called Greenfield Meadow, at the mouth of a small stream, on which a mill now stands; as his body was afterwards found at that place by a scouting party of the English. BERNARDSTOWN, 5 miles north of Greenfield. The THANE - - - - தர்பத்தாக பாபர் - பம்ப ர் OLE STS 000' x