LBOIS. I H. R. 
 
 llrn 
 
 L.ETTER 
 
 THE PRESIDENT 
 
 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF PUBLIC WORKS 
 
 THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, 
 
 RELATIVE TO 
 
 NORTHERN END OF THE CENTRAL RAILROAD 
 
 SUBMITTED TO 
 
 THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, 
 JANUARY 30, 1839. 
 
 VANDALIA, ILL. 
 
 WIUJAJK WALTERS, Public Printer. 
 
 1839.
 
 REPORT 
 
 THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS. 
 
 JANUARY 30, 1839. 
 
 Read, laid on the table, and ordered to be printed. 
 
 INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT OFFICE, 
 
 Vandalia, January 29, 1 839. 
 To the Hon. the SPEAKER of the House of Representatives: 
 
 SIR: In accordance with a certain resolution adopted by the House of 
 Representatives on the 14th inst., calling on the Board of Commissioners 
 of Public Works for information relative to the prosecution of the work 
 on the northern end of the Central railroad; and. in answer to the first 
 inquiry, to wit: "Such communications (if any) as may have passed 
 between the citizens of Galena, assembled in town meeting, and the 
 Board of Public Works, relative to the northern termination of the Cen- 
 tral railroad; and, also, from the trustees of the town of Galena to the 
 Board of Public Works, on the same subject, or to the Commissioner of 
 the sixth judicial circuit:" the Board have the honor to submit the fol- 
 lowing communication, marked A, as comprising all the communications 
 that have passed between the citizens of Galena, assembled in town 
 meetings, and the Board of Public Works, relative to the northern termi- 
 nation of the Central railroad; and the following communication, mark- 
 ed B, on the same subject, comprises the correspondence from the trus- 
 tees of the town of Galena with the Board of Public Works. 
 
 In answer to the second inquiry: "Whether the northern termination 
 of the Central railroad has yet been located; and, if so, whether such 
 termination is north or south of Fever river:"' the Board have to state,, 
 that they have had the subject under mature deliberation, and given it a 
 thorough examination, and find that the Commissioner of the sixth judi- 
 cial circuit has not made any decision on the subject; and he thinks the 
 subject of sufficient importance to require legislative action, and express- 
 ed his desire that it should be referred to the Legislature. 
 
 They have also had before them a letter from Col. J."W. Stephenson, 
 late Commissioner of said circuit, a copy ot which is herewith annexed, 
 marked C; by which it will be seen that no definite action had been 
 taken by him on the subject; and the Board, so far from having made 
 any decision whatever in regard to it, most cheerfully concur with the 
 present Commissioner of the sixth judicial circuit in the opinion that it 
 is a fit subject for legislative action. 
 
 .Yt .H .ft
 
 In answer lo the third inquiry: "At what place on Rock river the 
 said Board of Public Works have determined that the Central railroad 
 shall cross, and their reasons why a more direct route from Peru, on the 
 Illinois river, to Savannah, on the Mississippi river, has not been adopt- 
 ed:" the Board have to state, that they have not yet determined where 
 the Central railroad shall cross Rock river, the line not having been 
 definitively located from Rocky ford, or inlet, to Savannah. 
 
 In answer to the fourth inquiry: "What amount of money will be re- 
 quired to improve the rapids of Rock river, in range 7, east of the 4th 
 principal meridian; and, also, what amount ot water-power will he obtain- 
 ed by said improvement:" the Board refer the House of Representa- 
 tives to the report of O. Blane, senior assistant engineer of the Rock 
 river improvement, appended to the report of the Commissioner of the 
 sixth judicial circuit, which was laid before the House of Represen- 
 tatives by fhe Governor, on the 27th Descmber, 1838. 
 
 In answer to the fifth inquiry: "Whether this water-power would not 
 be brought into more immediate use, and rendered more valuable to the 
 State, if the Central railroad should cross Rock river at that point:" 
 the Board are unable to answer, not having in their possession a report 
 from the engineer on the subject. But, in order to furnish all informa- 
 tion desired, thuy have transmitted a copy of that portion of the resolu- 
 tion relative to this matter to the engineer in charge of said improve- 
 ment, with instructions to report on the same at as early a period as 
 practicable; and, on receipt of said report, the Board will furnish the 
 House with the information desired. 
 
 In answer to the sixth inquiry: "Whether the line of the Central 
 railroad adopted is longer or shorte^than another line from Peru, on 
 the Illinois river, via the rapids on Rock river, to Savannah, on the 
 Mississippi river, and the comparative cost of construction of the two 
 routes:'' the Board have to state that there has not been any line adop- 
 ted by the Board; but, in order to afford the House of Representatives 
 every information on the subject, the Board refer them to the annexed 
 report of Wm. B. Gilbert, marked D. 
 
 In answer to the seventh inquiry: "And that they report to this House 
 their reasons for leaving an interval of ten or twelve miles between that 
 part of the Central railroad already put under contract from Galena 
 south, and that part proposed by the Board of Public Works to be put 
 under contract during the ensuing six months, east from Savannah tow- 
 ards Rock river:" the Board have to report that, in making their deci- 
 sion, they had in view the 25th section of the internal improvement law; 
 by which it will be seen that they are required to commence at the nav- 
 igable streams, <fcc. If, however, in the wisdom of the Legislature, it 
 should be found more conducive to the public interest to proceed in a 
 continuous line, the change could be made without in the least affect- 
 ing or producing any disconcert whatever in the arrangement of the 
 Board. 
 
 Respectfully, 
 
 Your obedient servant, 
 
 WILLIAM KINNEY, 
 
 President B. P. W. 
 
 WILLIAM PRENTISS, 
 Seoetary B. P. W.
 
 A. 
 
 MAT 24, 1838. 
 
 At a meeting of the citizens of Galena, convened at the court-house 
 the 44th of May, 1838, Elijah Charles, Esq. was called to the chair, 
 and Reuben W. Brush appointed secretary. The following resolu- 
 tions were adopted: 
 
 Resohed, That a committee of five be appointed to enter into a cor 
 respondence with Col. J. \V. Stephenson, acting Commissioner of Public 
 Works for the sixth judicial circuit, to ascertain from him what has been 
 and will be done in relation to the northern termination of the Central 
 railroad, and to report at a subsequent meeting of the citizens. 
 
 The following named gentlemen were appointed by the chair, that 
 committee: John Stark, T< Drummond, Chas. S. Hempstead, R. W. 
 Carson, J. Wycth. 
 
 Resolved, That said committee transmit to said Commissioner a copy 
 of the proceedings of a meeting of the citizens of Galena, held on the 
 l?th iust., on this subject, and request from him an answer expressive of 
 his views therein. And then the meeting adjourned till Monday, at 
 5 o'clork, P. M. 
 
 ELIJAH CHARLES, Chairman. 
 
 REUBEN W. BRUSH, Secretary. 
 
 MAY '28, 1838. 
 
 The committee appointed on the 24th inst. under the following reso- 
 lution: 
 
 "Resolved, Tha* a committee of five be appointed to enter into a cor- 
 respondence with Col. J. W. Stephenson, acting Commissioner of Public 
 Works for the sixth judicial circuit, to ascertain Irom him what has been 
 done and what will be done, in relation to the northern termination of 
 the Central railroad, and to report to a subsequent meeting of the citi- 
 zens," beg leave to submit the following report: 
 
 That on Friday afternoon, '25th inst., they sent a letter to Col. Jas. W. 
 Stephenson, acting Commissioner for this circuit, a copy of which is 
 herunto annexed, but have not received any reply thereto. 
 
 JOHN STARK, 
 T. DRUMMOND, 
 C. S. HEMPSTEAD, 
 R. W. CARSON, 
 J. WYETH. 
 
 GALENA, May 25, 1838. 
 
 To Col. JAS. W. STEPHENSON, 
 
 Acting Commissioner of Board Public Works for Sixth Circuit. 
 SIR: At a meeting of the citizens of Galena held yesterday, a copy 
 of the prcceedings of which are here enclosed, the undersigned were 
 appointed a committee to correspond with the Commissioner for this 
 circuit upon matters expressed in the copy of the proceedings.
 
