Shepherdstown Newspaper Reports

COMPILATION OF C. & O. CANAL ARTICLES FROM THE SHEPHERDSTOWN REGISTER A SHEPHERDSTOWN NEWSPAPER Dec. 4, 1849 - Dec. 3, 1850 Nov. 23. 1853 - Oct. 20, 1860 JEFFERSON COUNTY, VA & July 15, 1865 - Dec. 29, 1866 Jan. 1, 1870 - Dec. 21, 1878 Jan. 9, 1891 - Dec. 28, 1899 JEFFERSON COUNTY, WV

Compiled by William Bauman C & O Canal Association Volunteer [email protected]

FEBRUARY 2013

1 A. PREFACE

This compilation of newspaper articles about the C. & O. Canal is one of a series. During 1849-50, The Register was published weekly, on Tuesdays. The microfilm box indicated that the contents went from Dec. 4, 1849 - Dec. 3, 1850, which is true as regards the first and last edition. However, every edition between those two dates did not include stories about the Canal. During 1853-78, the newspaper was published weekly, on Saturday. A gap in the microfilm coverage exists. During 1891-93, the newspaper was still published weekly, but on Friday, until Oct. 12, 1893 when it began publishing on Thursday. Again, not every edition included stories about the Canal. Editorials and opinion pieces, when found, were skipped in favor of factual reports.

All microfilm was from: West Virginia and Regional History Collection, West Virginia University Libraries, P. O. Box 6069, Morgantown, WV 26506-6069.

Readers are encouraged to search the enclosed report for information on their ancestor as their time and interest permits. Feel free to send additional observations for the benefit of others.

William Bauman Transcribed February 2013 [email protected]

2 Tuesday, 12/11/49, p. 2. The Day of Trial example of the Camden and Amboy, similar of the Steam Canal-boat Thomas G. Harris, experiments are in progress on the Reading is Saturday next, the 15th inst. Persons Road. It has been ascertained that wishing to witness the experiment had better Cumberland coal will create more steam present themselves at Mercersville by 11 than any other species of coal, and when o'clock A. M. compared to wood, the difference in point of economy is not less satisfactory. The 12/14/49, p. 3. official reports of the Baltimore and Ohio and Camden companies have proved that a ton of Cumberland coal is equal to two and a half cords of wood; consequently coal at six dollars would result in a savings of fifty percent, wood being at four dollars the cord. It is not, however, very probable that the Erie company will use Blossburg coal for several years, as wood will be abundantly supplied at a price not to exceed one dollar and twenty five cents. To the above we may also add, that E. K. Collins, Esq., has made several valuable experiments with and without blowers, which have resulted in the conviction that Cumberland coal is the best fuel for steam purposes.

Tuesday, 1/8/50, p. 3.

The above advertisement was placed on a Friday, and ran every following Tuesday through December 3, 1850. Always the same copy, although placed on page 3 or 4, as space permitted. Of note is the willingness to ship products by canal.

Tuesday, 12/18/49, p. 2. Cumberland Coal for Steaming. - The New York Herald of Wednesday says: - It appears, from recent experiments made on the Camden and Amboy road, that Cumberland coal had fully sustained its character as a superior fuel for the use of railroads; and following the

3 Suddenly, the uprising ceased, and away in the distance, floated off the smoke. On inquiry we learned that the people at the gas-house had emptied their refuse oil upon the water in the canal, and that the workmen, in deepening this work, had set fire to the oil to rid themselves of the stench. The flames were suppressed by throwing mud upon them. It is a truth, the canal was on fire, or rather there was fire in the canal. - Wash. Corr.

Thursday, 3/26/50, p. 2. The Canal. The people of Allegany seem to be very unfortunate. From the earliest recollection to the present moment, they Transcriber's note: The C. & O. Canal had have been constantly meeting with severe opened to Harpers Ferry in October 1833 losses. Firstly, they were swindled upon a and thus it is possible that John A. Gibson large scale, in the matter of Canal Scrip. had been engaged in the forwarding and Secondly, they were robbed to the extent of commission business for ten or twelve years, thousands, by the Kreb's failure. Thirdly between Harpers Ferry and Georgetown. they were plunged into difficulty by the Both of these advertisements ran every bankruptcy of the original Mount Savage Tuesday until June 25, 1850, when they both Company, and also by the sudden explosion stopped. Apparently some repairs were of the Forbes' speculation. We are now necessary along the line of the canal and called upon to lament another no less serious navigation was closed. The presence of two pecuniary disaster. We understand, that competing companies (there was no mention Hunter, Harris & Co., who contracted and of carrying passengers) over the same route undertook at a recent date, to complete the supports the idea that there was an active unfinished portion of the Canal to this place, produce, plaster, salt, fish, tar, shingles, have thrown up the work and appointed a flour, laths, lumber, &c. moving business Trustee. We also understand that this result prior to the Canal opening to Cumberland. was brought about by imposing upon these gentlemen the necessity of doing a vast Tuesday, 3/19/50, p. 1. Canal on Fire. - quantity of extra work - work not embraced Yesterday, March the 8th, about half-past by their contract - and that, therefore, they five o'clock, a wide-spread dense mass of are not to be blamed for the step which they black smoke suddenly loomed up in the have taken. We apprehend evil neighborhood of the Center of Market. consequences to many, from this course of Sheets of fire were occasionally seen action, no matter how it may have been through the sombrous body, affording a produced, for we know the fact that spectacle of grandeur and beauty. The acceptances to the amount of $90,000 at promenaders of the Avenue stopped to least, are held by our citizens, and cannot wonder, and people run from every direction now be paid. We are therefore, extremely to the scene. The bells of the First ward sorry that the Legislature refused to make began to ring, and cry of "fire" was some provision to relieve these gentlemen vociferated.

4 from the unpleasant dilemma in which they were unjustly placed, and thus enable them to reap the fruits and to realize the benefits which their vast undertaking and grand and noble enterprise entitled them to expect, and we hope that their exertions to finish this great work will not forever go unrewarded. - Cumb. Mountaineer.

Tuesday, 3/26/50, p. 3. The Work on the Canal is rapidly progressing to completion, under the direction of Messrs. Hale, Allen Transcriber's Note: Since the Alexandria and Davis, who are the trustees of the bond- Canal was closed, freight for Alexandria had holders and assignees of Messrs. Hunter & to be brought across the Potomac with the Harris. Under the new management, the assistance of steam-powered tug boats. This laborers are paid every Saturday evening. advertisement continued through Nov. 12, Cumb. Alleghanian. 1850, at least.

Tuesday 4/23/50, p. 3. Tuesday, 5/21/50, p. 3. Cumberland Coal. A correspondent of the New York Journal of Commerce says: "All the papers notice the trip of the Washington steamer, as being a clever performance for her; but omit to state the true reason. While they give credit to the engine builders, they give none to the fuel, which was Cumberland coal. "The Canarders always take this coal. Hence the regularity of their

Transcriber's Note: The above advertisement movements. When the machinery of our answers, in part, how the farmers of steamers is adapted to the use of this fuel, Montgomery County were able to obtain the same results will, in my opinion, fertilizer for their fields. Whether the guano follow." was shipped in bulk or in bags was not From Boston they write: "a seller mentioned. This advertisement continued who sells half of all retailed in Boston says through Nov. 19, 1850, at least. that 2240 lbs. of Cumberland Coal is worth as much as a chaldron of Pietou, which will weigh 2800 lbs."

Tuesday, 6/18/50, p. 1. The Canal. A new Era in the history of the Canal. On Monday next or sooner it is understood the water will be let into the Canal for the distance of some seven or eight miles - the length of the first level, commencing at this place - with the view of

5 trying the banks. In a short time the Tuesday, 7/16/50, p. 1. Transcriber's Note: experiment will be continued further down President Zachary Taylor died and President the line until the water communication Millard Fillmore was inaugurated. becomes continuous to dam No. 6. This is, indeed, an earnest of speedy completion. Tuesday, 7/23/50. On the Use of Mules. We have also been informed, since 1. Mules, on a general average, live more the above was written, that on tomorrow, than twice as long as horses. They are fit for Saturday, the water will be let in on the service from three years old to thirty. At levels near Locks 69, 70, 71 in the twelve a horse has seen his best days and is neighborhood of Oldtown. - Cumberland going downhill, but a mule at that age has Civilian. scarcely risen out of his childhood, and goes on improving till he is twenty. Instances are Tuesday, 6/25/50, p. 2. Opening of the recorded of mules living sixty or seventy Canal. - The Hagerstown News says that years, but these are exceptions. The general water will be again let into the Chesapeake rule is that they average thirty. and Ohio Canal on the 15th of July, when 2. Mules are never exposed to diseases navigation will be resumed. By that time as horses are. Immense sums of money are the whole line through to Cumberland will annually lost in the premature death of high- be in working order. spirited horses by accident and disease. The omnibus lines in the city of New York have Transcriber's Note: This was the last issue not been able to sustain their losses and are where both advertisements by John A. beginning to use mules, al less liable by far Gibson and the one by William S. Elgin & even to accident as well as disease. This Co. for their commission business between results from the next consideration, which is Harpers Ferry and Georgetown, appeared. that - No mention of a freshet has been found; a 3. Mules have organs of vision and subsequent advertisement mentions repair hearing far superior to those of a horse. work on the canal had interrupted service. Hence they seldom frighten, and run off. A horse frightens, because he imagines he sees Tuesday, 7/2/50, p. 2. Opening of the something frightful, but a mule, having Canal. - On Monday last, says the superior discernment, both by the eye and Cumberland Civilian, the water was let into ear, understands everything he meets, and the canal as far as Oldtown, a distance of therefore is safe. For the same reason hi is fifteen miles from Cumberland. In a few surer footed, and hence more valuable in days it will be continued on to Town Creek, mountainous regions, and on dangerous a distance of five miles farther. If nothing roads. I doubt whether on the Alpine paths a occurs to retard the present rate of progress mule ever made a misstep. He may have of the unfinished work, the whole line will been deceived in the firmness of the spot be opened to Dam No. 6 by the 15th of July, where he set his foot, but not in the propriety at which time the water will be again let into of the choice, all appearances considered. the lower portion of the canal. Navigation 4. The mule is much more hardy than will then be continuous from Cumberland to the horse. A pair of these animals, owned Alexandria. - Sun. by a neighbor of mine, although small in size, will plough more land in a week than four horses. Their faculty of endurance is almost incredible.

6 5. Another important fact is, that in the The advertisements for John H. King matter of food, a mule will live and thrive on doing business out of Harpers Ferry, less than one-half it takes to keep a horse. resumed at this time but the ones for The horses of England, at this present time, William S. Elgin & Co., of the same place, are consuming grain, which would save the were not found. lives of thousands of British subjects. In a Tuesday, 9/17/50, p. 2. For Cumberland, national point of view, the agricultural is so Md. - The steam tow boat Virginia, brought great that the greater the demand for grain of round from New York, a few days ago, via all kinds, is better for the farmer. But yet the Canals, the Canal boats H. G. Phelps and individual farmers, who are in debt, and L. A. Phelps. These boats are intended for whose land is not improved, would find it the coal trade on the Chesapeake and Ohio profitable, in the course of ten years, to have Canal, and will take their departure for the labor of a full team, and save one-half Cumberland, it is expected, as soon as they and more of the food necessary to keep it up take in their cargoes of plaster and sundries, as might be the case in substituting mules which they are now doing. - The steam tow for horses. boat Virginia will tow up the Canal, and if found to answer, will be regularly employed Tuesday, 9/10/50, p. 3. in that business. We shall welcome heartily the first direct arrivals at this port of the 'Black Diamonds' from the Cumberland region, and hope soon that a successful and prosperous business will commence. - Alex. Gazette.

Tuesday, 10/1/50, p. 2. Completion of the Canal. - This great work is at last completed, and Boats are now being laden with Coal for transportation to the District and Alexandria. We may soon expect to see them on their downward trip. The Canal Board were in session in Cumberland last week, and the question of a reduction of tolls was before them. We have not heard the result of their deliberations. There is much room for the proposed Transcriber's Note: Documentation of the reduction. They are far above the tolls paid cause of the long interruption to navigation on the Erie Canal, N. Y., and other Northern was not found in this newspaper. There works. were no reported freshets that year. This company ran advertisements of several Canal Celebration at Cumberland. column inches in every subsequent edition We learn from the Cumberland to induce readers to buy from him, in papers, that the event of the opening of the Alexandria. The copy of the advertisements Canal to that place will be marked by a did change from time to time as the bargains grand celebration, &c. The completion of changed by the seasons. the Canal to the Mountain City has been looked forward to with a great deal of

7 anxiety by its citizens, and we doubt not a drawing such immense burdens - so quietly - degree of joy commensurate with that so smoothly, and with such rapidity - on the anxiety, will be exhibited on the interesting placid bosom of their canal. The occasion. The celebration, we believe, will movements of the cattle, too, evinced that not take place until after the Gubernatorial they had "an idea" that there was something Election. strange, as they beheld the dark smoke-pipe moving along. Their first impulse was to Use of Steam on the Ches. and Ohio advance - then they would look at each other Canal. knowingly, and by a simultaneous On Thursday the 19th September, the movement, would run off, cutting a variety Steamboat Virginia, built in New York, left of antics, to the great amusement of the Alexandria for Cumberland, having in tow boatmen. three freight Boats, with large cargoes of The whole of this gratifying merchandize. The event seems to have been spectacle was by moon-light; nevertheless, the occasion of great rejoicing among the my observation was attracted to the good citizens of Alexandria. We trust that increased interest and beauty of that section all their bright anticipations in regard to the of country within a few years. Along the great benefits to result to them from the new line of the canal are many neat and pretty trade in which they are about to engage will cottages, and some residences of larger be more than realized. The spirit which they dimensions; all of which are surrounded have evinced in this, and other matters of with well cultivated grounds." interest to their town merits reward. The departure of the Steamer The Canal. Virginia is thus described by a On enquiring at the Canal Office, at correspondent of the Baltimore Sun: what time the Canal will be likely to open, "During the afternoon, a large we find that it is their opinion that the water concourse of citizens assembled on the canal will be let in on the whole line sometime wharves, to witness the first departure for early in October; - perhaps, about the first Cumberland. At seven o'clock, the steam to- week. boat Virginia, ahead of canal boats, C. J. [L. The steam tow-boat, which we A.] Phelps, H. G. Phelps, and Atlantic, of mentioned a short time ago, as being below, Alexandria, moved off from the basin in fine has passed up the Canal. One objection to style, amid the cheers of the spectators. The the use of steam on the Canal is the delay at three boats contain about three hundred tons the Locks, each boat having to wait until all of merchandize, such as groceries, others are through the Locks before it can limestone, fish, &c., and the whole is under proceed. It takes about five minutes to each charge of Captain McCoffery, a skillful and boat to pass through the Locks. - persevering gentleman, admirably qualified Georgetown Advocate. for the service. These boats will stop for a brief period at Harper's Ferry, on their Tuesday, 10/15/50, p. 2. The Steam Tow- upward trip. Availing myself of an Boat Virginia. - Passed this place last week invitation to proceed a few miles in the en route for Cumberland, for the purpose of Virginia, I was struck by the interest and towing Coal Boats on the Canal, in which curiosity evinced by the residents along the trade it will hereafter engage. It will ply line, and, indeed, for some miles remotely, between Cumberland and Alexandria. to see the operation of the first steamboat