 They were also directed to furnish the Commissioner with a copy of 
 the proceedings of a meeting held on the l7th inst., and which is also 
 here enclosed. 
 
 The committee deem it due both to the inhabitants of Galena and to 
 the Commissioner, to endeavor to disclose, as fully as possible, the state 
 of public feeling and sentiment upon the subject of the termination of 
 the Central railroad; and the committee will not believe, for one mo- 
 ment, that the wishes and opinions of the community, when once un- 
 derstood, will be disregarded, however widely the citizens and the Com- 
 missioner may differ in the construction of the law. 
 
 An impression prevails in the minds of the citizens, that the line of 
 the railroad has been laid out so that the termination must of necessity 
 be on the eastern bank of Fever river, and that it is not intended that 
 the road shall cross the river. 
 
 Whether this impression be correct or not, the committee have no 
 means of positively knowing, having never seen any official statement 
 or admission of the fact. 
 
 But the impression, whether correct or not, has called forth a decided 
 and almost unanimous declaration of opinion from the citizens, that they 
 consider that to locate the termination of the railroad on the eastern 
 side of Fever river, would be highly injurious to their interests. 
 
 A large majority of the citizens, among whom are the members of 
 this committee, do not think that the law has even left it optional with 
 the Commissioners to terminate the railroad on either side of the river. 
 They think that the law makes it obligatory on them to terminate it 
 on the west side. 
 
 The committee do not propose to argue the question at this time; 
 they only wish to state facts as to the opinions and sentiments of the 
 public. 
 
 Upon this branch of the subject, it only remains to state that, in case 
 the impression above alluded to be correct, it is the expressed wish of 
 at least ninetcen-twentieths of the inhabitants of Galena, that a re- 
 survey be made, or other measures lakcn to locate the termination of the 
 road at the west side of Fever river. 
 
 The committee beg leave most respectfully to inquire of the Com- 
 missioner what has already been done under authority of the Inter- 
 nal Improvement law, and what will be done in relation to the northern 
 termination of the Central railroad; and, in further pursuance of their 
 instructions from the meeting, they have to request the Commissioner 
 to favor them with an expression of his views upon the proceedings of 
 the seventeenth instart. 
 
 With sentiments of respect, 
 
 Your friends and obedient servants, 
 
 JOHN STARK, 
 T. DRUMMOND, 
 C. S. HEMPSTEAD, 
 R. W. CARSON, 
 J. WYETH.
 
 B. 
 
 TRUSTEES' OEFICE, GALENA., May 28, 1838. 
 
 Whereas, in the opinion of this Board, the present location of the 
 northern termination of the Central railroad on the east side of Fever 
 river is a measure hostile to the interests of this town, and in violation 
 of law: 
 
 Now, therefore, we the trustees, in town council convened, do hereby 
 protest against the present location of the said northern termination, 
 and request the Board of Public Works to order a re-survey of the line 
 to Galena, in such a way as fully to redress the grievance. This protest 
 to be forwarded to the Board of Public Works, under the seal of the 
 corporation. 
 
 In testimony whereof, we have hereunto set our names, this 
 L. s. ] 28th May, 1&38, and caused the seal of the corporation to 
 be hereunto affixed. 
 
 DAN. WANN, Preset P. T. 
 H. H. GEAR, 
 JOHN DOWLING, 
 JOHN L. SLAYMAKER, 
 DUDLEY SIMMONS, 
 D. B. MOREHOUSE. 
 Attest: W. B. GREEN, CFk. 
 
 MAY !28, 1838. 
 
 The meeting of the citizens convened on the 24th inst. for the pur- 
 pose of taking into consideration the termination of the Central rail- 
 road, and adjourned to this day, met agreeable to adjournment; Elijah 
 Charles, Esq. in the chair, and R. W. Brush, secretary. 
 
 The proceedings of the former meeting were read, and the committee 
 appointed under a resolution passed at said meeting made report that 
 they had addressed a communication to Col. Jas. W. Stephenson, Com- 
 missioner of the Board of Public Works for the sixth judicial circuit, on 
 the subject alluded to in said resolutions, but had received no answer. 
 A copy of the communication was read by the charirman of said com- 
 mittee, and the report accepted. 
 
 The following resolutions were offered and adopted: 
 
 Resolved, That the proceedings of this meeting, and of former meet- 
 ings on this subject, be published in the papers of Galena, and trans- 
 mitted to the Board of Public Works at Vandalia, signed by the chair- 
 man and secretary. 
 
 Resolved, That a committee be appointed to address a communication, 
 explanatory ol the proceedings above alluded to, to the Commissioners 
 of Public Works at Vandalia. 
 
 The following named gentlemen were appointed by the chair, that 
 committee: Thomas Drummond, William Smith, and Daniel Wann. 
 
 Resolved, That the committee of correspondence appointed at the 
 first meeting, whenever they shall receive an answer from the acting
 
 8 
 
 Commissioner of the Board of Public Works for the sixth judicial circuit, 
 on the subject of their communication of the 25th inst., cause the same 
 to be published in the papers of Galena, and transmit a copy to the 
 Board of Public Works at Vandalia. 
 
 Resolved, That the meeting adjourn sine die. 
 
 ELIJAH CHARLES, Chairman. 
 
 REUBEN W. BRUSH, Secretary. 
 
 GALENA, May 29, 1838. 
 
 To the BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 
 
 of Public Works for the State of Illinois. 
 
 GENTLEMEN: At a very large meeting of the citizens of Galena held 
 yesterday, the undersigned were appointed a committee to send a com- 
 munication to your Board explanatory of certain proceedings which 
 have taken pl.ice at various public meetings of the citizens, convened 
 for the purpose of expressing their views in relation to the northern 
 termination of <he Central railroad; and, in compliance with the wishes 
 of their fellow citizens, they now address you. 
 
 At the time of the passage of the act to establish and maintain a sys- 
 tem of Internal Improvement, Feb. 27, 1837, the town of Galena was 
 almost entirely situated on the west bank of Fever river, and so it still 
 remains. It being understood that the acting Commissioner for this 
 circuit had terminated the Central railroad on the east side of the river, 
 at some considerable distance from the centre of business and popula- 
 tion, it was proposed to call a public meeting in order to express the 
 sentiments of the citizens upon the subject. The survey had been made, 
 it was believed, and the road so terminated that it never could be, at any 
 future time, brought across the river; and as it was supposed that avast 
 majority of the people of this town were of the opinion that the rail- 
 road ought to terminate on the west bank of Fever river; that the depot 
 should be there established, and that the law contemplated that it should 
 terminate on the west side of the river, the president and trustees of the 
 town, on the loth inst., requested a meeting of the citizens for the pur- 
 pose of taking the subject into consideration. Accordingly, on the 17th 
 instant, a meeting of the citizens took place in pursuance of the call of 
 the trustees; at which meeting several resolutions were passed almost 
 unanimously; and we herewith enclose to your Board a copy of the pro- 
 ceedings of that meeting. 
 
 The Board will observe that a preamble to the resolutions declares 
 that the law contemplated that the road should terminate on the west 
 bank of the river. We do not ; ntend,at this time, to enter into a gen- 
 eral argument to show that such is the true construction of the law. We 
 will merely state that the acts of Congress laying off the town of Ga- 
 lena, and the proceedings of the commissioners appointed under the last 
 of those acts the limits of the town as defined and understood at the 
 time of the passage of the Internal Improvement law what took place 
 before the committee on Internal Improvements when a proposition was 
 introduced that the road should end on the east side of (lie river, and 
 rejected the position and situation of the town itself, then and now, all 
 conclusively prove, to the satisfaction of the citizens of this town, that
 
 9 
 
 it is the spirit and meaning of the law that the railroad should ter- 
 minate on tlie west bank of the river. 
 
 We think also that it can easily be made to appear, not only that such 
 is the proper construction of the law, b it that it is for the best interests 
 of the town and State now, and for all time to come, that the road should 
 so terminate; but the undersigned have not time to enter into this branch 
 of the subject, as it would lead them into too extensive a field of inves- 
 tigation. They would only refer to the various proceedings which have 
 taken place at the public meetings, where those most acquainted with 
 the matter, and therefore best capable of judging, have expressed their 
 opinions. 
 
 A meeting of the citizens was subsequently convened on the 22d in- 
 stant, with a view of taking measures to commemorate the commence- 
 ment of the railroad, and a committee of arrangements was appointed, but, 
 owing to some misunderstanding with the acting Commissioner, nothing 
 was ever done} and they were discharged. 
 
 A meeting was also held on the 24th instant, a copy of the proceed- 
 ings of which is herewith enclosed; at which meeting a committee was 
 appointed to enter into a correspondence with Col. Stephenson, the 
 acting Commissioner for this circuit. Accordingly that committee did 
 address a letter to Col. Stephenson, a true copy of which we beg leave 
 herewith to enclose. The letter was delivered to the Commissioner on 
 the afternoon of the 25th instant. Agreeably to the adjournment of the 
 meeting of the 24th, another meeting took place yesterday, the proceed- 
 ings of which we also beg leave to enclose herewith. At yesterday's 
 meeting the committee of correspondence reported that, up to that time, 
 Col. Stephenson had given no reply to their communication; and up to 
 this day no reply has yet been received by the committee. The Board 
 will perceive the committee are directed to forward to you a copy of any 
 answer which may be hereafter received from Col. Stephenson-, which 
 will of course be done. 
 
 At the meeting yesterday, a member of the committee of correspon- 
 dence stated that he had had some conversation with Col. Stephenson, 
 who informed him, and requested him to inform the meeting, that his en- 
 gagements had been such that it had not been in his power to reply to 
 the committee. But as it was uncertain whether the reply of the Com- 
 missioner would be received in season to be laid before your Board at its 
 semi-annual meeting on the 4th of June next, it was considered advisa- 
 ble to transmit at once the proceedings of the various meetings of the 
 citizens, together with an explanatory letter. 
 
 The undersigned have been requested also to forward to you a protest 
 of the president and trustees of the town, against the termination of the 
 road on the east side of the river, and several petitions to your Board, 
 calling for a re-survey of the route; and they accordingly herewith en- 
 close the papers referred to, and ask for them an attentive considera- 
 tion, as they contain the signatures of a large portion of our most re- 
 spectable citizens. 
 
 As an act of justice to Co!. Stephenson, we deem it our duty to add, 
 that it is a matter of great regret to us, that his health and his engage- 
 ments have been such as to prevent him from making a full statement of 
 all that has been done in relation to the termination of the railroad, as
 
 10 
 
 we do not doubt that a letter from him to the committee of correspon- 
 dence would explain many things in regard to which there is now much 
 misapprehension among his fellow-citizens. But it seems to be rendered 
 certain that the Commissioner has determined that the road should ter- 
 minate on the east bank of the river; and it is against this general con- 
 clusion of the Commissioner that the citizens of this town protest. 
 
 It is no exaggeration to say that the feeling which has been manifested 
 and which now exists among our citizens, in relation to this subject, is 
 intense. The people feel that they have been aggrieved by the decision 
 of the acting Commissioner for this circuit; and they appeal to your 
 Board for redress. 
 
 The simply ask justice; they request that respect should be paid to 
 their rights; they do not approach your Board to crave favors; they are 
 willing that the Commissioners should lay out and terminate the railroad 
 with the law in their hands to guide and direct them in their operations. 
 To this they think they may justly lay claim. To the law, fairly and 
 liberally construed, they are willing to pay obedience, and they doubt 
 not that the Commissioners will do the same. This is all that the 
 people of Galena demand. 
 
 We ask from the Board a candid and respectful consideration of these 
 sentiments and opinions thus frankly expressed. We do not present 
 them as the result of temporary ebullitions of feeling, but a deep and 
 settled conviction of the citizens of Galena. 
 On behalf of the citizens. 
 
 Very respectfully, 
 
 Your obedient servants, 
 
 T. DRUMMOND, 
 DANIEL WANN, 
 WM. SMITH, 
 
 Committee.
 
 11 
 
 c. 
 
 To the BOARD OP PUBLIC WORKS. 
 
 GENTLEMEN: The termination of the Central railroad at Galena seems, 
 by the proceedings of the numerous late meetings of the citizens of Ga- 
 lena, to produce discontent and something of excitement. 
 
 Now, I will simply remark that they are premature in all their pro- 
 ceedings, in regard to this subject, inasmuch as I have no more know- 
 Jedge of the point of termination than either of you have. In regard to 
 another survey, I have proposed to give it to them. For further particu- 
 lars 1 refer you to Mr. Gilbert. My belief is that the true interest of the 
 town requires a depot on both sides of the river. 
 Very respectfully, 
 
 Your obedient servant, 
 
 JAMES W. STEPHENSON. 
 
 GALENA, May 24, 1838. 
 Hon. WILLIAM KINNKT, 
 
 Chairman of the Board of PuWtc Works of the State of Illinois. 
 
 SIR: A considerable excitement is created in this community, since 
 it has become known that the acting Commissioner of the sixth judicial 
 circuit has fixed upon the east side of Fever river for the termination of 
 the railroad. A meeting of the citizens was held about ten days ago, for 
 the purpose of taking the subject into consideration, and expressing their 
 views thereon. The resolutions passed at that meeting afford evidence 
 of their entire disapprobation, as you will perceive by the enclosed paper. 
 
 The inhabitants of Galena have supposed that so much deference at 
 least would be paid to this expression of their views as to cause a sus- 
 pension of the works on the first section; that a resurvey would be made 
 of that section, with a view to passing the railroad to the west side by 
 means of a bridge; and that the whole case would be submitted to the 
 Board for their decision at the meeting to be held next Monday week. 
 
 Having been disappointed in this reasonable expectation, and unwil- 
 ling" to chaunt their own requiem," they have determined to postpone, 
 indefinitely, the contemplated celebration of breaking ground, for which 
 preparations have been made as you will learn by the enclosed hand- 
 bill. 
 
 Feeling, as I do, a deeep interest in whatever may operate on the wel- 
 fare of Galena, from a long residence, extensive business, with a large 
 amount of real estate within its bounds, and likewise in my capacity of 
 a trustee of the town, I beg leave to lay my views on the subject before 
 your honorable Board, believing that, on a full view of the case, they 
 may be induced to pause and reflect before taking a definite action in 
 so important a case. 
 
 And'first I consider the decision of the acting Commissioner to lo- 
 cate the terminus of the railroad on the east side of Fever river, to be in
 
 12 
 
 direct contravention of the law; because, at the time of the enactment of 
 the law, Galena was not on the east, but wholly on the west side of the 
 river; and to this day, there is not over a d ozen houses on that side. 
 
 Secondly. Because such location would be ruinous to the interests of 
 the inhabitants. It would increase the obstructions on the river. It 
 would greatly impede the navigation by steamboats, and often jeopar- 
 dize the safety of passengers and freight in the ferry-boats; whilst the 
 extra charges consequent on the deposite of goods in the depot, and trans- 
 portation Irom thence to the merchants' store in Galena, would more 
 than equal the price of transportation of those goods from Savannah, 
 and the drayage to the store. 
 
 If this be true, why construct a railroad from Savannah to Galena? 
 Why not terminate it at the former place? 
 
 Besides, it is a well known fact that nearly all our trade is derived 
 from the west side of the river. There also are our mineral grounds, 
 and our furnaces, our dwellings and improvements. Our territorial 
 neighbors, too, will not willingly submit to the inconvenience and extra 
 expense of transporting their lead by a. ferry to the depot. 
 