8 The Canal Jubilee 12/24/53, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. In Cumberland, on the occasion of The following talented and energetic the opening of that great work, is gentlemen are named in the different papers represented as having been a brilliant affair, of Maryland for the Presidency of the drawing together a very large concourse of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal: - Col. George people. This occasion will constitute an Schley, Hon. J. Dixon Roman, Robert important era in the history of Maryland, as Fowler, John Van Lear and Jacob Snively, the anticipated increase in the trade of the Esq.'s. They are all prominent and Canal, and the consequent increase of influential citizens of Washington County. revenue from tolls, has been looked to as the ultimate means of relieving the State of the 1/7/54, p. 1. A Meeting of Boat Owners. heavy debt which has been for years bearing The Boat Owners, and others upon her and the citizens individually interested in the Transportation Business on through the excessive taxation imposed the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, are upon them. We trust their anticipations of requested to meet at the Potomac Hotel, in relief from this source may be fully realized. Williamsport, on Wednesday the 18th of A fleet of boats laden with the January, to consider and adopt some "Black Diamonds" is expected to pass this uniform system of transportation, for Coal, point today. Flour, Plaster, Grain and other articles of freight. Tuesday, 10/22/50, p. 2. Rejoicing at Alexandria. - The arrival of the first Cola 1/28/54, p. 2. Boat Owner's Convention. - Boats at Alexandria, laden with Coal, seems According to previous notice, a large and to have been the occasion of great rejoicing respectable Convention of Boat Owners and among the good citizens of the ancient others interested in the business of Bellhaven. Cannons were fired, fireworks transportation upon the Canal, met at the displayed, and other demonstrations of joy Potomac Hotel in this place on yesterday. exhibited until a late hour at night. May Joseph H. Piper, presided and A. K. Stake, they reap a rich harvest from this new acted as secretary. The convention, after branch of trade. mature deliberation, adopted a Tariff of rates for transportation, which it is believed will Tuesday, 10/29/50, p. 2. The Canal. - The be acceptable to all concerned. A series of completion of the Canal to Cumberland has resolutions were also adopted, setting forth had the effect of materially reducing the the reasons for asking an advance upon the price of Coal, and consequently of greatly former rates, and calling upon the State increasing its use. The Hagerstown News Legislature to extend the fostering care of says: "A few months since the price paid at the State, to the Chesapeake and Ohio Williamsport was sixteen cents per bushel, Canal, in accordance with the now it can be had at that place for 10 or 12 recommendation of the Governor of the cents per bushel. Many persons in this place State, and the President of the Canal have almost entirely dispensed with the use Company. - Williamsport Journal of the of wood as a fuel, and commenced the use Times. of coal, finding it much cheaper and less The price of transporting a ton of trouble as well as being attended with much Coal has been fixed at $1.25, and of less danger." transporting a barrel of flour at 25 cents.

9 2/11/54, p. 2. Business of Williamsport. - vessels. It is expected that if the timber can We are pleased to learn from the Journal of be prepared, two ships will sail from this the Times, says the Hagerstown Herald, that port every month." the Commercial business of Williamsport has been exceedingly brisk during the last 4/15/54, p. 2. Break in the Canal. - One of month, produce having poured in for the culverts on the Canal just above shipment on the Canal in large quantities. Hancock, gave way a few days ago from the The Times says that for the month of pressure of water. We understand that the January, the large amount 8,720 bbls. of damage is not very serious, and that it will flour were received by different gentlemen be repaired in time to permit the passage of engaged in the business, as follows: the boats that left here yesterday. With this By Anderson & Ardinger 2,453 bbls. exception the Canal is not only sound " Hetzer & Charlton 2,300 " throughout its whole length, but filled with " Charles Embrey 1,900 " an ample supply of water for the most " H. Downs 2,037 " advantageous navigation. - Cumberland Total 8,720 " Civilian.

3/11/54, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. 4/22/54, p. 2. Business on the Canal. - We understand that the Chesapeake The transportation business on the canal is and Ohio Canal is in fine navigable order, progressing at a lively rate. During the last and boats are now plying between week 63 boats, loaded with coke and coal, Cumberland and Alexandria. A number of left this port for Alexandria, carrying 6,666 boats have left the Shepherdstown wharf, tons. This is the largest week's work done on laden with produce for the Georgetown and the canal since its completion. So says the Alexandria markets. Cumberland Telegraph. The Potomac. The Potomac rose considerably 5/27/54, p. 2. Canal Break. above its usual height, a day or two since, in Another break occurred in the consequence of the snow melting, which fell Chesapeake and Ohio Canal on Sunday in the Western mountains a few weeks ago. night last, the 21st inst., some several miles below the Big Tunnel, on Mr. Sterrets 4/1/54, p. 2. Lumber from the Alleganies Division. Some 60 feet of the tow path have to be taken to France. - The Alexandria been washed away, and that to the depth of Gazette states a Lumber trade is about to be three feet below the bottom of the Canal. It opened with France, the depot of which is to is said that the breach was the result of gross be in that city. The Gazette says: "A negligence on the Lock Keeper. company of Merchants in Marseilles have an agent in this country, now purchasing large 6/10/54, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio quantities of timber to be cut near Canal. - The stockholders of the Company Cumberland, Md., and in the adjacent held their meeting in Washington on counties of Virginia, also along down the Monday last, for the election of officers. Potomac river. The timber from the upper Maryland being the principal shareholder country is to be brought down the canal to generally has things her own way, and this point, where it will be loaded on board accordingly furnished the President and all the ships destined to carry it to France. This the Directors but one. Samuel Hambleton, must give employment to a large number of Esq., of the Eastern Shore, was elected

10 President, and the following gentlemen each the benefit of a thorough inspection directors: Norman Bruce and Dr. Fitzpatrick and examination. The first place of halting of Alleghany, William Wasson of will be at Seneca, the next probably Harpers Washington, Alexander B. Hanson of ferry, then Dam No. 4, and so on. Frederick, William B. Clarke of Baltimore, ------and George H. Smoot of Alexandria. On Monday last a train of cars ran off the tracks at the Point of Rocks, and 6/17/54, p. 2. R. W. Latham offered his plunged into the Chesapeake and Ohio services to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Canal. Company, as President, one year, for nothing, but it seems that the Company did 7/15/54, p. 2. The Chesapeake and Ohio not think cheap service the best, and elected Canal is now in complete working order Samuel Hambleton at a salary of $2,500. throughout, and a good business is doing on Mr. Latham proposed to visit every point on it, especially in the transportation of coal the line once a month, if health permitted; to from Cumberland. increase the tonnage and reduce the expenditures, or forfeit $20,000.! 7/29/54, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio ------Canal. - The committee appointed by the The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is Board of Directors of the Chesapeake and now in fine navigable order. Ohio Canal Company made a report dated Cumberland, July 6, 1854. In this report 7/1/54, p. 2. Lime-Boat Burned. they state that they found the general line of A Lime-boat belonging to Mr. this great work in much better condition Callen, was burned in the Canal near this than they had expected from the general place, a few days since, while on its way to impressions existing respecting it. At all the market with a heavy cargo of lime. The fire points which sustained the greatest injury in occurred from a collision with another boat, the freshets of 1847 and 1852, and by which which threw her out of her course against the trade was so long suspended, the repairs the bank, and coming in contact with a rock, and reconstruction have been so perfect that knocked a hole in her - thereby instantly a recurrence of similar injury at these points communicating the water with the lime. The seems almost impossible. In their passage whole cargo, along with the boat, was up the canal, they met many boats laden consumed so far as to be rendered entirely with coal, showing an active business. No valueless. The loss Mr. C. sustains in this want of water has been felt this season and instance is considerable. the superintendents were enjoined to ceaseless vigilance and activity in 7/8/54, p. 2. Examination of the Canal. - performing their duties, so that no We learn from the Baltimore Sun that the interruption of the growing trade of the President and Directors of the Chesapeake canal should take place. Dams Nos. 4 & 5 and Ohio Canal Company left Georgetown require prompt attention. The necessary on Friday morning last, in the Steam Canal repairs to these will be decided upon when packet "Congress," on a tour of inspection of the engineer shall make a full report to the the whole line of the canal from end to end. Board, which he is ordered to do at their They propose to occupy a week on this next meeting in August. Many business, and will make stopping places at improvements might be made to promote the some half dozen principal points, giving to interests of this work, which will be carried

11 out when the present fair prospects shall be several years past he has been a canal man, realized. No just idea can be formed of the and is probably as fully acquainted with the vastness and apparent solidity of the work duties of the office to which he has been without passing along its length. It is a work appointed as anyone who could have been for ages, increasing in strength with its selected. He is a practical man, of fine years. intelligence, enlarged experience and great This is the substance of the energy. We look forward to better times committee's statement, but the people under his superintendence of the canal." residing upon the line of the canal and those The Board made one other change, doing business upon it, very generally, and substituting Mr. Lamby for Mr. Atchison, as we believe justly, complain of its Superintendent of the Georgetown Division. management, or rather mismanagement, for the last two years, and demand a change, 9/23/54, p. 2. The steam-packet Congress and an improvement of its condition from has commenced making regular trips on the the present Board. - Hagerstown Herald. Canal from Georgetown to Harpers Ferry.

8/26/54, p. 2. The Canal. 10/28/54, p. 2. The Chesapeake and Ohio The Canal Board, at it meeting in Canal is now in excellent navigable order Washington, on Thursday the 11th inst., throughout its entire length and quite a abolished the office of Chief Engineer, and lively business is doing in the coal trade appointed A, K. Stake, Esq. of Williamsport, over that avenue. The contrast between General Superintendent of the line. The present time and the middle of last month is Hagerstown herald, in alluding to the above very striking. It is to be hoped that no fact says: "And it is hardly necessary now to untoward circumstance will occur to add, that we share largely in the general interrupt this cheering condition of things. sentiment of approbation which the choice of this gentleman, for the position named, 11/11/54, p. 2. Appointment of a has inspired in Washington County, and that Director. - J. M. Magruder, Esq., has been we but give utterance to that sentiment, appointed a State Director in the Chesapeake when we state that a wiser or better selection and Ohio Canal Company, to fill the could not have been made. Mr. Starke is vacancy occasioned by the death of Norman one of our most intelligent mechanics, Bruce, Esq. having built some of the finest boats which float upon the waters of the Canal; and 12/2/54, p. 1. Shooting Affair. - A having for many years been engaged in its shooting affair occurred on the canal, says trade, and resided upon its banks, he is the Cumberland Telegraph, near the nine therefore thoroughly and practically mile lock, on Sunday last, the 19th inst. It acquainted with the great work which he has appears that a man by the name of Michael been chosen to superintend, and will, we Laly, and a boat captain by the name of John doubt not, devote all his energies to the March, got into a quarrel, when the former promotion of its best interests." The picked up a gun, charge with shot, and fired Cumberland Miner's Journal, also says: upon the latter. The shot grazed his side, "Mr. Stake formerly represented tearing away a portion of his coat, and Washington County in the Maryland slightly abrading the skin. Laly resides in Legislature, with great credit to himself and Virginia. acceptableness to his constituents. For

12 Severe Injury. - Samuel Crawfis, a lock claims, where the holders may desire it, in to tender on the canal, living nine miles below a registered debt and interest of said this place, on last Thursday, the 16th inst., Company; for which certificates will be says the Cumberland Telegraph, in issued on presentation and delivery of the attempting to walk across the Potomac on evidence of such debts at the office of the the rocks, slipped from one and badly Company on or after the 1st day of January, fractured the large bone of one of his legs. 1855. Dr. G. C. Perry hastened to the spot and rendered the service required. 1/27/55, p. 2. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. - We learn from the Cumberland p. 2. The Canal. - The recent rains have Miner's Journal, that J. S. Gwynne, Esq., furnished the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal pumping engine manufacturer, at New York, with an abundance of water, and boats meet has lately visited the Canal for the purpose with no interruption. The canal is of examining the defect at Dam No. 6, represented to be in excellent order where the water is deficient in seasons of throughout its entire length, as is proven by drought. Mr. Gwynne is prepared to the activity of the coal trade at this time. construct an engine which shall deliver unto the canal at this point, the quantity of 2,000 12/9/54, p. 2. Froze Up. - The weather for cubic feet or 14,000 gallons of water per a few days has been so intensely cold that minute; also, to furnish the necessary the canal has been frozen up, and in all buildings, walls, and trunk or sluice, and to probability an end put to navigation for the have the whole in readiness for operation by season. the 1st day of July next. He is willing to guarantee that when finished it shall answer 12/23/54, p. 2. Ice. - During the last eight the purpose, and perform all that he or ten days our citizens have been busily promises for it; and that the cost of the engaged in filling their ice-houses with whole work shall be under the estimate of beautiful clear ice, of about six inches in Mr. Fisk. thickness, off the Potomac. 3/10/55, p. 2. Superintendent of the 12/30/54, p. 2. Drawn Off. - The water is Canal. - The Cumberland Telegraph says, now being drawn off the canal with a view the board of directors of the Chesapeake and of making some necessary repairs. Ohio Canal, at their late meeting in Washington City, appointed Asahel 1/6/55, p. 2. Script Bonds &c. of the Willison, Esq., of this place, superintendent Canal. - The President and Board of of the Cumberland Division of the canal, to Directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal fill the vacancy occasioned by the Company have published an advertisement resignation of William P. Sterrett, Esq. He notifying the holders of that class of debts of takes charge immediately. the Company, which stand deferred to the mortgages heretofore given to the State of It is rumored that the present board of Maryland, commonly known as "script," directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal bonds issued for script, bonds and will be compelled to walk the plank in June acceptances to creditors, balances due to next. So says the Cumberland Telegraph. contractors, &c., that they have authorized the consolidation and conversion of said

13 4/14/55, p. 2. Superintendent of the Canal. - At the meeting of the Canal Board on Thursday last, in Washington City, Horace Benton, Esq., was appointed to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Mr. Lambie, on the Georgetown division, and Mr. Henry Astz, Esq., of Williamsport, to supply the vacancy occasioned by the death of B. F. Hollman. The former is a Whig and the latter is said to be a Democrat. - Cumberland Telegraph.