 In view of the low grounds (subject to overflow, and at this time under 
 water) on which the termination is fixed, and of all the circumstances of 
 the case, it would be difficult to assign any valid reason for the decision 
 of the acting Commissioner. On the contrary, it is believed that, had 
 the survey been carried up four feet higher (with a view to cross the 
 river opposite to Galena by a bridge) the road might have been made at 
 considerable less expense, whilst the distance would have been shortened. 
 There are commanding sites for bridges, both at the upper and lower 
 ends of the town, and almost immediately on a line with a point fixed 
 on for the termination. Stone is abundant on the spot; the bluffs on 
 each side afford ready made foundations for abutments, and the distance 
 across does not probably exceed 200 feet. 
 
 Besides, generally speaking, in the fall and in the spring, at the wash- 
 ing and breaking up of the ice, there is a week or ten days each, that 
 the passage of the liver by the ferry-boat is impracticable. 
 
 It is not to be disguised th it there is a most decided opposition to the 
 present location on the part of this whole community. They had wel- 
 comed the introduction into this State of the system of internal improve- 
 ment, as a great public benefit, by means of the facilities it would afford 
 of communication with distant parts of the State-, and with other States. 
 This decision has entirely blasted their hopes; and they will be forced, if 
 persisted in, to consider this railroad as a curse, instead of a blessing. 
 
 There is another view of the subject, which I beg leave to present for 
 consideration, namely, the importance of securing public favor towards 
 the system of public improvements. If, in the construction of these 
 roads, the public good is to be sacrificed to individual benefits; if they 
 are to be located without due reference to the wants and convenience of 
 the immediate community though which they may pass, and of the State 
 generally, then will the people veto the whole system.. 
 
 Permit me to 1 request the favor of an answer, and to offer an assur- 
 ance of great respect and consideration. 
 
 H. H. GEAR.
 
 13 
 
 RAILROAD CELEBRATION. 
 
 The citizens of Galena and vicinity are respectfully invited to meet at 
 the Coart-house, on Monday morning next, at 9 o'clock, for the purpose 
 of celebrating the breaking gjound on the northern termination of the 
 great Central lailroad. The citizens of Dubuque. Mineral Point, and 
 the adjoining counties, are also respectfully invited to join in the celebra- 
 tion under the following order of the committee of arrangement. 
 
 ORDER OF PROCESSION. 
 
 Music. 
 
 Marshal of the day. 
 President and Trustees of the town. 
 
 Clergy and Orator of the day. 
 Commissioners, Engineers and Contractors. 
 , ., ( Laborers, with their ? m, , , 
 
 Second Marshal, J implements. j Third Marshal. 
 
 Members of Mechanics' Institute. 
 
 Fire Companies. 
 Hook and Ladder Company. 
 
 Members of the Bar. 
 Citizens and Strangers. 
 
 President, Vice-President, and officers of the Chamber of Commerce. 
 Fourth Marshal. Fifth Marshal. 
 
 The committee appointed the following gentlemen to act as Marshals 
 on the occasion: 
 
 Capt. H. H. Gear, Messrs. Philip Barry, Wm. B. Green, George M. 
 Mitchell, Legrand Morehouse. 
 
 The procession will form at the Court-house, and proceed down Main 
 street to the steamboat landing, where it will embark on board of boats 
 prepared for the occasion to take them to the vicinity ol the place where 
 the work is to commence. 
 
 A general invitation is respectfully tendered to the Indies of Galena, 
 and the surrounding country, to repair on board the boats previous to 
 the time of the procession reaching it. 
 
 03~ The business men of Galena are requested to close their stores 
 and shops on that day. 
 
 PHILIP BARRY, 
 GEORGE M. MITCHELL, 
 JOHN L. SLAYMAKER, 
 JOHN H. WEBBER, 
 H. H. GEAR, 
 WM. SMITH, 
 
 Committee of Arrangement. 
 GALENA, May 23, 1838.
 
 14 
 
 GALENA, May 28, 1838. 
 To WILLIAM KINNEY, Esq. 
 
 President of the Board of Public Works for Illinois. 
 SIR: By the annexed printed account of a public meeting the citizens 
 of Galena, held on the 17th inst., it will be perceived that it is made my 
 duly, as chairman of that meeting, to transmit to the Board of Public 
 Works for Illinois a copy of their proceedings, which I now beg leave 
 to do through you, (as the President of the Board) for their consideration, 
 and such action as may be deemed right and proper. 
 
 I am, very respectfully, 
 
 CHARLES S. HEMPSTEAD. 
 
 COMMUNICATION. 
 
 . At a large and respectable meeting of the citizens of the town of Ga- 
 lena, held at the Court-house on the 1 7th May, 1838, convened for the 
 object of taking into consideration the termination of the Central rail- 
 road, Charles JS. Hempstead was called to the chair, and R. W. Brush 
 appointed secretary. 
 
 The following preamble and resolutions were adopted: 
 
 Whereas the law provides that the northern termination of the Cen- 
 tral railroad should be in the town of Galena; and 
 
 Whereas, at the time of the passage of said law, Galena was on tlve 
 west side of Fever river; and 
 
 W hercas the location of the termination on the east side would cause a 
 great depreciation in the value of property on the west side of the river, 
 and operate injuriously on the mercantile interest, by the extra charges 
 on the reception and delivery of goods: Therefore, 
 
 Resolved, That the interest of the whole town of Galena imperatively 
 demands that the northern termination of the Central railroad should 
 be on the west side of Fever river; and that we, the citizens of Galena, 
 have a right to be heard in the matter, and will use all proper and law- 
 ful means to secure the location of that termination on the west side of 
 Fever river. 
 
 Resolved, That the proceedings of this meeting be forwarded to the 
 Commissioners of Internal Improvements for the sixth judicial circuit, 
 and to the Board of Internal Improvements, and be published in the 
 newspapers of Galena. 
 
 CHARLES S. HEMPSTEAD, Chairman. 
 
 R. W. BRUSH, Secretary. 
 
 GALENA, May 28, 1838. 
 Hon. WILLIAM KINNEY, 
 
 Chairman of the Board of Public Works, Vandalia. 
 SIR: In my communication of the 24th inst., (of which I transmit a 
 duplicate herewith, in case of accident to the original,) 1 omitted to 
 draw your attention to the Chicago and Wisconsin railroad, in connec- 
 tion with that of Illinois.
 
 15 
 
 In case the latter should be passed to the west side by a bridge, and a 
 depot established Acre, the junction would naturally be made from the 
 ridge by which the former could reach this place, and with equal advan- 
 tage at either extremity of the town at which the bridge might be placed; 
 bu; if the terminus contemplated by the acting Commissioner should be 
 adopted, it cannot reasonably be expected a junction would be formed 
 here by either of them, inasmuch as the passage of the river, being by 
 means of ferry, would make it necessary for tiiem to establish a depot on 
 this side, and the cost of transportation would be increased by drayage to 
 the boat and ferryage across. Comment seems unnecessary. 
 I remain, very respectfully, 
 
 Your most obedient servant, 
 
 H. H. GEAR. 
 
 D. 
 
 CENTRAL RAILROAD OFFICE, 
 
 Dixon, December 4, 183S. 
 To JOHN DIXON, Esq. 
 
 Acting Commissioner of the Sixth Judicial Cercuit. 
 
 SIR: Having completed the preliminary surveys of the Central rail- 
 road in that part of the sixth judicial circuit west of the Winnebago 
 swamp, agreeably to your instructions, I have now the honor of present- 
 ing to you the following statement of the nature of the route and the 
 estimated cost of grading the same. 
 
 Of that portion of the road extending from Galena southerly, twenty 
 miles located and put under contract in May last, by order of the Board 
 of Commissioners of Public Woaks, estimates, maps, and profiles have 
 been duly rendered. 
 