6/7/55, p. 2. Changes on the Canal. - We understand that the Board of Directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, at their meeting in Washington City, held on the 30th ult., made the following changes upon the Canal, viz: Messrs. Clark, Artz, Coudy and Willison, Superintendents of Divisions, were One of the benefits of patronizing The removed, and Messrs. Benton, Stanhope, Potomac Mills was free shipping to Jacques and Lowe appointed in their places. Georgetown, D.C. whilst the Canal was Messrs. Embrey and Pilce, navigable, till the price declines, per barrel, Collectors of Tolls, were also removed, and below $7.00. Messrs. Stake and Wells appointed in their places. No other changes were made. - 8/4/55, P. 2. Horrible Accident on the Hagerstown Herald. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal - Two Men Lost. - It becomes our painful duty to give 7/14/55, p. 3. The following advertisement the details of a most distressing accident started on July 14 and continued weekly occurring on Wednesday night last, the 1st until at least Sep. 1, 1855. inst., about 11 o'clock, at Middlekauff's Culvert, 9 miles above this place. The Canal Boat "David Seigle," belonging to Wm. brown, Esq., of Antietam Iron Works, loaded with Coke, was on her way from Cumberland, when getting near the culvert the Captain discovered a breach in the Canal and knowing the fearfully hazardous situation they were in, jumped ashore and urged the balance of the crew and two passengers to do so also. They were either taken by surprise or lost their self-possession upon awaking to the fearful danger that surrounded them, and unable or unwilling to make any effort to save themselves, passed through the breach, with the wreck, into the River. The tow-boy, after passing through

14 the breach, was rescued, but the two a million dollars. They adopted a resolution passengers, who were drowned, were not appointing a committee to represent their seen afterwards -- it is supposed they sunk interests before the Legislature of the State with the boat, which was broken in pieces. of Maryland, in order to procure the The names of the passengers were William management of the Canal divested of State Dunham, of Cumberland, aged about 70 control, or the passage of an act for the sale years, and Miller Cole, from Williamsport. of said work on terms securing to the bond The boat and cargo is a total loss. At the holders the payment of their claims and a time our paper goes to press the bodies of coupon on every bond and a tax of a quarter the unfortunate men had not been recovered. percent, to be assessed to defray the It is thought it will require 3 or 4 weeks to expenses. It was stated that the outlay of the repair the injury to the Canal. Canal absorbs the income, and that $600,000 interest remains unpaid independent of the 8/11/55, p. 2. Bodies Found. Virginia guaranteed bonds, the entire debt The bodies of Wm. Dunham and being $2,600,000. The Bond holders Miller Cole, who were drowned at the declare the company nearly bankrupt, and it breach in the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, only needs a declaration to make it so. The on the night of the 1st inst., which accident canal cost from fourteen to $15,000,000. we noticed in our last, was found in the Potomac on Saturday last, the 4th inst., near 2/2/1856, p. 2. The Canal. Harpers Ferry. We are indebted says the Hagerstown Herald, to a friend for the 10/20/55, p. 3. The following annexed statement of the income and advertisement was placed on this date and expenses of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal ran weekly until at least until Dec. 8, 1855. for the last year: The advertisement mentions the proximity to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, which RECEIPTS Revenue from Tolls $138,675.84 we know was accessible via a River Lock. Revenue from Water Rents 3,651.25 Rent from Houses and Lands 810.15 12/15/55, p. 2. A Fatal Accident. - On Fines and Penalties 45.63 Wednesday the 5th inst., as we understand, a $143,182.87 EXPENSES young man named George Fisher, aged Current expenses paid in the year 1854, exclusive of about 20 years, accidently fell, as he was entries unpaid leaving a boat at the "Four Locks," about 7 Improvements of Canal Steam Pump $7,025.11 Repairs, Ordinary 61,624.69 miles above this place, to step upon a plank Repairs, extraordinary breaches &c. 5,014.86 Pay Superintendents, Collectors, Lock leading across a race, and struck his head 22,552.49 against the plank, with so much violence as Keepers & Inspectors Pay Pres., Directors, Clerk, Treasurer & 7,426.73 to cause instant death. Line Superintendents Interest paid 26,319.20 1/12/1856, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio Contingent expenses 1,251.15 Postage, Printing & Stationary 346.06 Canal - - Bond Holder's Meeting. Law Expenses 527.76 $132,088.05

Washington, Jan. 8. - A meeting of the bond holders of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, was held this afternoon, representing nearly

15 2/23/1856, p. 2. The Potomac. The Potomac River is frozen up from its mouth to its source, hardly leaving sufficient openings for the subsistence of the wild water fowl. Such is the depth and solidity of the ice, that in many places large wagons and sleds heavily laden with wheat, wood, &c., are constantly passing and repassing. Great fears are entertained for the safety of the Canal, and the dams and bridges across the River. We have been informed that the average thickness of the ice is about 28 inches.

4/12/1856, p. 2. The Canal Open. - The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is now open, and that navigation has been resumed. There is an immense amount of flour and other produce, which has accumulated during the winter, awaiting transportation upon its waters.

5/31/1856, p. 2. Coroner's Inquests. - Sampson Brosius was found dead at Lock No. 51, in the Hancock District, last week, and a stranger, name unknown, was drowned in the same District. Inquests were held upon both bodies by Coroner Troxell. - Hagerstown Herald.

6/7/1856, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. - At the meeting of the Commissioners of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, held at Washington, D.C., on Monday last, Col. Wm. P. Maulsby, of Frederick City, Md., was elected President of the Company, and the following gentlemen Directors: James Coady and Jacob M. Grove, of Washington County, Md.; Dr. James Fitzpatrick and Thomas Devecmon, of Allegany County, Md.; John Brewer, of Montgomery County, Md.; and Robert P. Dodge, of Georgetown, D.C.

8/23/1856, p. 2. Drowned. - George Sinclair, a very worthy young man, about 21

16 years of age, was found dead on Friday contractors, may be expected to make rapid morning, the 8th inst., in the locks at Berlin, progress. We learn that their contract of which he was keeper, supposed to have requires them to complete the dam, by the accidentally slipped in, and being unable to 1st of January next. - Martinsburg swim, was drowned. He was from Loudoun Republican. County, Va., but has been residing in this State upwards of a year. - Frederick (Md.) 2/14/1857, p. 2. High Water. Citizen. By the sudden evaporation of the snow into water, the old Potomac, which has 8/30/1856, p. 2. Drowned. been covered for some time with ice, drank On Wednesday afternoon, 20th inst., lustily from its tributaries, and soon it began a young man named Henry Bowers, aged swelling at an alarming rate. On Sunday last about 19 years, was drowned in the Potomac the watery element predominated, and of River, at Cumberland. He was employed on course the ice had to "knock under," which a Canal Boat, and whilst engaged in pushing event did take place about 2 o'clock. The the boat with a pole, accidently fell spectacle thus presented was as grand and overboard. His remains were taken through beautiful as destructive. this place, to Sharpsburg, where his parents We learn that great damage has been reside, for interment. sustained along the river. A number of dams were carried off, amongst them Dam 12/13/1856, p. 2. Sale of Canal Bonds. - No. 5, which will seriously effect the The $60,000 Chesapeake and Ohio Canal boating business on the Chesapeake and Preferred Coupon Bonds, bearing six Ohio Canal. It is supposed by some that percent interest from January 1st, 1855, navigation throughout the whole line, from which were advertised for sale at the suit of Cumberland to Georgetown, will not be the Frederick County Bank, were sold on resumed for at least a year. Dam No. 4, Thursday last at the Merchant's Exchange, which is now being rebuilt, was materially Baltimore. They were put up in $5,000 lots, injured. Throughout this County we hear with the privilege of taking the whole. The that a great many Bridges have been carried first lot of $5,000 sold at $1,275, being away by the rising of the smaller streams. $25.50 per share, and bought by Col. W. P. In Washington County, Md., we Maulsby, President of the Canal Company, understand that immense damage was done who took the entire amount of $60,000, at on Antietam and Beaver Creeks; dams and the same price, amounting in all to $15,300. bridges were swept off.

12/20/1856, p. 2. The Chesapeake and 2/21/1857, p. 2. Proceedings of the Canal Ohio Canal is frozen over. Navigation is Board. - At a recent meeting of the Board of suspended. The water will be let off on the Directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio 22nd inst. Canal, a resolution was passed abolishing the office of General Superintendent from 2/7/1857, p. 2. Dam No. 5. - The Canal and after the first day of March. It was Company at the meeting of the Board on the found to be impossible to get along without 7th ult., awarded the contract for rebuilding the aid of a civil engineer at present, in Dam No. 5, in Messrs. Brown, Gorman & consequence of the construction of Dams Lemon. They will commence the work at an No. 4 and 5, and to employ a civil engineer early day, and being old and experienced and superintendent was deemed a useless

17 expenditure of money, and inasmuch as they 5/2/1857, p. 2. Canal. - The Cumberland could not dispense with the former for at Telegraph says, the Chesapeake and Ohio least a year the office of the latter was Canal will be navigable on Monday next, abolished. 4th. From the first, we opposed the creation of the office of General Leased. - The Warehouse at Superintendent, because we considered it a Mercerville, on the Chesapeake and Ohio mere sinecure, the Superintendent being Canal, recently owned by Joseph H. Piper, abundantly able to discharge the duty has been leased by Messrs. Lewis Watson devolving upon them without the and Samuel Boyer. supervision of the General Superintendent, who very seldom knew as much as his 5/9/1857, p. 2. The Season. - An old subordinates as to the condition and wants fashioned, settled rain commenced falling on of the canal. We are glad to see the office Friday evening last, the 1st, in this region of done away with. The savings to the canal country, which continued, with but thereby is about $1,450 per year. occasional intermission, until Monday night, Economy is a great desideratum the 4th. An immense quantity of water fell, upon public works, and its peculiarly so on exceeding any previous rain for several the canal. The present Directors, we are years, causing the Potomac river to rise to a glad to say, are using every exertion to cut great height and occasioning the repairs of down expenses. We will be glad to second Dams No. 4 and 5, on the Potomac, to give them in such laudable efforts. - Cumberland way and sweeping off their timbers besides Telegraph. doing injury in other localities, which will evidently cause the navigation on the The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal to be delayed The National Intelligencer of several weeks longer. This is certainly a Monday says: "On Saturday last, in deplorable state of affairs, and we obedience to a notification from the sympathize with that numerous class of President of the Canal Board, Mr. Maulsby, business men, whose produce, embracing in of Frederick City, the members of the Board some instances all their earthly possessions, put themselves en route for Martinsburg, is locked up in the Warehouses and boats Va., which, on account of its centrality to upon the banks of the Canal, and whose the whole canal, as well as its nearness to hearts must be sickened and crushed with a the chief scenes of damage, was chosen as a succession of deferred hopes and cruel fit place for a general meeting of all the disappointments. Directors at the present time. The object of the meeting is to ascertain everything 5/16/1857, p. 2. Drowned. - Michael relating to the condition of the canal Donoho, a citizen of Hancock District, fell throughout, the extent of the damages into a Lock upon the Chesapeake and Ohio sustained, and the manner and cost of repair. Canal and was drowned, on the night of the As a result of this well-judged and timely 2nd instant. An inquest was held upon his movement, we have no doubt the Board will body by Mr. Troxell, a Justice of the Peace, publish and early report on this subject - one and a verdict rendered in accordance with at all times, but now especially of interest to the facts. a large portion of the community.

18 5/30/1857, p. 2. A Melancholy Accident. towards the completion of dams No. 4 and 5, On Thursday evening, 22nd inst., a on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, may be son of Mr. Jacob G. Unseld, of Sandy Hook, assumed at $20,000. The amount actually near Harpers Ferry, and a colored boy who subscribed does not quite reach that sum, but was with him, were both drowned in the the committee are assured that the whole of Canal. Young Unseld, a sprightly, the $20,000 will be obtained with but little intelligent and promising lad of about 15 difficulty. years of age, had on that day been at School in Harpers Ferry, and the colored boy was 6/27/1857, p. 1. Accident at Dam No. 5. sent with a horse to bring him home. On We regret to learn that the last crib to their return, both being mounted on the complete this Dam, which was wheeled into horse, the latter became frightened at some line on Tuesday last, gave way owing to the falling earth and stones, and sprang down a breaking of a rope before it was loaded precipice of some twenty or thirty feet into down with stone, carrying off with four the Canal. The horse swam out, but the carpenters, one of whom was drowned. He boys sank to the bottom. Their bodies were was a young Baltimorean, but we did not recovered a short time afterwards, and on learn his name. His body has not yet been Saturday last the white boy was interred. found. His parents were devotedly attached to him, We understand that arrangements and the feelings which his death under such have been made to go on with the repairs to distressing circumstances has stirred up in Dam No. 5, and if no unforeseen accident their breasts can better be imagined than occurs, it is confidently expected that described. navigation will be resumed on the Canal by the first of next month. But for the 6/6/1857, p. 2. The Annual Meeting of the unusually wet season and the succession of Stockholders of the Chesapeake and Ohio freshets - such as perhaps has never been Canal took place on Monday at the City witnessed on the Potomac - these repairs Hall. It resulted in the re-election of the old would have been completed months ago. As board as follows: it is, the officers of the Company deserve Wm. P. Maulsby, President, great credit for their untiring perseverance Frederick County, Md. and energy. Thomas Devecmon and James We doubt whether a more untiring Fitzpatrick, Allegany County, Md. set of men has ever had control of this great James Cowdy and Jacob Hagrove, work. - Martinsburg Republican. Washington County, Md. John Brewer, Montgomery County. 7/4/1857, p. 2. The Cumberland Coal and and Robert P. Dodge, of Georgetown, D.C. Iron Company recently purchased one From the dams on the upper region hundred canal boats of the Erie Canal of the canal intelligence was yesterday Company, intended to be put on the received which gives the hope that by the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, for the use of 10th inst. navigation will be resumed the Cumberland Company in the throughout. - Nat. Intel. transportation of coal to Alexandria. Forty seven of these boats were brought around to 6/13/1857, p. 2. Canal Subscription. - The Alexandria, when it was discovered that Cumberland Telegraph says, the amount they were all too wide by three inches to subscribed by the citizens of that place pass the lock-gates.