 The progress of the work upon this division may be seen by reference 
 to the annexed tabular statement, which exhibits the various kinds of 
 work that has been done up to the 26th of November, 1838. The con- 
 tracts let in may last were taken, mostly, by efficient and responsible 
 contractors; and, notwithstanding the unfavorable circumstances which 
 were calculated to retard the progress of the work during the sickly sea- 
 son, the work, with the exception of Dr. Powers' and Dougherty's con- 
 tracts, have been prosecuted with an energy highly commendable to the 
 contractors now engaged upon the work. The unusual difficulty expe- 
 rienced in this section of the country, last season, of procuring laborers, 
 will, mrst probably, render it impossible to complete the grading of the 
 whole division by the time specified in the contracts. 
 
 The nature of the work, as found during the progress that has been 
 made, is quite as favorable as was anticipated, and it is confidently be- 
 lieved that the work can and will be completed without undergoing any 
 change from the present contract prices. 
 
 The line from the southerly termination of that part of the road now 
 under contract has been finally located as far as Savannah, and is here 
 designated as the third division south of Galena distance, ten and four- 
 fifth miles.
 
 16 
 
 The line, as located, continues down the valley of the Mississippi to 
 Savannah, pass ngover favorable ground for the construction of the road, 
 except the last two miles above Savannah. Here the high ground border- 
 ing on the Mississippi terminates with bold, and, in several places, with 
 almost perpendicular banks, which rise to the height of 2(JO to 200 feet 
 above the river. This is the only point attended with any difficulty. 
 The line approaches near the river, and that to a very steep side hill. At 
 each of the points, it is proposed to build a supporting wall on the river 
 side. The steep side hill along which the line is traced is composed 
 principally of rock, and will furnish a sufficient supply of stone suitable 
 for the supporting wall, culverts, &c., required on this division. The 
 location of the line between Galena and Savannah is unavoidably confin- 
 ed to the valleys of Fever and Mississippi rivers, without the le?st posibil- 
 ity of deviating therefrom. The views of many individuals in relation to 
 the location of the road, in this vicinity, seem to demand a brief explana- 
 tion of the difficulty that would have to be encountered in order to meet 
 their views, by adopting a location more into the interior of the country. 
 The formatiou of the ground in this vicinity presents, throughoul, an 
 irregular and broken surface. The dividing ridges between the several 
 streams that empty into the Mississippi rise to the height of 250 to 300 
 foet above the bottomland of the valleys. From the known difficulties 
 which here exist, it is evident that a route passing into the interior of 
 the country, or deviating from the valley route, would be entirely im- 
 practicable. 
 
 Estimate of the probable cost of the third division. 
 
 104,134 cubic yards excavation, at 18 cents - * '*" $18,744 12 
 
 17,3.36 cubic yards solid rock excavation, at $1 35 22,502 80 
 
 17,356 cubic yards loose rock excavation, at 60 cents 10,4 13 tiO 
 
 14:3,840 cubic yards of embankment, at 20 cents 28,568 00 
 
 300 perches rubble hammered masonry for bridge 
 
 abutments, at $6 - 1,800 00 
 
 2 arched culverts, at $250 each - ; - .500 00 
 
 4 square culverts, at $100 each - 40000 
 
 4,518 cubic yards supporting-wall, at $1 *'--' 4,54800 
 
 Grubbing and clearing - '. , 1,1 ; 00 00 
 
 Total cost of ten and four-fifth miles - |V $8s,?36 52 
 
 Cost per mile- . $8.21633 
 
 The location of the line between Savannah and the Winnebago swamp 
 Deemed at first to present many difficulties of such a nature that the com- 
 parative advantages of the different routes could not be ascertained, 
 without a careful mstrunental examination of a large extent of country. 
 A part of our examination was made with a view to comply, if possi- 
 ble, with the general instructions of the Board of Commissioners, requir- 
 ing (at that time) the location of roads to be made with a view to a
 
 maximum grade of forty feet per mile. This could only be effected by 
 continuing down the valley of the Mississippi some 18 or 20 miles be- 
 low Savannah, thence through to Rock river by the valley of the Cat-tail 
 
 It is almost needless to say that such a location would not benefit the 
 country, or even carry out the main object sought to be accomplished 
 by the construction of the works. 
 
 The next line examined between Savannah and the Upper rapids on 
 Rock river, continues down the valley of the Mississippi about eight 
 miles; leaving the valley, the line then follows up the valley of Johnson's 
 creek to the dividing ridge between Johnson and Little Rock creeks; 
 thence to Rock river, passing over an undulating and broken surface. 
 The principal difficulty encountered on this line is the crossing of seve- 
 ral branches of the tittle Rock and Elkhorn creeks, The general direc- 
 tion of these streams are about at right angles to the course of the line. 
 The maximum grade, by this route, is 71 feet per mile. 
 
 At the time these examinations were made, my division extended only 
 to Rock river each line corresponding with the examinations that 
 were made by the engineer in charge of the surveys in the seventh ju- 
 dicicl circuit. 
 
 According to given instructions of August last, my examinations 
 were continued south of the river to the Winnebago swamp, connecting 
 with the line as finally located from this place to Peru. 
 
 It may be proper here to remark that, from the several examinations 
 made in 18 ; 7, it was ascertained that the most favorable point of cros- 
 sing the Winnebago swamp was at the Rocky ford; this, then, being de- 
 termined, our subsequent surveys were directed to this point. 
 
 During the surveys made through this section of country, upwards of 
 220 miles have been instrumentally examined. Maps, profiles, and esti- 
 mates have been made of such lines as appearedt o be the most favorable; 
 and after comparing the results of the different lines, I have selected the 
 one that was found least expensive and be?t suited to the wants of the 
 cruntry. For a more particular and detailed description of this route, 
 I beg leave to submit to you the report of G. W. Clarke, as exhibiting 
 the result of our examinations. 
 
 From the geographical position of this part of the country, it will 
 be seen that the country to the southwest of this route has, at most 
 seasons of the year, the benefit conferred upon it by the navigation of the 
 Mississippi; consequently, the advantages resulting to the work are by 
 no means so great or beneficial to the country as it will be by adopting 
 the northern route. 
 
 It is evident that the further into the interior this road can be carried, 
 without incurring additional expense in connecting the points named in 
 the internal improvement law, .the greater will be the benefit resulting 
 from it. 
 
 Another and an important consideration is, that this route passes 
 through tho most beautiful and fertile section of country to be found 
 between the Mississippi and Rock rivers. The rapidity with which this 
 portion of the country is now settling, and the evident prosperity of the 
 town of Dixon, Buffalo Grove, the Elkhorn, and Prestonville settle- 
 I
 
 18 
 
 ments, furnish sufficient evidence to justify the conclusion, that the loca- 
 tion, as here recommended, is decidedly best calculated to promote the 
 interests of Ihe work. 
 
 Respectfully submitted by your obedient servant, 
 
 W. B. GJ. BERT, Civil Engineer. 
 
 STATE OF ILLINOIS. Fayclte county: 
 
 Personally came before the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace in 
 and for said county, William B. Gilbert, and made oath that the facts 
 and statements by him set forth in the foregoing report, as engineer, and 
 signed by him, are true according to the best of his knowledge and 
 belief. 
 
 Given under my hand and seal this 8th day of January, 1839. 
 
 W. HODGE, J. P.-F. C. 
 
 Table of Grades for Third Division south of Galena. 
 
 No. of grades. 
 
 Distances, in feet. 
 
 Inclination per 
 mile. 
 
 Direction of each grade. 
 
 1 
 
 .'2100 
 
 11.5 
 
 Ascending. 
 
 2 
 
 .3000 
 
 46.8 
 
 Descending. 
 
 3 
 
 1.1520 
 
 
 
 Level. 
 
 4 
 
 .4000 
 
 51.2 
 
 Ascending, 
 
 5 
 
 .4000 
 
 6.7 
 
 Descending. 
 
 6 
 
 .2900 
 
 5.6 
 
 Ascending. 
 
 7 
 
 .2500 
 
 7.6 
 
 Descending. 
 
 8 
 
 .380) 
 
 60.4 
 
 Descending. 
 
 9 
 
 .1500 
 
 49.7 
 
 Ascending. 
 
 10 
 
 .5100 
 
 T2.3 
 
 Descending. 
 
 11 
 
 1.1220 
 
 7.3 
 
 Ascending. 
 
 12 
 
 .1500 
 
 27.6 
 
 Ascending. 
 
 13 
 
 .1500 
 
 23.9 
 
 Descending. 
 
 14 
 
 1.1200 
 
 
 
 Level. 
 
 15 
 
 .3500 , 
 
 14.6 
 
 Descending. 
 
 16 
 
 .2100 
 
 28.8 
 
 Ascending, 
 
 Total 
 
 10 4-5 miles 
 
 
 
 To WILLIAM B. GILBERT, Esq. 
 
 Senior Assistant Engineer on the Central Railroad. 
 
 SIR: After having completed the experimental surveys committed to 
 my charge, between Savannah, on the Mississippi, and Rocky ford in 
 Winnebago swamp, lam enabled to present the following report, which 
 is respectfully submittcgU 
 
 The route has been divided into the following five divisions, viz: 
 
 First division, from Savannah to one mile east of Prestonville. 
 
 Second division, from one mile east of Prestonville to the junction of 
 the line with the Galena road, three miles west of Chamber's grove.
 
 19 
 
 Third division, from last point to St. Marion, in Buffalo grove. 
 
 Fourth division, from St. Marion to Dixon,on Rock river. 
 
 Fifth divi- in, from Dixon to Rocky ford. 
 
 The route lias also been sub-divided into 49 sections, corresponding 
 to the grades. The excavation and embankment have been calculated 
 for each section, but, for convenience, the totals for each division are 
 here exhibited in table B appended. The remarks which follov, will 
 refer to the divisions, in order, commencing with the 
 
 FIRST DIVISION. 
 
 From Savannah to the vicinity of the Small lakes, 4i miles to the 
 southeast of that place, the ground is admirably adapted to the cheap 
 construction of the road. Sand stone of a good quality is found here in. 
 abundance, for the .construction of the bridge across Plumb river, and 
 the culverts required in this section. From the vicinity of the Small 
 lakes, the summits of the dividing ridge between Straddle and John- 
 son's creeks, an elevation of near 200 feet is obtained by grades of 62 
 and 64 feet per mile. On such grades, at a velocity of 10 miles per 
 hour, a locomotive can draw but one-fourth the load it will draw on a 
 level; consequently, the load on the whole line would have to be accom- 
 modated to these steep grades, This fact shows the necessity of reduc- 
 ing the grades, if possible, even at an increased expense. With this ob- 
 ject in view, 1 made a reconnoissance of a route to the north of the 
 dividing ridge; commencing near Prestonville, following down a branch 
 to Straddle creek; down that creek to its confluence with Plumb river, 
 by the southeast side of said river to Bowen's saw-mill, crossing the 
 river at this place; thence by a favorable line to Savannah. It is to be 
 observed that the crossing of Plumb river ?.t this place is very good, as 
 both sides are furnished with solid rock abutments; and the only expense 
 will be the superstructure, which cannot exceed $4,000. The objec- 
 tions offered to this route are the crossings of Straddle creek several 
 times with bridges, and the increase of distance probably from a half 
 to three-fourths of a mile. This route is worthy of a survey before a 
 final location. 
 
 SECOND DIVISION. 
 
 This division, consisting of about 14' miles, contains but nine-tenths of 
 a mile of 3l feet grade, and the remainder all below 25 feet per mile. 
 The line here is on the top of the ridge, thereby avoiding culvert mason- 
 ry and expensive grading. 
 
 The soil of this, as of the preceding division, is of a rich alluvial char- 
 acter, and will present no difficult rock cutting. 
 
 This ridge divides the waters of Straddle creek on the north from 
 those of Little Rock river at the south, and, five miles east of Preston- 
 ville, is intersected by a ridge from the south, dividing the waters of 
 Johnson's creek from those of Little Rock river, at a hill which may be 
 appropriately called Ridge Knob. By keeping on the ridge, all those 
 objection, are avoided which must hold against aline run further south; 
 for it must necessarily cross the above named ridge, the marshy district 
 of Cat-tail swamp, the valley of Johnson's creek, and the valley of Little
 
 20 
 
 Rock river. In fact, it seems impossible to choose a line in this brolu 
 district of country, more admirably adapted for the construction of a 
 railroad than the one which has just been surveyed. 
 
 THIRD DIVISION. 
 
 From the end of the second division, the bottom of Middle creek is at- 
 tained by a descending grade of live feet per mile, for two miles. The 
 creek boitom is from five to six hundred feet wide, and of a gradual 
 slope, permitting the HHC, which is nearly straight here, to be located on 
 a dry and substantial soil. From the mouth of Middle creek, the line 
 ascends Elk"horn creek to Chamber's mill; one-fourth mile south of which it 
 commences to ascend the ridge at a grade of 63 feet per mile, lor near a 
 mile and a half; thence to Buffalo grove oy a gradual ascent, a distance 
 of 13J miles. For the distance of four and a half miles, the valleys of 
 Middle and Elkhorn creeks present a surface very even, and easily gradu- 
 ated, admitting of grades not exceeding 14 feet per mile. 
 
 Near the creek, in section 21, is found a horizontal strata of sand stone 
 easily quarried, which will .furnish stone for the culverts in this section, 
 and for the bridges across Middle and Elkhorn creeks. 
 
 It may be proper here to mention the probability of finding another 
 route, which may have the effect to shorten this division from two to 
 three miles. This proposed route commences at the end of the last divi- 
 sion, and, instead of descending to Middle creek, keeps the ridge to the 
 timber of Chamber's grove; descends to Elkhorn creek above Chamber's 
 mill, and ascends the valley of a large branch of Elkhorn which heads 
 near Buffalo grove. The allotted time for the completion of the survey 
 did not permit me to make a thorough reconnoissance of this part of the 
 country. 
 
 From the valley of Middle creek near its confluence with Elkhorn. 
 a line was run nine and a half miles in length, passing up a spur into the 
 main dividing ridge between Elkhorn and Eagle creeks. This line 
 passes half a mile west of Journay's store, continues the ridge to the 
 north of Waterberry's, claim; thence to an intersection with the line 
 previously run at Barr's on the west edge of Buffalo grove. It proved 
 250 feet longer than the one on which the estimate was made, and was 
 objectionable as regards curvature, there being a curve, near the creek, 
 of GOO feet radius. 
 
 FOURTH DIVISION. 
 
 This division commences at the flourishing little village of St. Marion, 
 in Buffalo grove, and extends to Dixon,on Rock river. 
 
 The alluvial character of the soil, and easy graduation of this, much 
 resembles that of the second division. 
 
 A bridge will be required to cross Rock river, of the following dimen- 
 sions: 630 feet in length; three arches 210 feet square; two piers 16 feet 
 thick, and 35 feet wide at the foundation, tapering to 1 1 feet thick and 
 3 1 feet wide at the springing of the arch. This bridge must have an 
 elevation of 35 feet above the common stage of water, so as not to inter- 
 fere with the steamboat navigation of Rock river. The width of the
 
 21 
 
 bridge to be 30 feet, so as to furnish a ro;ul-\vay for teams, and li 
 duct for the railroad, agreeably to the provision of the State law. The 
 estimat';<i cost of this bridge, calculated from the foregoing dimensions, 
 will be found in table B. Stone oi a suitable quality can be obtained 
 near at hand, and cannot exceed live dollars per perch. The superstruc- 
 ture on the plan of Col. Long, so generally adopted throughout the 
 Unit -:d State?, cannot fail to furnish ;\ permanent and beautiful ^ruc- 
 ture, partaking of that stability so honorable to State work-. 
 
 FIFTH DIVISION. 
 
 Oar last fi^d operation was the completion of this division on the fifth 
 of the present month. The distance irom Dixon to the end of this divi- 
 sion is 13.6 miles, somewhat shorter than the road. On this division 
 there are three miles of 5o feet grade; two miles of 30 feet; and the re- 
 maining grades not exceeding six feet per mile. 
 