19 that city and Cumberland, Md. We 7/18/1857, p. 1. A New Scale of Tolls. - understand that the trip was made in forty- The President and Board of Directors of the eight hours running time. The boat is a Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, have adopted a screw propeller, and her engine, which is new scale of tolls, which took effect last placed in the rear cabin, is of 28 horse week. On rough materials, such as fire- power. The boiler and furnace weigh four bricks, castings, salt, bloom and railroad tons only. The editor of the Cumberland iron, rough stone, &c., the toll is 20 cents Civilian, who took a short trip in the boat, per ton for the first 20 miles; then an states that the engine and propeller worked increase of five cents for every ten miles. as well as could be desired. The commotion On lime and cement the toll is the same as in the water (the editor adds) was very little; the above up to 70 miles; over this distance, immediately in the wake of the screw paddle only fifty cents per ton is charged for the was perceptible a slight commotion, but no whole line to Cumberland. Limestone, five wave; neither was there any more of a wave cents per ton for the first 20 miles, then an washing the banks than arises from a boat increase of 2½ cents for every ten miles, up drawn by horses. There was not the least to 70 miles; over this distance the rate is not obstruction arising to prove an injury to the to be greater than 16 cents per ton for any canal banks, and we confidently believe that distance. this invention is all that is necessary for successful steam navigation, and we 8/1/1857, p. 2. The Canal. congratulate her inventors that they have At last navigation on the Chesapeake achieved the long-awaited and much-needed and Ohio Canal has been restored. The long improvement. The boat must certainly work looked-for period has at length arrived. wonders in canal boating. A change will Boats are once more running on this great undoubtedly soon take place. A canal boat work, and the "Black Diamonds" and of the description of the "Cathcart" will cost produce of every kind are flowing in a no more than a boat and a mule team. constantly increasing stream towards tide water. 9/12/1857, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. - The Cumberland Telegraph makes Severe Accident. - On Saturday last Mr. the following synopsis of the report of the James Terrell and Mrs. John H. Kindle, were Board of Directors of the Chesapeake and severely burned by the explosion of a lamp, Ohio Canal Company to the stockholders, on board a canal boat, at Dam No. 6. The viz: Total amount of tolls which accrued to boat took fire and some difficulty was the canal for the year ending December 31, experienced in extinguishing the flames. were $153,051.36 against $128,675.84 for The condition of the injured is considered the corresponding period of 1855; showing critical. They were brought to their an increase for the year of 1856 of residences in this city. - Cumberland $14,375.52. The expenses for the same Telegraph. period, including the interest account, amounted to $231,716.73. The expenses 9/5/1857, p. 2. The Chesapeake and Ohio from the 1st of January to the 1st of June, Canal Navigated by Steam. - A week or 1857, amount to $162,322.12 two since it was announced that the "James The total loss sustained by the canal L. Cathcart," a steam canal boat, built at from the ice freshet directly and indirectly, Georgetown, would make a trip between is estimated above 200,000 dollars, to say

20 nothing as to the sum expended since June but to none has it fallen harder upon than to 1st. Mr. Gatrell, who is a poor though honest, upright man, and good citizen. His loss is 9/12/1857, p. 2. Drowned. - A son of estimated at about $400, and this to a hard- Henry M. Coffman, residing in Pleasant working man is no inconsiderable amount. Valley, some five miles from this place, We are pleased to see however that some of aged about seven years, was drowned in the our philanthropic citizens have taken the Canal, near Sharpsburg, on Tuesday last, 1st matter in hand and are trying to reinstate Mr. of September. Mr. C. is tending a saw-mill Gatrell by appealing to the liberality of the at the place where the accident occurred, and community. It is a very commendable while the child was playing about, it fell in undertaking and deserves success. We hope and before it could be rescued, was none will be backward in relieving him in drowned. - Boonsboro Odd fellow. this his time of need.

At the late meeting of the Board of 11/14/1857, p. 2. The C. & O. Canal still Public Works, Mr. David Funsten, was continues in excellent order throughout its appointed proxy of the Chesapeake and entire length. The amount of tolls received Ohio Canal. for the month of October runs up to $20,000. The work on the new dams, No. 4 and 5, is 9/19/1857, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. - The to be suspended. The cause of the Board of Directors of the Chesapeake and suspension is a want of means to prosecute Ohio Canal met on Thursday in regular the work. monthly session. All the members present except Mr. Coudy, and the president of the 11/21/1857, p. 2. Stabbing Affair. - On board, Mr. Maulsby, in the chair. The Monday last a melee occurred on the Canal, amount of money actually received by the at this place, between Wm. Taylor owner of company for the twenty three days of a boat, & a man named Wm. Ormans; during August on which navigation was possible, the scuffle they fell into the Canal, when was $19,464.53 but this will be increased Taylor inflicted four stabs, with a dirk knife from Harpers Ferry collection, so that upon Ormans, but neither of which proved $20,000, or approaching on thousand dollars serious. a day, will be the receipts for August. Most of the business of the meeting consisted in 11/28/1857, p. 2. The Canal and Potomac is making arrangements with contractors. We frozen over at this place, and navigation, regret that a break has occurred in the canal without a great change in the weather, may about six miles this side of dam No. 5. It is be considered as closed for the season. not serious however. National Intelligencer. 12/12/1857, p. 2. Accidental Drowning. - A Severe Loss. An inquest was held over the body of James Mr. Charles Gatrell, a boatman of Lose, at the Warehouse of L. G. Stanhope, this place, had the misfortune to lose his Esq., on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, on team of three horses, on last Monday, whilst the 20th ult. Verdict of the Jury, accidental going around "slack water" on the C. & O. drowning. Canal. This is a dangerous point on the Canal and much feared by boatmen, and 1/29/59, p. 2. Mr. Patrick Dunovan, a man many of the like instances occurred before, of family, and a resident of Hancock, Md.,

21 was instantly killed on Tuesday last, by Canal Appointments. falling into Lock No. 56, on the Chesapeake The meeting of the Stockholders of & Ohio Canal, near Orleans, Allegany the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal took place County. The deceased had been in in Washington City on Thursday last. The attendance at a frolic given at the Sidling meeting is said to have been an unusually Hill Coal Works, and in attempting to cross full one, and was presided over by James A. the lock there, fell in, his head striking Magruder, Esq., of Georgetown. The violently upon the rocky bottom (the water election of officers resulted as follows: was drawn from the lock at the time) and President - Lawrence J. Brengle, of caused immediate death. Frederick. A singular fatality seems to overhang Directors - Daniel C. Bruce and this Lock, for within a few years, five men David W. McCleary of Allegany; John S. have lost their lives in it. It is the same lock Bowles and F. Dorsey Herbert of in which a Mrs. Summers was drowned a Washington; H. F. Viers of Montgomery; short time ago. and James A. Magruder of the District of Columbia. 3/27/1858, p. 2. Heavy Load. It is stated in the City papers that The boat "Susan Baker," owned by Henry W. Hoffman, of Allegany, will be Rentch & Stonebraker, of this place, Mr. selected as the Treasurer of the Company, George Harris, Captain, left the wharf of the and that the General Superintendent, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, at this place, most important officer of the work, will be on Saturday last, 20th inst., laden with 4,000 taken from Washington County, Md. bushels of Corn, 200 bushels of Wheat, 150 bushels of Oats, 128 barrels of Flour, 56 4/3/1858, p. 2. Flare Up of the Canal bushels of Timothy seed - the entire weight Board. - The Baltimore Clipper states that of which was one hundred and thirty four W. P. Magruder, Esq., President of the tons. The boat averaged 4 feet, 8 inches, of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, has water in the bow, and 4 feet 5 inches in the stoutly refused to give up the books of the stern. company to the new canal board, and that This is said to be the heaviest load too upon the foolish plan of illegality. ever known to leave the wharf of Shepherdstown, upon the Chesapeake and 4/10/1858, p. 2. Election of Officers. Ohio canal. The newly elected Board of Directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio Praiseworthy. Canal, at their meeting in Washington, on The retiring board of directors of the Wednesday the 24th ult., appointed the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, before the following officers, who entered upon the close of their labors, and in obedience to the discharge of their duties on the 1st inst. petition of a large number of persons doing General Superintendent and business upon the canal - captains of boats Engineer - John G. Stone, of Clearspring, and others - passed a resolution prohibiting (the present Senator of Washington Co., the running of boats on the Sabbath day; and Md.) from after this, all lock-keepers will be Superintendents - First Division - required to keep them (locks) closed on Georgetown, Horace Benton, of Sunday. Montgomery; Second Division - Monocacy, Silas Brawning, of Rockville; Third

22 Division - Antietam, Levi Benton, of clear and navigable throughout, with Sharpsburg; Fourth Division - Williamsport, business very active. The Sunday law takes A. K. Stake, of Williamsport; Fifth Division place on next Sunday week, whereby all the - Hancock, Lewis G. Stanhope, of locks on the canal will be kept closed every Washington county; Sixth Division - Sabbath, and no way-bills issued. Receipts Cumberland, Lloyd Lowe, of Cumberland. for tolls for the past week, $2,397. - Collectors of Tolls - Georgetown, D. National Intelligencer. C., J. McHenry Hollingsworth; Williamsport, John A. Rickard; Hancock, 5/1/1858, p. 2. A Colored Boy Drowned. Henry Wells; Cumberland, John A. Shaw. On Monday night, the 19th ult., a Assistant Collector at Georgetown - colored boy named David Watts, was Clement A. Peck. drowned at the Four Locks on the Hon. H. W. Hoffman, of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. He was in the Cumberland, was then appointed treasurer employ of Mr. Cyrus Moore, keeper of the from the 1st of June next, in place of Samuel Locks, and while engaged in passing a boat Magraw, who resigned some time since. through the Locks, the night being very The office at present held by Mr. Ringgold dark, he made a miss-step and fell into the was not interfered with. Canal. A motion to move the office of the company to Cumberland or to Frederick was 5/8/1858, p. 2. Canal Suit. rejected. Col. Maulsby, late President of the It is stated that Col Maulsby will C. & O. Canal Company, not satisfied with have the present officers notified not to their rejection of his application, for an surrender their offices to the new injunction to enable him to retain office, has appointees. applied to the Circuit Court of the United States, now in session at Washington, D.C., 4/17/1858, p. 2. A Fizzle: for a writ of Mandamus to compel his The attempt of the late President and successor to give up the office to which he Directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was recently elected. The reason, assigned to retain possession of this greatly abused for this vexation proceeding is that the and mismanaged work, has resulted in a election of the present President was illegal, signal failure. The injunction which they and also that the new board are unwilling to prayed for has been refused by the Court, pay for the excess of time, the old and the Canal passed into the hands of their employees held over, under Col. Maulsby's successors. The slight break which occurred orders after they were notified to resign. It last week below Williamsport has been was annoying enough that they should repaired, and navigation resumed upon the impede the business of the Canal as they whole line, and boats are running briskly. did, without expecting pay for their intrusion. If the writ should be granted, Col. 4/24/1858, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio Maulsby will be able to hold onto the office Canal. - During the week ending Saturday until the 1st Monday of June. evening last, the arrivals at the Collector's office at Georgetown amounted to eighty- 5/15/1858, p. 2. Breach of Dam No. 4. six, of which about two-thirds are coal We understand that the freshet in the boats, the rest laden with wheat, flour, corn Potomac river on Friday last effected a and limestone. The Canal is reported all breach in Dam No. 4 of the Chesapeake and

23 Ohio Canal, situate near Williamsport. up the breach in the course of ten days, About 80 feet of the cribs near the Maryland should the weather continue favorable. shore were carried away. This difficulty Both Dams will be completed this will probably suspend navigation for a short summer by building them of the most solid time, and besides the cost of repairs, involve and endurable masonry; the prospect of a large loss of revenue from tolls, now much procuring the necessary funds from the Coal needed for the completion of the new Companies, amount almost to a certainty. masonry dam at that point. The company owes nothing however for the We understand that Mr. John work already done by contractors at these Cameron of Washington City, (brother to Dams. Mr. Daniel Cameron of this place,) has Loaded boats can now pass at the received the contract to make the repairs, tunnel. An Irishman named David _____ on and is now at the scene of action. Monday slipped from the crib at Dam No. 4, into the water, his body was drawn into the 6/19/1858, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio rapid current then fell through the breach, Canal. - The stockholders of the and after futile efforts to save him from his Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company had a own agonizing exertions, he sank to rise no general meeting in the City Hall on last more alive. Friday. Lawrence J. Brengle, Esq., President, in the chair. 7/3/1858, p. 2. Dam No. 4. The lately elected officers of the We understand that another crib was company were all confirmed. The report washed away, on Monday last, whilst which shows a very discouraging condition adjusting it in the Dam. This seems to be an of the canal and the finances of the ill-fated work. company. The ice-freshet in the spring of 1857, and the calamities resulting from it, 7/24/1858, p. 2. Death from Drinking are represented to have involved the Whiskey. - At Mercerville, on the company in a loss, from the extraordinary Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, last week, a expenses incurred, and deficiency of man named Jacob Barks drank a quart of revenues, which may be estimates at whiskey, and laid down in the public road, $300,000. There was a deficiency of funds where he died in the course of a half hour. on the 1st of April, 1858, of $45,043.60. The Board think it will require two 8/28/1858, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio years to place the canal and the finances of Canal. - The Board of Directors of the the company in as good condition as they Canal held their last meeting, at this place, were two years since. commencing on the 8th inst., and closing on the evening of the 10th. They were met here 6/26/1858, p. 2. The Canal at Dam No. 4. by a number of gentlemen from New York The breach at Dam No. 4 is about to city, and Cumberland, Md., concerned in be closed, now that the stage of water will coal mining and the navigation of the Canal, permit of operations. Over 100 hands, with the object of consummating the (chiefly boatmen, whose all is dependent arrangements for a loan of $100,000 to the upon the Canal,) are employed night and Canal Company wherewith to complete day. On Tuesday morning the first crib was Dams Nos. 4 and 5. The result was that the put in. Two other are to be put in, which said arrangements were fully consummated will be done early next week, and thus close and the necessary contracts entered into and

24 signed. By these the money will be Lewis G. Stanhope, Superintendent of the forthcoming, and not as it is wanted for the Hancock Division of the Chesapeake & said structures, the loaning parties receiving Ohio Canal, has resigned, and that James in lieu permits of the nature of receipts for Resley has been appointed to fill the tolls during the year 1859. These terms vacancy. appear to be judicious and liberal, and it is We understand that Mr. Stanhope now claimed that the future of the Canal, to has received the contract for the completion all human appearance, is rid of the only of Dam No. 5, Mr. Brown, to whom it had great cloud which menaced its fortunes. The been awarded, having thrown it up. work at Dam No. 4 is going steadily and successfully forward; the work at Dam No. 9/18/1858, p. 2. Found in the Canal. 5, which had been suspended for lack of The store of Mr. C. F. Wendell, at funds, will be immediately resumed. The Berlin, Frederick County, Md., was entered September meeting of the Board will also be on the 1st inst., and an iron safe containing held at this place. - Morgan Constitution. $1,800 carried off. A few days afterwards the safe was found in the Canal with its 8/28/1858, p. 2. Fatal Accident. contents safe and sound. The supposition is A laboring man, named Patrick that the thieves intended to convey the safe Scanlan, came to his death on Thursday last away in a boat, but upset the boat accidently at Dam No. 4 under the following and let their plunder fall in the water. circumstances. He was engaged in picking clay in a pit on the Virginia side of the river, 9/25/1858, p. 2. A Man Drowned. for the purpose of filling coffer dams when a On Thursday last, the 16th inst., as a loose rock on the side of the bank gave way boat filled with dressed stone, nearing Dam and fell on him. He lived about two hours No. 4 on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, it after the accident. was capsized by a gust of wind. There were four men on the boat at the time, three of Dams No. Four and Five. whom saved themselves, but the fourth, an The work at the new masonry dams Irishman named Bear, employed on the in progress of erection on the Canal will be Dam, sank with the stone to the bottom, and pushed forward with zeal and energy, now has not been recovered. One of the three that a sufficient loan has been effected for who saved themselves, was Mr. Elias U. the purpose, and it is expected that both will Knode of Hagerstown, and at present an be completed before the close of the year. efficient employee on the work. Mr. Knode Mr. Robinson of Martinsburg has the sank in about twenty-five feet of water, but contract for the construction of Dam No. 4 having kept clear of the massive stones with and Mr. William Brown of Washington which he was surrounded, he immediately County, Md., that for the construction of rose to the surface and with the aid of a Dam No. 5. It is stated that the President plank hastily thrown him, reached the dam a and Directors of the Company will hold moment before the huge gondola arose and their monthly meeting in Cumberland after struck it with great violence, the collision September until Dams No. 4 and 5 are occurring at the very point where Mr. K. completed. Made his escape.