 Route from the end of the Second Division, via Elklwrn grow, to its intersec- 
 tion with the former line at Rock riccr. 
 
 . It yet remains for me to give you some account of this line, on which 
 time has not permitted an estimate to be made. From near the Galena 
 road three miles west of Chambers grove, the line keeps the ridge to the 
 south, which it descends by a grade of 50 feet per mile, for two miles, to 
 Humphries 1 claim, where it crosses Elkhorn creek, and passes through 
 the fine timber of that grove, for four and a half miles. In this-distance 
 the line overcomes two summits the one on the ridge dividing the 
 waters of Elkhorn from those of Eagle creek, near .Morgan's claim; 
 the other at the school-house on Clark's claim, on the ridge dividing 
 Eagle creek from Buffalo creek. The first ridge is ascended by a grade 
 of 56 feet, and descended by a grade of 40 feet per mile. The second 
 ridge is ascended by a grade of 5*2 feet per mile, and descended by a 
 grade of 48 feet per mile. From the point which is now attained near 
 Thomas Wardin's house, the line proceeds across the valley of Buffalo 
 creek over, a gently undulating plain, to the Hamilton Mounds; thence 
 across the valleys of Sugar creek and Dry run, by the claims of Mr. Fel- 
 lows and Col. Stephenson, to Rock river. 
 
 The route on which the estimate is made is preferable to this as to 
 grades; though the undulations of this line are somewhat compensated 
 by the fine timber it passes through. 
 
 CURVATURE. 
 
 There are but two curves on the estimated line, of TOO feet radius; all 
 others exceed 1,900 feet radius the (irst offering a resistance of two 
 and a half pounds per ton, and the second near half a pound per ton. 
 The curvature will !>< diminished, and the line shortened, on a location. 
 
 Thus, you have a brief account of the survey since I entered the ser- 
 vice on the iiOth of August la>t. 
 
 While sickness made its ravages among several of the brigades in the 
 service, we must express our gratitude for the uniform good health 
 which has existed in the party during the whole campaign. 
 
 The members of the party generally have discharged their respective 
 duties in a very harmonious and satisfactory manner. Messrs. George 
 

 
 22 
 
 H. Hubbell and Henry \Vinir, my assistant*, hnvc been remarkably at- 
 tentive to their duties, and deserve the highest commendation. 
 
 After a careful examination of the country between the Mississippi 
 ami Rock rivers, ;ind considering that, 20 miles below Dixon, these 
 rivers appro-irh within 15 miles ofrach other, thereby in a measure su- 
 perceding Ihe necessity oi corn muni cation by a railroad. I must expre-, 
 my decided opinion in favor of Dixon, as a crossing place. This flour- 
 ishing town, beautifully situated on the banks of Rock river, become-- a 
 point necessarily independent of any local consideration, for it is but two 
 miK's north of a straight line drawn from Savanna!) to Ilo.-ky ford; and 
 in that distance, cither above or below the town, it wotiKi be impossible 
 to h'nd so favorabl". a crossing place. The water here is never known 
 to overflow its ban'x>, and abundance of stone is found on the margin 
 of the river. 
 
 The benefits conferred on the thickly settled groves of Elkhorn and 
 Buffalo, through which the road passes, and the great extent of fanning 
 country/which will be immediately benefited by it, are sufficient of 
 themselves to fix the location of the road in this favored land. The sa- 
 lubrity of the climate, and the fertility of the soil, must increase the un- 
 exampled emigration which has been flowing to this part of the State for 
 several year- past. The soil will support and enrich them; and when 
 we consider that one thousand . persons per week passed through Chi- 
 cago alone during this fall, on their way to this great and growing coun- 
 try, we see this view realized. 
 
 Independent of the immediate interests of her citizens, the State must 
 reap great advantages by the value o r the stock, which, like that of the 
 State improvement in New York and Pennsylvania, must become im- 
 mensely valuable, and yield a handsome revenue to her treasury. 
 
 The transportation of articles for the consumption of the "orthern 
 part of Illinois, and the population who are rapidly settling the Black 
 Hawk purchase in the new Territory of Iowa, must be done by the com- 
 munication which this road will open with the great chain of northern 
 lakes. Its construction is now loudly called for, when we consider 
 that the low stage of water in the Ohio and Mississippi has prevented 
 merchandize to the amount of more than a million of. dollars from as- 
 cending the river to supply the market of Galena above, and must now 
 be prevented from reaching its destination,, in consequence of the ice, 
 until the close of the winter season. 
 
 For the details of grade, distance, levels, &c., you are referred to 
 table A in the appendix. For the estimated cost of excavation and em- 
 bankment, &c., you are referred to table B. 
 
 It is to be remarked that the line obtained by survey is 06.9 miles in 
 length, and the distance between the extreme points in a straight line is 
 50 miles, thereby furnishing the favorable proportion of the straight line 
 to a curvilinear line for the railroad, as four is to five nearly. The 
 average cost is $4,*23(> per mile, which appears sufficiently liberal, con- 
 sidering the nature of the ground. 
 
 With the highest respect. 
 
 Your obedient servant, 
 
 GEORGE W. CLARKE, 
 Engineer on the Central Railroad.
 
 274 
 
 A. 
 Table exhibiting the route from Savannah via D-ixonrille, nn Rock river, to 
 
 u 
 
 ji 
 u 
 
 Inclinuiion. 
 
 < .'ra<!r per mile. 
 
 Milcn from Sa- 
 
 \aimali. 
 
 _ 
 c "r 1 
 Location. 
 
 1! 
 
 ! 5t 
 
 Descent 
 
 28.25 
 
 
 20.25 
 
 Savannah. 
 
 '. '..I 
 
 Level 
 
 . 
 
 1.309 
 
 4.20 
 
 Bottom land. 
 
 3 1 
 
 A-cent 
 
 
 1.998 
 
 27.60 
 
 Cross Rum river. 
 
 4 
 
 
 Descent 
 
 8.71 
 
 3.827 
 
 11.60 
 
 Near lakes. 
 
 5 
 
 1 .5 i 5 
 
 Ascent 
 
 64.-J4 
 
 5.342 
 
 110.00 
 
 Plough in prairie. 
 
 6 
 
 795 
 
 u 
 
 7.65 
 
 6.137 
 
 116.09 
 
 .. 
 
 1" 
 
 1,401 
 
 .. 
 
 62.H4 
 
 7.538 
 
 203.04 
 
 High mound. 
 
 8. 681 
 
 
 
 15.57 
 
 8.219 
 
 213.06 
 
 Summit. 
 
 9 
 
 1,439 
 
 Descent 
 
 12.40 
 
 9.653 
 
 196.20 
 
 Opposite Preston's. 
 
 10 
 
 1,590 
 
 Ascent 
 
 29.30 
 
 11.248 
 
 242.82 
 
 Master's house. 
 
 11 
 
 1,174 
 
 Descent 
 
 3.96 
 
 
 238.17 
 
 u 
 
 12 
 
 1,515 
 
 Ascent 
 
 7.92 
 
 13.937 
 
 
 Open prairie. 
 
 13 
 
 
 41 
 
 21.0-2 
 
 15.490 
 
 
 Ridge Knob. 
 
 14 
 
 1.212 
 
 U 
 
 5.01 
 
 16.702 
 
 289.01 
 
 u 
 
 15 
 
 1.742 
 
 Descent 
 
 6.33 
 
 18.444 
 
 277.07 
 
 Road to Dixon. 
 
 16 
 
 909 
 
 nt 
 
 25.08 
 
 19.353 
 
 301.01 
 
 't 
 
 17 
 
 1,515 
 
 Descent 
 
 3.16 
 
 20.868 
 
 296.21 
 
 On high ridge. 
 
 18 
 
 2,310 
 
 Ascent 
 
 9.50 
 
 23.173 
 
 318.17 
 
 " 
 
 19 
 
 946 
 
 .. 
 
 31.94 
 
 24.124 
 
 34 
 
 u 
 
 
 1,098 
 
 Level 
 
 - 
 
 25.222 
 
 - . 
 
 On ridge. 
 
 21 
 
 2,613 
 
 Descent 
 
 57..").") 
 
 27.835 
 
 198.00 
 
 Valley "of Middle creek. 
 
 
 2,651 
 
 .. 
 
 14.78 
 
 30.486 
 
 158.80 
 
 u 
 
 49 
 
 1,931 : 
 
 Ascent 
 
 7.39 
 
 
 173.08 
 
 Valley ofElkhorn. 
 
 24 
 
 1,704 
 
 .. 
 
 
 34421 
 
 261.98 
 
 Chamber's mill. 
 
 25 
 
 2,083 
 
 .. 
 
 5.91 
 
 36.204 
 
 294.30 
 
 u 
 
 26 
 
 
 .. 
 
 22.70 
 
 37.94G 
 
 333.86 
 
 . Canadian claim. 
 
 27 
 
 
 Descent 
 
 2.90 
 
 38.817 
 
 331.33 
 
 Barr's. 
 
 28 
 
 1,439 
 
 .. 
 
 66.00 
 
 40.256 
 
 236.33 
 
 Buffalo creek. 
 
 29 
 
 113 
 
 Level 
 
 . 
 
 40.369 
 
 - 
 
 St. Marion. 
 
 30 
 
 1.325 Accent 
 
 58.13 
 
 41.694 
 
 314.73 
 
 KelJog's claim. 
 
 31 
 32 
 
 -cent 
 
 28.51 
 12.67 
 
 43.436 
 
 265.0i 
 278.97 
 
 Steohenson's claim. 
 Prairie. 
 
 33 
 
 1,363 
 
 Descent 
 
 35.90 
 
 45.897 
 
 230.01 
 
 Gee's farm. 
 
 34 
 
 719 
 
 n 
 
 58.34 
 
 46.616 
 
 188.02 
 
 Dividing .ridge. 
 
 35 
 
 1,023 
 
 Ascent 
 
 46.20 
 
 47.639 
 
 237.02 
 
 Prairie. 
 
 36 
 
 2.197 
 
 " 
 
 5.96 
 
 49.836 
 
 250.12 
 
 Cross Galena road. 
 
 37 
 
 530 
 
 Descent 
 
 36.16 
 
 50.366 
 
 230.94 
 
 
 38 
 
 1,628 
 
 " 
 
 4.64 
 
 51.994 
 
 223.46 
 
 Charter's farm. 
 
 39 
 
 
 it 
 
 65.20 
 
 54.156 
 
 82.50 
 
 River hill. 
 
 40 
 
 217 
 
 Level 
 
 - 
 
 54.373 
 
 _ 
 
 Dixon. 
 
 WISXEBAOO DIVISION. 
 
 41 
 
 2.272 
 
 Ascent 
 
 58.13 
 
 56.645 
 
 216.90 Talmage's. 
 
 42 
 
 758 
 
 Descent 
 
 6.23 
 
 57.403 
 
 21244 
 
 43 
 
 758 
 
 .. 
 
 58.08 
 
 58.161 
 
 163.14 
 
 Three-mile branch. 
 
 44 
 
 1,098 
 
 Ascent 
 
 30.01 
 
 59.259 
 
 201.11 
 
 
 45 
 
 1,551 
 
 .. 
 
 4.48 
 
 ee.812 
 
 208.08 
 
 Prairie. 
 
 46 
 
 947 
 
 .t 
 
 
 61.7:)!) 
 
 230.08 
 
 Summit. 
 
 47 
 
 871 
 
 Descent 
 
 30.83 
 
 62.6.30 
 
 203.17 
 
 Prairie. 
 
 43 
 
 2,2.14 
 
 - 
 
 3.56 
 
 64.863 
 
 195.20 
 
 4 
 
 49 
 
 
 41 
 
 6.60 
 
 66.986 
 
 181.20 
 
 Winnebago.
 
 24 
 
 B. Table erhibiting the ettimated cost of Graduation. 
 FIRST DIVISION, 11.25 mill'.-. 
 
 Sections. 
 
 Excavation, embankment, bridges, 
 culverts, itc. 
 
 .8-5 
 - b 
 
 31 
 
 Perches 
 of stone. 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 
 
 <~- 
 ^ 
 SS 
 
 cS 
 
 Total 
 amount. 
 
 4 
 5 
 7 
 8 
 10 
 1 
 
 Excavation 
 Embankment 
 ,'i7 1 rods of Drubbing - 
 Culvert 2 by 2 
 Bridge 10 by six 
 Cuivert 4 by 4 
 Culvert 2 l> 
 Bridge at Rum river 
 300 t'eet superstructure 
 
 MSU315 
 1 30,47 f> 
 
 - 
 
 i 
 
 II 
 164 
 67 
 14 
 640 
 
 ;$0 18 
 19 
 62i 
 3 00 
 3 00 
 3 00 
 3 01) 
 3 00 
 15 
 
 $26,880 48 
 24,786 41 
 231 87 
 42 00 
 492 00 
 201 00 
 42 00 
 1,920 00 
 .4,500 00 
 
 $59,095 79 
 43,320 77 
 
 53,410 76 
 76,281 23 
 51,682 94 
 
 
 SECOND DIVISION, 13.97 miles. 
 
 13 
 
 Excavation 
 Embankment 
 Culvert 2 by 2 
 
 109,935 
 167,372 
 
 17 
 
 15 
 16 
 3 00 
 
 16,4!)'i - 
 26,779 52 
 51 00 
 
 
 THIRD DIVISION, 16.47 iniles. 
 
 91 
 
 24 
 26 
 
 28 
 30 
 
 Excavation 
 Embankment 
 Bridge at .Middle creek 
 50 feet superstructure 
 2 culverts .'i by 3 
 Bridge at Elkhorn creek 
 90 feet superstructure 
 200 rods grubbing 
 Culvert 3 by 3 - 
 2 culverts 2 by 2 
 Bridge on Buffalo creek 
 SO lent superstructure 
 rt 2 by 2 
 Culvert 3 by 3 
 
 160,746 
 120,658 
 
 64 
 
 6S 
 
 120 
 
 - 
 
 r,7 
 
 K 
 
 150 
 
 25 
 33 
 
 17 
 18 
 :> r,0 
 15 
 2 50 
 3 '00 
 15 
 62 i 
 .'! 00 
 3 00 
 3 00 
 15 00 
 3 00 
 2 00 
 
 27,326 N;2 
 21.718 44 
 160 00 
 750 00 
 162 50 
 360 00 
 1,350 00 
 125 00 
 171 00 
 96 00 
 450 00 
 GOO 1)0 
 . 75 00 
 66 00 
 
 
 FOURTH DIVISION, 12.67 miles. 
 
 
 Excavation 
 Embankment 
 3 culverts 
 Bridge at Rock river, masonry, rub- 
 ble work 
 700 feet superstructure 
 2 culverts 
 160'rods grubbing 
 
 123,823 
 113,515 
 
 68 
 4,540 
 46 
 
 16 
 17 
 3 00 
 
 5 00 
 20 00 
 3 00 
 50 
 
 19,811 68 
 19,297 55 
 204 00 
 
 22,750 00 
 14,000 00 
 138 00 
 80 00 
 
 
 FIFTH DIVISION, 22.61 miles. 
 
 8 
 7 
 6 
 
 6 
 
 4 
 1 
 
 Excavation 
 Embankment 
 1 culvert 
 2 culverts 
 1 culvert 
 1 culvert 
 Bridge on Three-mile branch 
 1 culvert 
 
 194,810 
 108,402 
 
 28 
 46 
 28 
 80 
 480 
 33 
 
 16 
 17 
 3 00 
 3 00 
 3 00 
 3 00 
 3 00 
 3 00 
 
 31,167 60 
 18,428 34 
 84 00 
 138 00 
 84 00 
 240 00 
 1,440 00 
 99 00 
 
 
 Total amount ... 
 Cost per mite ..... $4,236 00 
 
 283,791 49
 
 HE