9/11/1858, p. 2. A Change on the Canal. - Two of three steam boats, the It is stated in the Hancock Journal, that Cumberland Civilian states, are in the course

25 of construction upon the line of the 2/26/59, p. 2. Resumption of Navigation. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. - We understand that it is in contemplation 12/4/1858, p. 2. At the late meeting of the to let the water into the Chesapeake and C. & O. Canal board, the salary of Mr. Ohio Canal on or about the 1st of March, Ringgold, the clerk of the company, was preparatory to an unusually early resumption increased to $2,000; that of Mr. Shaw, of navigation, which will certainly take collector at the port of Cumberland, to $700; place should the present mild weather that of Mr. Ferguson, inspector, to $600; and continue. We also learn that the Coal that of Mr. Stone, general superintendent, to Companies have made arrangements to $2,000. transport some eight hundred thousand tons of Coal during the ensuing season, one half 12/11/1858, p. 2. Bridge Contract. upon the Canal and one half upon the We are informed, says the Frederick, Railroad, which will far exceed the trade of Md., Examiner, that on Friday last, John A. any previous year. Snovall & Co., of this city, entered into a Body Found. - The Hagerstown written contract, with surety, for the building Mail says that the body of an unknown man, of a Government dam across the Potomac supposed to have been drowned at Dam No. river a short distance above Harpers Ferry. 4 some time ago, was found below The dam is to be of substantial masonry, Mercersville, Washington County, last about 6 feet high according to specifications, week. The Editor of the Herald says he saw to be built by the perch, and is estimated to this man drown; he went down in fifteen feet cost some $80,000. The paragraph copied of water with half a dozen tons of stone from the Baltimore Sun, stating that this upon him, having been in a boat loaded with contract was awarded to Messrs. T. Moore the stone which was capsized as it neared & Co., of Buffalo, it will be seen from the the dam by a sudden gust of wind. above, was erroneous. The construction of A Freshet in the River. - The heavy the proposed dam will materially benefit the rains of last week caused a considerable C. & O. Canal, by affording an increased freshet in the river, which done some supply of water during the summer. damage to Dam No. 5, a temporary Crib and two Derricks having been washed away. 12/25/1858, p. 2. From the Cumberland The loss is trifling and will not delay the papers we learn that the business on the deep resumption of navigation. No damage was cut, C. & O. Canal, is suspended for the sustained at Dam No. 4. winter; the boatmen having tied up their boats, 2,411 canal boats left that port during 4/9/59, p. 2. Navigation on the Chesapeake the season, carrying 271,361.06 tons of coal. and Ohio Canal is exceedingly active. Ten thousand tons of coal have already arrived at 2/19/59, p. 2. Work on the Dam Georgetown, D.C., and the tolls for March Commenced. - We learn that Messrs. John were $2,875. A. Snovell & Co., the contractors to build The creditors of the Chesapeake and the Government Dam at Harpers ferry, have Ohio Canal are to meet at the Fountain commenced work with about 40 hands, and Hotel, in Baltimore, on the 27th day of May intend in a few days to increase their force next, for the purpose of memorializing the to 70. Maryland Legislature to pass an act for their relief.

26 4/16/59, p. 2. Drowned. - A hand 6/25/59, p. 2. The Alexandria Gazette employed on the Canal Boat J. F. Wheatley, complains of a scarcity of vessels at that fell overboard from the boat several days point, as coal carriers. ago, when she was stopping at White Oak Spring, on the three mile level, on the 7/30/59, p. 2. Fatal Accident. - We learn Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, and was that on Thursday last, Mr. Nathaniel Long, drowned. He was from Harpers Ferry. His of Washington County, Md., was thrown body was found with grappling irons the day from his horse, and his neck broken. This of the accident. When found, there was a accident occurred near Dam No. 4. bruise on his forehead. 9/17/59, p. 2. The Board of Directors of the 4/22/59, p. 2. Man Drowned. - A man by Chesapeake and Ohio Canal met on the name of Wat Powell, was drowned on Thursday at their offices in Washington and Friday, the 1st inst., near Seneca, in the determined upon ordering the contractors to Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, in the go on with Dam No. 5, forthwith, and following manner: He was in the act of continue it to completion. There is said to pushing a boat on which he was working, be a hundred feet section of masonry to be when his foot slipped and he fell in and put in. before assistance could reach him life was extinct. He was a worthy man, and leaves a 9/24/59, p. 2. The Georgetown large family without any means of support. correspondent of the Baltimore Sun, of Monday, says: "This afternoon, by the 5/5/59, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. collision of two canal boats, Mr. John Wm. - Washington, May 4. - The general Yontz, a resident of Shepherdstown, Va., superintendent of the Chesapeake and Ohio met with a very painful accident in a Canal Company received a letter this compound dislocation of the ankle. Medical morning that Mr. Benton, division aid was summoned, and in an hour or two he superintendent at Dam No. 4, in which he was carefully conveyed to the Washington states that all the boats that have so far Infirmary. Dr. Halen set the limb, and he is arrived, have been passed without difficulty, doing well. and on interruption is likely to occur until This young man is a son of Mr. the river falls. All the materials required for Martin Yontz of this town, and when the the repairs at that point have been received, accident occurred he was employed upon the or will be by the time the water is low boat owned by Mr. William Chaplaine, also enough to commence the repairs. The work of this town. for the completion of the new dam (No. 4) was let to Mr. Lewis G. Stanhope at the Transcribers Note: For the balance of 1859 same rate paid to the former contractors, the news was mostly about the John Brown conditioned upon his completing the same raid at Harpers Ferry, his trial, and hanging. within thirty days. 10/15/59, p. 2. The Hagerstown Herald of 6/4/59, p. 2. The law prohibiting boats to Wednesday last states that the breach at the run upon the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal on Aqueduct on the Chesapeake and Ohio Sunday was repealed a few days since. Canal has been closed, and the necessary Boats are now running on the Sabbath day. cribbing at Dam No. 4 nearly completed, which will enable the Company to resume

27 navigation during the present week. their powers to the agent of the Coal Navigation has been resumed upon the Companies, preferring to let the work to our lower level of the Canal, for the last ten own citizens, especially as they have agreed days, and the line is now open from Harpers to do it for one half the amount asked by the Ferry to Alexandria. Steamers are now New Yorkers. - Hagerstown Herald. regularly plying between Georgetown and Harpers Ferry. 3/3/1860, p. 2. Five boats left Williamsport P.S. - The steamer "Herald" passed via C, & O. Canal of Friday and Saturday the Shepherdstown lock on Thursday last, loaded with forty-six hundred barrels of evening, en route for Cumberland. flour, for the Georgetown market. Three thousand barrels were sent by Jacob B. 1/22/1860, p. 2. The breaking up of the ice Masters & Co., and sixteen hundred by on the river has proven injurious to Dam No. Charles Embrey & Son. 5 on the C. & O. Canal. About 8- or 100 feet of the old Dam has been broken and In this same issue was found the washed away. advertisement: 2/4/1860, p. 2. The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. - The Annapolis correspondent of the Baltimore Sun, under date of January 12, says, that many persons interested in the Canal, are expected to be at Annapolis in a few days. The scrip owners and bondholders are both actively at work. It appears to be the disposition of parties interested in the Legislature, to listen to the recommendations of both Gov. Ligon and Gov. Hicks, to separate the State from its control in the work, and to leave the canal to private management

2/11/1860, p. 3. The Canal. - We learn that the Canal Board, at their meeting on Friday last, contracted with Messrs. Hassett and Herr to repair the breach at Dam No. 5, created by the late freshet, and that there is no doubt but that the Canal will be in good order as soon as the water becomes low enough to enable the work to be done. The Contractor for the work at No. 4 was ordered to complete it with the greatest possible dispatch. The New York Coal Companies refused to give the least aid unless the Canal Board would authorize their agent to let the work and permit him to give $30,000 for the repairs at both dams. The Board very properly refused to transfer

28 how much it was used on the canal remains to be found. This advertisement was run twice and then the March 24, 1860 copy was changed by the addition of a comment that: "The above sale will positively take place on the day named." and that advertisement was run for two more days. The results of the sale have not been found.

3/17/1860, p. 2. The steamer "Antelope," Capt. Wells, and "Brengle," Capt. Ritter, commenced running off the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal on Wednesday last. They will make four trips each week between Georgetown and Harpers Ferry, and two to Williamsport. Trips from this place to Williamsport on Wednesdays and Fridays; leaves here at 6 o'clock, A. M., and returns to this place on the evening of the same days, and immediately leaves to Georgetown. Fare from Georgetown to Harpers Ferry, $1.80; to Shepherdstown, $2.19; and to Williamsport, $3.00. Passengers for short distances will be charged at the rate of 4 or 5 cents per mile.

3/31/1860, p. 2. Drowned. - A young man in the employ of Mr. Elie Stake, of Williamsport, Md., was drowned at Dam No. 5 last week. His body has not yet been recovered. In company with two others, he attempted to cross the river above the dam; the skiff was drawn into the breach at the dam and capsized. The other two succeeded in reaching the dam.

4/14/1860, p. 2. Freshet. - Rain commenced falling on Monday and continued with slight intermission up to Wednesday noon, causing the Potomac to swell higher than it has been for eight years. The freshet extended along the line of the B. The canal boat "C. B. Thurston" was & O. Railroad from Grafton to points east of registered on 8/31/1854, hailing out of Harpers Ferry. The C. & O. Canal was over Cumberland and owned by Cumberland flown at several points between Cumberland Coal & Iron Company. How it became the and Harpers Ferry. It is thought that Dams personal property of William Chaplin and/or

29 No. 4 and 5 are materially injured as five or commissioners of public works of Maryland, six cribs and timber were seen floating by at whose duty it is to appoint directors in all this point. the public works in which the State is part At Harpers Ferry, on Wednesday, the owner, were present for the purpose of banks of the Canal were entirely submerged, choosing directors in the Canal Company, to and the lower end of the town over flown. serve until Monday, the 1st of June, or until Many persons were compelled to remove their successors are appointed. Quite a their stores, shops, &c., from the submerged revolution was made in the board, the and threatened buildings to others higher following gentlemen having been elected situated. The Armory buildings being directors: Alfred Spates, of Allegany county; protected by the heavy walls surrounding John M. Broome, of St. Mary's county; them, were not at all affected by the flood. Victor Holmes, of Baltimore county; It is presumed that much loss and Edward M. Mealy, of Washington county; damage have been sustained by persons Enoch B. Hutton, of Montgomery county; residing along the line of the Potomac. and Joseph J. Heckert, of Cecil county. A new president of the Canal Company was 4/21/1860, p. 2. A correspondence also elected - Dr. Fitzpatrick, of Allegany dated Dam No. 5, April 16, to the Baltimore county. Sun, states that the water in the Potomac and In stockholders meeting the stock of C. & O. Canal has subsided, and this Dam, City of Washington and the United States which had just been finished, (by cribbing) was represented by Mayor Berrett; that of is not the slightest injured. Dam No. 4 has Virginia by N. S. Robinson, of Martinsburg; also escaped, and the slight damage done to that of Alexandria, by W. S. Boothe, and the entire line of Canal can be repaired in 8 private stock by W. H. Fowle, of or 10 days at a cost not exceeding a few Alexandria. After the election had been thousand dollars. announced, Mr. Robinson having been instructed to do so by the board of public 5/5/1860, p. 2. Increase of Tolls on the works of Virginia, was allowed to enter a Canal. - The Frostburg Gazette of the 29th formal protest against the action above states upon what it deems reliable grounds taken, in not having given a director to the that a majority of the Board of United States, to Virginia, and the District of Commissioners of Public Works had Columbia. The next meeting of the determined to exact as a condition precedent stockholders will be on the first Monday in to the appointment of directors to the June. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, at the election on the 3rd of the ensuing month, 5/19/1860, p. 2. The protracted rain of last a pledge or promise that they would favor week caused the Potomac and the C. & O. the proposition to add 25 cents to the present Canal to again swell to a considerable toll on each ton of coal from Cumberland to height, causing some little damage to these tide water. thoroughfares, but not sufficient to impede the progress of boating to any extent. A 5/12/1860, p. 2. New Board of the slight breach on the bank of the Canal, on Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. - There was the "five mile level," occurred on Sunday a meeting of the stockholders (or their last, through which a horse and mule, whilst representatives) of the Chesapeake and Ohio attached to a boat on the way to Canal in Washington on Thursday, when the Georgetown, belonging to Mr. John

30 Byroads, were washed into the Potomac and between Georgetown and Harpers ferry, and were taken down stream some 8 miles, and will run as follows: - Leaves Georgetown when several miles below this town, the every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, at 7 mule was rescued, and the horse drowned. A.M. Leaves Harpers Ferry every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, at 6 A.M. 5/26/1860, p. 2. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. - At a meeting of the President and 7/14/1860, p. 2. The Chesapeake and Ohio Directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is now in fine navigable order Canal, held in Washington, on Tuesday of throughout the entire line. A few days ago last week, A. K. Stake of Washington some 250 boats, "all in a row," loaded with County, Md., was appointed General coal, passed this point, on their way to Superintendent, (salary $1,200) and John M. Georgetown. Miller of Cecil County, Treasurer, of the C. The toll for the month of June & O. Canal. The following Supervisors amounted to $19,000. were also appointed: - Emanuel Tice, Benj. Bootman, Lawrence J. Murry, W. D. 7/28/1860, p. 2. There has been an entire McCardle, Thos. Charlton, Geo. W. Grove, suspension of boating upon the C. & O. Lawson Poffenberger, Terrence Byrnes and Canal since Thursday 12th inst., caused by a Patrick Savin. Salary $600. leak in the Canal near Dam No. 5. When The office of Superintendents of navigation will again be resumed is not Divisions, has been abolished and the six known. incumbents discharged. The contracts for the completion of Dams No. 4 and No. 5 8/4/1860, p. 2. We understood that a free have been relinquished; and the new Board negro who was employed at Dam No. 4, was refuse to obey the instructions of a majority accidentally drowned, on Thursday night, of the Commissioners of Public Works, to whilst attempting to cross the river in a skiff. increase the rates of freight on Coal. Michael Riely, Irishman, was The Board adjourned till the 1st of severely injured on Wednesday, at Dam No. June, without appointing Collectors. 4, by a premature discharge of a blast. His head and back were much bruised and cut, 6/2/1860, p. 2. The Canal. - The as well as sustaining injury internally. Dr. Cumberland Telegraph states that the Stonebraker of this town was called upon to Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is in good administer medical treatment, under which navigable order for its entire length, also that he is doing as well as could be expected it is in contemplation to estimate the cost of under the circumstances. finishing dam No. 5, and if the board should see their way clear, financially, it is probable 8/11/1860, p. 2. Another breech occurred the work will be done. in the C. & O. Canal, about 5 miles above this place, on Saturday last, causing a 6/16/1860, p. 2. The annual meeting of the suspension in navigation. About one Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company is hundred boats are now lying at this point postponed until July. awaiting repairs.

6/23/1860, p. 2. The Steamer Antelope, 9/1/1860, p. 2. We learn that the Directors Capt. B. F. Wells, will, on and after the 2nd at their late meeting at Berkeley Springs of July, carry the United States Mail issued an order stopping steamboats from

31 navigating the C. & O. Canal on account of volunteer rod man, from which position, by the injury they do to the banks, to take effect his untiring industry and devotion to his today, September 1st. They also reduced the profession, he became its chief engineer. tolls on wheat and flour. After the completion of the canal, he was invited by the State of Virginia to become 9/15/1860, p. 2. The Board of Directors of chief engineer of the Covington and Ohio the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal met in Railroad, in which position he remained Georgetown, on Thursday of last week, and until the war. reconsidered their late action in relation to the navigation of the canal by steam packets. 3/17/1866, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. - The A letter to the Star says that it was water is now being let into this canal, and determined to allow steam packets of a probably by the middle of next week draught not greater than 3½ feet to navigate navigation will be in full operation. It is the canal, at a speed not exceeding four expected that the amount of coal to be miles per hour, by paying the same rates of transported over this channel during the toll as are charged on freight boats, and ensuing season will be much greater than complying with the regulations which ever before. About fifteen new boats are on govern all other crafts on the line. the stocks at the different yards at Cumberland and every preparation has been 9/22/1860, p. 2. Joseph S. Moore, Esq., made for a heavy trade. died at his residence near the Four Locks on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, on 3/31/1866, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. - The Wednesday night of last week, of a Alexandria Gazette of Saturday last says: "A scrofulous affection of the mouth and throat. number of boats are arriving daily at He was an intelligent, honorable and high Georgetown from different points along the toned gentleman. line of the Canal, many of them from the grain depots, with cargoes of wheat and 9/29/1860, p. 2. A slave named John, the corn. There have been no arrivals of boats property of Mr. David Billmyer of this town, from Cumberland with coal, and it is fell from the deck of Mr. B's boat whilst understood that, by reason of a decrease in lying at the wharf at Georgetown, D.C., on the prices of freight, the masters of the boats Friday night last, and before assistance decline shipping coal for this point. It is could be rendered he was drowned. He was hoped that the matter will be settled without a valuable slave, aged about 20 years. delay, as the arrival of the coal fleet is anxiously anticipated by the agents of the 1/20/1866, p. 2. It has been decided that coal companies. canal boats duly enrolled and licensed, on which tonnage has been paid, are not liable 4/7/1866, p. 2. The Coal Business. - The to the internal revenue tax. prospects of an immediate resumption of the coal business says the Cumberland 2/3/1866, p. 2. Charles B. Fisk, Esq., a Alleganian, are not very encouraging though celebrated civil engineer, died at Staunton, the Spring has fairly opened and the Canal is Va., on the 11th ult. He was a native of in good navigable condition throughout, Connecticut, and a graduate of Yale College. there is a most disheartening inactivity at Many years ago he entered the service of the our coal wharves, on the railroad leeders and Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company as at the collieries. The reason for this is a

32 disagreement between the Companies and 9/8/1866, p. 2. Chesapeake & Ohio miners as to the price for mining. At a Canal. - At a meeting of the Maryland consultation between the representatives of Board of Public Works, held in Baltimore on the various mine proprietors a few days Monday last, the following gentlemen were since, it was determined that the rates should elected officers of the Chesapeake and Ohio be fixed at 50 cents per ton - e reduction of Canal Company for the ensuing year: 25 cents from the price paid last year. The President - Jacob Snively. Directors - F. miners refuse to accept this, and hence the Dorsey Herbert, A. Kershner Stake, L. J. lock. Notwithstanding the rates freight on Brengle, Horace Resley, Charles Abert and the Canal were reduced, at the same time H. Addison. from $2 to $.50 per ton, we have heard no complaint among the boatmen. All seem 9/22/1866, p. 2. The Potomac Mills. - We willing and anxious to begin operations. understand that a number of our enterprising capitalists have associated themselves 5/12/1866, p. 2. Business Resumed. - We together for the purpose of forming a understand that the miners in the company and purchasing the Potomac Mills Cumberland Coal region have resumed property, near Shepherdstown, Va. These work, and that the shipment of coal has re- Mills were celebrated before the war, but commenced on both the Canal and railroad. have stood idle ever since the outbreak of This has enlivened business on the line of hostilities. The new company, after making the Canal, cheapened coal and has revived all necessary repairs and improvements, trade generally. intend to engage largely in the manufacture of flour, lime and cement, the material of the 5/26/1866, p. 2. Break in the Canal. - latter article being regarded as the finest in Operations along the line of the Canal are the United States. We are pleased to hear of now suspended in consequence of an this practical development of the resources extensive break in the work some few miles of our surrounding country, and chronicle below Williamsport, which it is said, will with pleasure the spirit of our citizens in take a week or ten days to repair. Se we engaging in such enterprises. - Washington learn from the Williamsport Free Press. Star. The foregoing paragraph, from a late 6/9/1866, p. 2. Fatal Accident. - We regret Washington paper, refers to an enterprise to learn that Isaac Henry Smith, of this which will unquestionably be of immense county, aged about 18 years, was crushed to advantage to the interests of our community. death on the 26th ult., between a canal boat Having been aware for some months past, and Goose Creek Lock, on the C. & O. that a gentlemen of this place has been Canal below Point of Rocks, whilst clearing quietly but energetically at work perfecting a the tow line of the boat on which he was plan for the permanent improvement of the employed. magnificent water power at Potomac Mills in this vicinity, we are very happy to have it 6/16/1866, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. - During in our power to corroborate the above the month of May 574 boats cleared from statement of his success in securing the co- Cumberland, Md., carrying 53,269 tons of operation of a number of enterprising coal - the largest business for any single capitalists, who are not only public spirited month in the history of the canal. men of means, but also for the most part, of parctical experience in various departments

33 of operative industry, and who are 1/22/1870, p. 2. About 250 feet of the tow- determined to develop the capabilities of the path of the C. & O. Canal was washed away property to the utmost extent of its capacity. during the late high water in the Potomac. We understand the damage was occasioned 9/29/1866, p. 2. For the month of August by the force of the current through the waste 355 boats, carrying 38,682.18 tons cleared way of the dam belonging to the Potomac Cumberland for Georgetown. Cement Mill, near this place. It is said the damage sustained by the Canal Company The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal has been will amount to about $5,000. repaired to dam No. 4, and business is again resumed. 2/5/1870, p. 2. At Work. - The C. & O. Canal Company has been at work, during 11/24/1866, p. 2. Murder at the Great the past week, with a force of some 50 or 75 Falls. - Parties who arrived in Georgetown hands, repairing that portion of the Canal on Friday night last reported that the dead bank, a vacancy of about 250 feet, which body of a colored man, who lived at the was washed away during the recent high Great Falls employed on attending the canal water, near the dam of the Potomac Mills, locks there, was found in the lock on near this place. The cost of the repairs will Thursday. The body was horribly mutilated be about $5,000. They expect to have the and appeared to have been chopped with an work finished in about three weeks. On axe. The wife of the deceased was arrested Monday last a portion of the laborers struck on suspicion of having committed the for higher wages, demanding $2 per day. murder. The name of the murdered man After a slight interruption the contractors was not known by the informants. agreed to pay the price demanded, and everything is now moving along rapidly and The managers of the Chesapeake and Ohio harmoniously again. canal have lately removed Lloyd Lowe, superintendent, to make place for Richard 3/12/1870, p. 2. Stirred Up. - The citizens Sprigg. Wm. Dowden, keeper of the locks of Williamsport, Md., are considerably at Cumberland, has been removed, and Wm. exercised because the Cumberland Valley Wineow appointed in his stead. John Railroad Company concluded not to run Cameron, superintendent of the first division their road by Williamsport but strike the of the canal, was removed on Thursday, and river at some point further down so as to Isaac Morse appointed to the vacancy. connect with the Shenandoah Valley Railroad. They held an indignation meeting During the present year 297,623 tons of coal on the 28th ult., and passed threatening have been transported over the canal from resolutions and adopted an address to the Cumberland, Md. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Company, urging them not to let the railroad cross the Canal 12/22/1866, p. 2. Navigation of the C. & O. except at Williamsport. "Shoe Fly don't Canal is suspended for the present season, bodder us." and it is said that an unusual number of boats are "tied up" along the line. The water 3/19/1870, p. 2. The break in the was drawn off on Tuesday last. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal a short distance below this place, has been repaired, having finished it the latter part of last week.

34 4/2/1870, p. 2. The Boating season upon time, narrowly escaped by struggling the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal has through the water that rushed through the commenced, and will no doubt be continued cabin door and windows. Everything went with considerable energy. Many personas down in the unfortunate boat. The cargo, from this place have gone into the boating 109 tons of coal was owned by the business upon the raging canawl. Midlothian Coal Company; the boat by the Hampshire & Baltimore Coal Company. 4/16/1870, p. 2. The Chesapeake and Ohio The total loss is estimated at near $2,000. Canal is now open to navigation, and so eager are boatmen to secure boats, that a Drowned. - On Thursday of last week, great number must be refused. Last season George Whalen, a colored man, aged about was the most profitable since the waterway 23 years, employed by F. H. Irwin, Esq., of was opened, to the Canal Company as well Boonsboro, Md., as a driver on the C. & O. as to boatmen - hence the rush for boats. Canal, fell from the boat, about one hundred The Canal is in splendid condition and yards below what is known as the Burnt everything bids fair for a remunerative Warehouse, and was drowned. He had just business. come out from his supper and as he stepped on deck, he stumbled and fell off the stern of 4/23/1870, p. 2. The first lot of shad and the boat. Every effort was made to save him herring, via the C. & O. Canal, was brought but without success. It is supposed he struck here on Monday last and sold at 20 cents for the rudder blade in the fall, and was stunned shad, and $2 per hundred for herring. as he seemed perfectly helpless, and made no effort to take a line that was thrown to 5/14/1870, p. 2. Canal Disaster. - On him. Saturday morning last, about 3 o'clock as the Boat "Wandering Boy," was rounding what 5/21/1870, p. 2. Suicide. - We regret to is known as the "Big Pool," [M.P. 112.50] state that our town was much excited on about 70 miles from Cumberland, she was Monday evening last by the sad intelligence run into by the "H. Gurdemann," and sunk in that Mr. John H. Spohn, a respected citizen about 15 feet of water. From the statement of this place, had committed suicide by as given us by Milford Spohn, who was on shooting himself in the forehead with a the boat at the time of the disaster, it appears pistol. His body was found about 5 o'clock that owing to the dense fog that generally in the Catholic graveyard and a Coroner's prevails along this portion of the Canal the jury was immediately summoned, who, after boat ran aground, and whilst endeavoring to hearing all the evidence, rendered the get her off, the "H. Gurdemann" was seen verdict "that the deceased came to his death coming up - the boat was warned off in by his own hands." Mr. Spohn had been for sufficient time - but owing either to some time suffering a great deal with carelessness or incapacity upon the part of dyspepsia which at times made him very the steersman, the boat came on in full low spirited. About two weeks ago he lost a headway, striking the stern of the small amount in the sinking of the boat "Wandering Boy" with such force as to "Wandering Boy," on the C. & O. Canal, crush her rudder post, breaking in the whole while in the boating business, which so stern, sinking her in a moment of time. preyed upon his mind that, added to his Fortunately no lives were lost, though Capt. previous condition, it produced temporary Chapline and his son, who were asleep at the insanity, and led him to commit the rash act.

35 He had but removed to this place a little Robinson. The President, Hon. James over a year ago from Liberty, Frederick Clarke, appointed the standing committees County, Md., and had long been an active as follows: Finance - Messrs. Brown, member of the M. E. Church, South, and Meredith and McPherson; Construction and was 58 years of age. Repairs - Messrs. McPherson, Dodge and His remains were consigned to the Young; Transportation - Messrs. Young and tomb in Elmwood Cemetery, on Tuesday McPherson. The committee on construction evening and his funeral sermon preached by and repairs, accompanied by the president, rev. W. G. Cross of the M. E. Church, will start to Georgetown soon and make a South, aided by Rev. Dr. Bittle of the tour of the entire line of the canal, to Lutheran Church. Peace to his dust! thoroughly investigate its condition, requirements, &c. 5/21/1870, p. 2. Our townsman, Mr. W. B. Cost, has recently had built a very large and 7/16/1870, p. 2. Large Contract. excellent Canal boat, in Cumberland, which We learn that the Potomac Cement is now plying upon the waters of the C. & O. Mills Company, near this place, has received Canal, laden with coal, for Alexandria. The another order for ten thousand barrels of boat is called the "Lillie Lemon," and is the Cement for Washington City. These Mills first 'through' boat bearing a name from give employment to a number of hands and Shepherdstown or its vicinity. We don't is a great help to our community. wonder at Billy giving his boat the name he Large Shipment. - We learn that has, and we think he has exercised during the past twelve months, Messrs. exceedingly good taste in doing so. He is Boyer & Colbert, of Downsville, carrying on an extensive business upon the Washington County, Md., shipped from Canal, having now three boats plying the their Warehouse, on the C. & O. Canal, to raging Canawl. Success to him. Georgetown, one hundred and forty six thousand bushels of wheat. This is We learn that a Miss Earhart, 17 years old, considered very heavy transportation, and daughter of John Earhart, blacksmith, of we congratulate our friend Geo. H. Colbert Williamsport, Md., threw herself into the upon his success in business. canal at that town, and perished before assistance could reach her. It seems that the 8/6/1870, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. - The young lady had some difficulty with her president and directors of the Chesapeake father, and under the excitement of the and Ohio Canal held a meeting at Berkeley moment, it is thought, committed the rash Springs on the 27th ult., when one of the deed. Her father was arrested and first things determined was to make an committed to the Hagerstown jail upon the appropriation to pay the past due coupons charge of assault with intent to kill his since January 1, 1861, of the repair bonds of daughter. the canal company. The bonds having been guaranteed by the State of Virginia, that 7/9/1870, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio State paid the interest from 1854 up to 1861. Canal. - There was a meeting of the newly It will require some $100,000 to pay the elected president and board of directors of coupons up to July, 1869, the period at the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, which the bonds themselves matured, and at held at Annapolis on Thursday last, when which at present there is no provision for they were sworn into office before Judge

36 redeeming. The following is the resolution has been employed for some time as a passed by the board on the subject: watchman on the B. & O. Railroad, was Resolved, That the sum of twenty burning some brush he fell into the burning eight thousand dollars, or so much thereof as pile, and when discovered by his friends was may be necessary be, and the same is hereby burned terribly, the flesh from one side appropriated, together with the sum now in being almost entirely burned away. He was the hands of Alexander Brown & Sons, held carried to his home, and after lingering in by order of Court, to produce the sum of one intense agony until Thursday last, death put hundred thousand dollars, to take up and pay an end to his sufferings. the unpaid coupons of the bonds, commonly known as repair bonds of the Chesapeake 8/27/1870, p. 2. Murder. - At Oldtown, and Ohio Canal Company, guaranteed by Allegany County, Md., on Thursday the State of Virginia, and that said morning of last week, Capt. Henry Miller, of Alexander brown & Sons be, and they are the canal boat "Thomas H. Faile," was found hereby directed to commence the payment lying on the deck of his boat, weltering in of the aforesaid coupons on the 15th of his blood. He was badly beaten about the August, requiring in all cases the holders of head, having his skull severely fractured, coupons to present the bonds with the same. and has since died. When found, there was It being understood that all payments made no one with him on the boat. The boat had under this order shall be in conformity with tied up at Oldtown on the evening previous, decision of the Court of Appeals of and it is supposed the fiendish act was Maryland and such order as has or may committed by a white man and a negro, as hereafter be passed by the Circuit Court of both were employed on the boat and could Baltimore City. not be found next morning. The suspicious It is because of the facts that Virginia parties were subsequently arrested in also claims to have paid some of these Washington county. coupons in the years from 1861 and 1865, that is such as were held in the late Southern 9/3/1870, p. 2. Trial of Steamer on the C. Confederacy, and that at the time of the & O. Canal. - Last week the steam canal evacuation of Richmond some of these were boat "R. H. Castleman," Capt. Castleman lost or stolen, that the requirement is made commanding, direct from Georgetown, D. by the court and board that the bonds shall C., on an experimental trip, and bringing an in all cases be presented with the coupons. assorted cargo of salt, tar, plaster, Any one, therefore in improper possession watermelons, machinery and rail road iton of the coupons will not be able to obtain the for the Duke marble quarries, near Harpers money for them. ferry, recently purchased by and now being worked by parties in Washington, arrived at 8/13/1870, p. 2. Child Drowned. that place, which demonstrates that canal A child aged about 5 years, son of navigation can be performed by steam. A John Whittington, was drowned in the C. & writer in the National Republican says: O. Canal, near Mercerville, a few days ago. "This is not the first time an attempt has A jury was empanelled by Mr. Samuel been made to navigate these waters with Boyer, who rendered a verdict of accidental steam. Nearly twenty years ago the father of drowning. the same gentleman who commands the On Monday evening last, while Mr. present boat from this point, navigated the Samuel Clark, residing at Dam No. 6, who Shenandoah from this point to Front Royal

37 in a little steamer planned and built by himself. Thus it will be seen that steam 12/3/1870, p. 2. Trip of the Canal Board. canal boating runs in the family. - A Pleasant Party. - The President and "On Monday the Castleman will Board of Directors of the Chesapeake & commence loading with a cargo of marble Ohio Canal Company, together with a party from the Duke Quarries, and return to of invited guests, arrived at our town early Washington. This will be the first cargo of on Thursday evening last from Cumberland. marble ever sent from West Virginia to that They tarried with us through the night, and city. It will be followed during the next very hospitably entertained a number of our week by two others, destined for New York, most prominent citizens on board of their to fill orders, already received. The Duke elegant little craft, the "Lady Washington." Quarries produce three distinct qualities of Repairing on board at the invitation of marble, each in great abundance. That now President Clarke and Dr. McPherson, being shipped is of the black mottled Frederick county's efficient representative species, resembling the Egyptian in color on the Board, we found a large assemblage and texture, but possessing softer and better of old friends and new ones. The press was working qualities. well represented by Charles Cole, Esq., of the Frederick Union, and Col. J. W. 10/2/1870, p. 2. Our citizens are Baughman, of the Citizen. Allegany county purchasing coal of Mr. W. B. Cost, making gave to the party Col. Alfred Spates, preparations for winter. Prices for lump per formerly President of the company, and now ton $5, and run of the mine $4.50. During State Senator from that county, Capt. J. E. the freshet last week, in the Potomac, some Cruzen, a genial soul who evidently knows forty tons of coal was washed off the wharf, how to 'keep a hotel,' and who had the boat belonging to Mr. Cost. and party in charge, and Mr. Mulvanny, the [Transcribers Note: In this same edition was efficient Superintendent of the Cumberland a long story about this freshet which division, while old Washington was principally came down the Shenandoah represented by our former townsman, Col. river, sweeping everything on the canal from A. K. Stake, Capt. George Heyser, Col. Wm. Harpers Ferry to Georgetown. The specifics Dodge, present member of the Board, of the canal destruction were not cited Denton Jacques, Esq., Superintendent of this because the destruction was from Lynchburg division, old Montgomery gave her down the valley.] contribution to the party in the person of Mr. Young, a gentlemen whose acquaintances 11/5/1870, p. 2. It appears from a recent we were pleased to make, and who ably meeting of the Board of Directors of the C. represents the interests of his county in the & O. Canal, held in Baltimore, that the Board of Directors. While the guests were recent break in the canal this side of Harpers in the enjoyment of good speeches and good Ferry, caused by the extraordinary flood cheer, the Williamsport Band made itself from the Shenandoah, was four hundred heard, and added the delight of sweet music yards in length, and was repaired in 16 days, to the occasion. An addition to the it being navigable for light boats in fourteen assembled guests was here made by the days, and heavy boats in sixteen days. arrival of Maj. H. K. Douglas, of There were employed upon the work of Hagerstown, and W. P. Maulsby, Jr., and repairs 1,250 men, day and night, and 250 Mr. Baughman, the Junior of the Citizen, carts. The cost of the repairs was $40,000. whom, together with Mr. A. Ritter, present

38 member of Legislature, and Mr. Thomas 12/10/1870, p. 2. Personal. Wolf, made up the whole party from In our last issue we mentioned the Frederick, several of whom were called for recent visit to our town of the President and and made some hitting remarks. Thus the Directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal evening passed away in a spontaneous flow Co. Amongst those who accompanied them of good humor, witty speeches and pleasant were our esteemed editorial brethren of jokes, and at a late hour the party dispersed Frederick city, Messrs. Baughman of the well pleased, and wishing the excursionists a Citizen, and Cole of the Union, whom we delightful voyage over the quiet waters of greatly regretted not to have had an the Canal, and safe arrival at their opportunity of greeting with the right hand destination. - Williamsport Pilot. of good fellowship. But their stay in town The above party, as they were on was too brief to allow us the pleasure. their way down the Canal, visited our town In their respective papers they thus on Friday night last, and were agreeably refer to the visit. The Frederick Citizen entertained for several hours in the parlors says: of the Entler Hotel, by Hon. A. R. Boteler, "Friday evening the Washington and other citizens of our town. The party reached Shepherdstown, about dark, and seemed to be in fine spirits, and clever anchored for the night. It was soon gentlemen. determined to visit Shepherdstown, and Drowned. - On Monday last the some eight or ten of the party - body of a man was found in the Potomac notwithstanding the heavy shower of rain river on the Virginia shore, opposite the falling - were quickly at the ferry shouting Two Locks, about six miles below this for the boat to pass us over to the Potomac, place. Justice Long, informed of the fact, to old Virginia's shore. In due time the party proceeded to the scene and summoned a jury were safely landed on the opposite side, and of inquest, and upon an investigation the surmounting difficulties encountered in the body proved to be that of a Mr. John darkness of the night, and the rush of waters, Cummings, a respectable young man in the we reached Entler's Hotel. All this we employ of Mr. March, contractor on the endured to testify our gratification at the railroad. He was dressed apparently for a political regeneration and disenthrallment of journey, and had been absent some two or the white men of West Virginia. Entler is a three weeks, but no uneasiness was felt by prince of good fellows, and, it may be said his friends, as his whereabouts were thought in very truth knows how to keep a hotel. to be known. Mr. Cummings was The party was at once invited into the parlor, comparatively a stranger here, but those who and as a preventative to taking cold, Entler knew him speak of him as [a] very worthy speedily produced a pitcher of smoking hot young gentleman, and there is certainly a whiskey punch. The Hon. A. R. Boteler, mystery about his sad fate which time even hearing of our presence, honored us with a may fail to unravel. No marks of violence visit, in spite of the storm, and entertained us were found on his person, and the complete for some time with his charming order of his clothing defeats any theory of conversation. We finally returned to the foul play. But who assisted him over the Washington and were good humoredly river and what were the particulars of his laughed at by those who remained on board, sorrowful end it were hard indeed to not having been sufficiently patriotic determine. - Williamsport Pilot. themselves to venture out on such night as that. But we hung our hats and coats by the

39 stove to dry, and said we were amply company a connection with the canal which compensated by the consciousness that we will answer their every purpose. Perhaps had discharged a patriotic duty." they will see this, and hence the suspension. The Frederick Union says: - Williamsport Pilot. "The scenery in this vicinity is grand beyond description. About 5 o'clock we 4/8/1871, p. 2. Chesapeake & Ohio arrived opposite Shepherdstown, Va., where Canal. - The receipts of the Chesapeake and we stopped for the night. It was right here Ohio Canal for Tolls for the month of that Rumsey put the first steamboat in March, 1871, reaches the large sum of motion. A number of our party started out $33,840, exceeding that of any previous in the rain to go over to Shepherdstown and year, for the same month, by the sum of while there spent a very pleasant hour with upwards of $30,000. The prospect for a Hon. A. R. Boteler. When they returned large business on the Canal never was better their hats and coats were filled with snow than now, and every endeavor will be put and next morning the ground was covered forth by the President and officers of the with it to the depth of about two inches." Company to make it the most successful year in the history of the Canal, both as 2/25/1871, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio regards receipts and the curtailment of Canal. - We learn that the board of expenditures. directors, at their last monthly meeting, resolved that the rates of toll upon coal from 5/6/1871, p. 2. Suicide. - A man by the Cumberland to Georgetown, for the season name of Woods, one day last week whilst of 1871, should be 46 cents per ton - the upon a canal boat in the vicinity of Harpers same that it has been for some years past. Ferry committed suicide by taking The work of taking sand-bars and making laudanum. He had sometime previously the necessary repairs to aqueducts, bridges, been employed upon the Canal. His body locks, &c., has, we understand, been was buried at Sandy Hook. vigorously prosecuted during the winter, and it is expected that the canal, throughout its 5/13/1871, p. 2. Canal All Right. - It was length, will be ready for the resumption of thought a day or two since that the high navigation by the 10th of March. Whether waters of the Potomac would injure to some the coal companies will be ready by that extent the Canal, but we have been informed time has not transpired. that a telegram has been received from the President of the line, who has made a 3/11/1871, p. 3. Work Suspended. - We personal inspection, stating that the Canal learn that work on the switch, necessary to was uninjured, and is intact throughout its make the proper connection with the canal at whole extent. Powell's Bend, has been suspended for the New Steamer. - The new steamer, R. present. When it is considered that this H. Castleman, has been plying the waters of switch will cost nearly, if not as much as a the C. & O. Canal, from Alexandria to switch into town from a point on the Cumberland. The Castleman is a screw Boonsboro road, with a right of way gratis, propeller, and has a ten horse power engine, it is simply inexplicable why this thing and carried 50 tons of coal. should have proceeded this far in the force of a prohibitory law. A few months and the 5/27/1871, p. 2. Young Man Killed. - We Western Maryland road will give this learn that a young man formerly of Ohio,

40 who went by the name of Eugene, a driver and we understand, that, hereafter, their on the Canal, was crushed to death by monthly disbursements will be considerably falling between the boat Greenless, upon increased. A few more manufacturing which he was engaged, and the side of a establishments amongst us like the Paper lock through which the boat was passing at Mill and Potomac Cement works will soon the time. The accident occurred somewhere revolutionize the business aspect of our between Williamsport and Hancock, but at venerable village and contribute greatly to what precise point we have not been the prosperity of our entire community. informed. The body was recovered soon after the distressing affair, but life was found 7/15/1871, p. 2. Tragedy at Paw Paw. - to be entirely extinct. His remains were On the 11th inst., a party of boatmen, conveyed to Cumberland where they were numbering five or six men got on a spree at interred. the seven mile level, near the canal tunnel, crossed over the river to Paw Paw station on 6/10/1871, p. 2. The Directors of the C. & the railroad, and, whilst, there entered O. Canal met Friday last in Baltimore. The Leonidas Bevans' store and demanded President submitted his report for the year liquor, which was refused them by the which was adopted. The earnings of the storekeeper in charge, Dr. Campbell. The Canal for the month of May were boatmen became enraged at his refusal to $68,039.09 and the expenditures $13,500. give them liquor, and maddened with what The increase of trade was $8,000 over the they had already drank, (which had been month of April, the receipts being larger procured from some other source) they than for any preceding month. The number began an indiscriminate destruction of the of tons of coal transported during May was goods in the store. Whilst engaged in this 120,900. Hon. James C. Clarke, was re- work the Doctor procured a pistol (a elected President, with the following revolver) from a neighbor, and returning to gentlemen as Directors: Gilmore Meredith, the store, fired upon the parties, emptying George S. brown, James G. Berret, Isaac the contents of the revolver upon them, Young, William S. McPherson and William when they retreated upon a full run for their Dodge. boats in the canal upon the opposite side of the river. Subsequently it was ascertained 7/8/1871, p. 2. The Potomac Mills. - We that of the party, Alfred Mose, of are glad to learn that the contract for the Sharpsburg, Md., and Joseph Wagoner, of Cement to be used in the construction of the Cumberland, were mortally wounded. Mose new State Department at Washington City, was shot in the stomach, breast and has been awarded to the Potomac Mills shoulder, and Wagoner in the stomach and Company, and will be furnished from their shoulder. Mose was taken in charge by works near this place. The amount of their friends and conveyed by boat to Sharpsburg present contract is for thirty-five thousand where his family resides. He is an old barrels, which, with their other orders, boatman, and is well known upon the line of compels them to increase their working the canal. Wagoner was taken home to force and to build an additional stack of Cumberland where he died. We believe kilns, which Messrs. McBee and Britner Mose is still living. These men are spoken have already begun. Heretofore, the of as quiet, peaceful persons when sober, Potomac Mills Company have been paying and the whole calamity attributed to out, for labor, &c., above $1,000 per month; strychnine whiskey.

41 7/22/1871, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. - A break Cement to Georgetown, which increases took place on the five mile level, a few days their facilities for shipping. The Company is ago, on the C. & O. Canal, by the washing now engaged in preparing their Mills for out of a portion of the bank, which will manufacturing Cement upon a large scale, in cause boating to cease until repairs are order to fill their contract of 30,000 barrels made. for the building of the large Government No Boating on the Sabbath. - edifices at Washington to be erected there in President Clarke, of the Chesapeake and a short time. Ohio Canal, has published a notice that on and after the first Sunday in August next no 8/19/1871, p. 2. Drowned. - We learn that boats will be allowed to pass through any of a colored boy named Charley Howard, the locks on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal employed upon the Canal Boat of Capt. J. H. on the Sabbath day. There has been an order L. Hunter, was drowned in the Potomac at against Sunday boating for some time, but it Shepherd's Landing above town, on has never been rigidly enforced. The order Saturday last. It seems that he had gotten will be strictly carried out in [the] future. off the boat and swam across the Potomac to an orchard for the purpose of getting apples. 7/29/1871, p. 2. Arrested. - Officer Rice of When attempting to return, with a Sandy Hook arrested at the Harpers Ferry handkerchief full of apples tied around his Lock, on the C. & O. Canal, on Wednesday neck, he drowned. His mother resides in of last week, Jim Scott, Captain of the Canal this place, and is named Kate Howard. Boat "Mary Alice," charged with having stabbed one of his employees named John 8/26/1871, p. 2. Homicide. - At Smith, near Alexandria. Georgetown on Saturday evening last, a white man named Milton Ward and a negro 8/5/1871, p. 2. Outrage. - An outrage upon man named John Allen, alias Lewis, the person of a young girl fourteen years of employed on board a Canal Boat named "F. age, of the name of Krone, daughter of E. Mertens" and owned by Mr. F. E. Abraham Krone, captain of a Canal boat, Mertens, of Cumberland, got engaged in a was perpetrated a few days ago on the canal quarrel on the boat, when Lewis used between this place and Williamsport, by a profane and indecent language in the colored man, a hand on the boat. He was presence of the wife of the Captain of the committed to the Hagerstown Jail to answer boat, Mr. Benjamin Davis, and was ordered for the crime. to desist. He refused, and Ward seized a musket and struck Lewis over the head, 8/12/1871, p. 2. Another Breach. - We knocking him overboard, and jumped into learn that another break occurred in the C. & the canal and swam ashore and fled. Lewis O. Canal on Monday morning last, near went to the bottom, and his body was Dam No. 5, above this place. A number of dragged for and recovered on Monday hands are now employed repairing the same, morning. Ward escaped upon an upward and which will impede boating but a very bound boat, which was followed and short time. overtaken, and Ward found on board under a Steamer. - A Steamer is now bundle of hay, in the cabin of the boat. He engaged in plying the waters of the C. & O. was taken back to the Chain bridge, where Canal. The Potomac Mills Company, near an inquest was held, and a verdict rendered this place, have a steamboat carrying their in accordance with the above facts. Ward

42 was committed to jail to await the action of the Grand Jury. Ward is well known in this community, and was formerly employed upon the boat owned by Mr. W. B. Cost.

9/9/1871, p. 2. Killed. - "John," a colored boy, aged about 18 years, employed as a driver on the canal boat F. A. Mertens, was kicked by one of the mules of the boat team on Thursday last, while passing one of the four locks, from the effects of which he died on Saturday morning. Nothing was known of the boy, and he was buried in the potter's field.

11/18/1871, p. 2. A meeting of the Board of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company was held in Baltimore on Friday last. All the members of the Board were present. The report for the month of October showed the receipts to be $52,816.20, expenses

$15,023, leaving a net earnings of 11/25/1871, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio $37,994.20. Canal. - Hon. James C. Clarke, President of The following advertisement the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, indicates that Cumberland Coal was for sale has issued an order to have the water drawn in Shepherdstown. off the canal on Wednesday, December 20th, throughout the line, in order to make the necessary winter repairs and requests all persons to make their arrangements accordingly. Large Contract. - Messrs. Shepherd & Chapline, Coal and Lumber dealers of this town, have contracted to furnish the Potomac Cement Mills, near this place, with one hundred tons of Cumberland Coal. Coal of any kind can be obtained of this firm at reasonable prices. Drowned. - On Thursday night last, a colored man named Charles Adams fell from a boat into the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, near Hancock, and was drowned. His body was recovered and taken to Williamsport.

43 12/16/1871, p. 2. Acquitted. - In the 2/24/1872, p. 2. Resuming Operations. - Criminal Court of Washington City, on Several of the Directors, including Major Tuesday last, Milton Ward, charged with Blunt, of the Potomac Mills Mining and killing John Allen, a colored man, by Manufacturing Company, near this place, knocking him from a canal boat into the from Washington City, were here during the canal, where he was drowned, on the 20th of past week, making arrangements to resume August last, was brought up for trial. Self- operations in the manufacture of Cement. defense was set up by the accused, but the This will be cheering news to the many prosecution failed to prove the fact of hands who have been employed for some homicide, and the jury returned a verdict of years past. This Company we learn has acquittal without leaving the box. large demands upon them for this excellent quality of Cement from Washington City, 12/30/1871, p. 2. Boat Sunk. - We learn and other cities in the North and South. that a Canal boat, belonging to the Cement Mills Company, below town, ladened with 3/3/1872, p. 2. The Cumberland News some 800 barrels of Cement, destined for says: - "Considerable activity prevails at the Washington City, sank in the C. & O. Canal, various boatyards in Cumberland, Md. last week, near Harpers Ferry. A large From each a number of fine new boats have quantity of the Cement was saved. The been launched during the winter, and more sinking of the boat was caused by a stone are on the stocks being rapidly hurried to cutting a hole into the bottom of the boat. completion. The addition of new boats to the coal trade the coming season will be 1/6/1872, p. 2. C. & O. C. - Thanks are upwards of fifty from the Cumberland yards due President Clarke, Chesapeake and Ohio alone, besides a large number built at Canal, for a copy of his Report to the various points along the line of the canal." Stockholders and Board of Directors of the Company. The Company appears to be in a 3/16/1872, p. 2. The Georgetown Coal more prosperous condition than ever before. Trade. - The Washington Star of Saturday The net earnings for the six months says: - "The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, it preceding December amounted to nearly a is expected, will be reopened throughout its half million of Dollars, and this coal tonnage entire length on Monday next, and our was some 238,000 tons greater than during Georgetown neighbors, whose business the same time of the previous year. The interests are dependent upon, or closely increase of revenue and the decrease of connected with, that channel of commerce, expenses are very favorable testimonials to will commence the season under unusually present management of the Canal. auspicious circumstances. The coal trade of our sister city, which is already one of great 1/20/1872, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. - The magnitude, promises this year to be larger directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal and more prosperous than ever before. Last Company, at their regular monthly meeting year about 900,000 tons of Cumberland coal at Frederick, Md., on the 12th instant, fixed were landed at the docks, and this season, it the rates of toll on coal from Cumberland to is believed, from the fact the canal has been Georgetown, during the boating season of put in thorough repair and a large number of 1872, the same as for 1871; viz: 46 cts. per new boats have been built, that the amount ton. shipped from the mines to Georgetown will reach 1,000,000 tons."

44 5/25/1872, p. 2. Accidents on the Canal. - 3/30/1872, p. 2. Fire at Four Locks. - On Miss French, from Cherry Run, Morgan Tuesday of last week a house located at the County, W. Va., was drowned on Sunday Four Locks, formerly belonging to John G. night last at seven o'clock, by falling Stone but at the time of its destruction overboard from the canal boat "W. A. owned and occupied by Lewis Fernsner, was Stevens," at Reeside's Landing, on the totally consumed by fire - including its Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. entire contents. The origin of the fire was On Monday night last, a stranger was accidental. found dead at the 65-mile station, on the canal above Harpers Ferry. He was 4/13/1872, p. 2. The Cumberland News of completely riddled with shot by some Friday says: _ "Yesterday was another 'big unknown person, and the report of the gun day' on this end of the canal, as forty-three was distinctly heard on the opposite side of boats were loaded and dispatched from this the river, and some parties coming over next port, carrying 4,741.14 tons of coal." morning, found the dead body covered with leaves. 4/27/1872, p. 2. Fish. - David Billmyer's boat arrived on Tuesday night from 6/22/1872, p. 2. Stock to the C. & O. Georgetown ladened with a large supply of Canal. - Having accidently found the shad and herring which "went off" like "hot original alphabetical list of the original cakes." They were the first of the season via subscribers, at this place (nearly half a the C. & O. Canal, and sold at $1.25 per century ago, 1830,) to the capitol Stock of hundred for herring and 15 cents for shad. the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, we publish Brisk. - Since the resumption of it as a matter of interest to our citizens. The Canal navigation, the river business of our stock ranges from $10 up to $250, taken by place has been quite brisk; and we learn, that each individual - the Corporation of besides the large amounts of flour, grain, Shepherdstown $250, the whole amounting &c., which have been shipped from to some $2,000: - Henry Boteler, George W. Shepherdstown this spring, some 3,500 Bond, Henry Berry, John Briscoe, Edward barrels of cement have also been sent off Bennett, Martin Billmyer, Daniel Buckles, from the Potomac Mills, where they now Conrad Billmyer, William Butler, John T. have upwards of forty hands at work. Cookus, Peter Crowl, Samuel Engle, George Entler, Joseph Engle, Solomon Entler, 5/11/1872, p. 2. Canal man Shot. - On last Daniel Entler, Richard Gautrell, Jacob V. Saturday the captain of the canal boat Goull, Charles Harper, Thomas Hite, "Owl," Cyrus Fisher, passing in the vicinity Michael Hensell, Henry Line, Jos of Seneca, about thirty miles above McMurran, John Motter, John Quigley, Georgetown, got into a difficulty with George Reynolds, Corporation of another captain by the name of Arrington in Shepherdstown, Joseph Smith, James consequence of the former's boat passing the Shepherd, A. Shafer, Henry Shepherd, boat of the latter. Some words ensued when William Short, B. F. Towner, Baker Arrington procured a shotgun and firing shot Tapscott, George Weis. Fisher in the legs, seriously disabling, but C. & O. Canal. - The newly elected not dangerously wounding him. He was president and directors of the Chesapeake carried to Cumberland where he resides. and Ohio Canal met in Baltimore on Monday last. President Gorman and all the

45 members were present except Daniel S. citizens called at the Taylor House to pay Biser, Esq., of Frederick County, who was their respects to the party, and were absent on account of illness. Mr. geo. S. pleasantly entertained. The new president is Brown offered a resolution that James C. quite youthful in appearance, but is Clarke, Esq., be elected general evidently a rising man, and we hope his superintendent of the canal at a salary of administration of canal affairs may be $5,000 per year. Mr. Michael Bannon successful. The party left here on Thursday moved that the consideration of the morning for Harpers Ferry, where they will resolution be postponed until the next take the cars for Baltimore in order to meet meeting of the board. Mr. Brown then the Board of Directors which assembles withdrew his resolution. Mr. Bannon there on Saturday. - Williamsport Pilot. offered a resolution directing the president to employ a competent engineer to 7/13/1872, p. 2. Business on the C. & O. accompany him on a visit of inspection of Canal, which had slackened up for the the whole line of the canal, to ascertain what harvest is becoming brisk again. repairs, if any, are necessary for its proper navigation the present year. Mr. Gilmore 7/20/1872, p. 2. Painful Accident Meredith proposed as an amendment that On Friday last, Edward Kershaw, James C. Clarke, Esq., be invited to (better known as Ed Arthur) of this town, accompany the president and engineer on met with a painful, and at the time supposed their tour of inspection; which was accepted to be fatal, accident. He is employed on the and the resolution adopted by the board. canal boat "T. & S. Coulehan," and when near Dam No. 6, on the C. & O. Canal, 6/29/1872, p. 2. Death on the Canal. - On another boat - the "John H. Gatrill" - Wednesday evening last, we learn, that Mr. attempting to pass the boat struck her with Chas. Stewart, of Hancock, Md., died of some force, causing Ed to lose his balance hemorrhage of the lungs on his boat, on the and fall overboard. In falling he was caught C. & O. Canal, at the Lock, opposite this between the two boats and severely jammed town. His family was with him upon the about the breast. He was brought home on boat at the time of his death. Dr. Tinsley of Saturday and is attended by Dr. Manning this town was sent for, but before he arrived and has so far recovered as to be out and the vital spark had fled. His age was about upon our streets again. 38 years. His remains were taken back to Hancock for interment. 10/12/1872, p. 2. The wharf, at the Potomac, is wearing a busy aspect, in the 7/6/1872, p. 3. Tour of Inspection. - Hon. unloading of straw, coal, lumber and brick. A. P. Gorman, President of the Chesapeake "Things is moving." & Ohio Canal Company, in company with John P. Gatrell purchased the canal Hon. Jas. C. Clarke, its late president, and boat belonging to the estate of H. Smith W. R. Hutton, Esq., Chief Engineer W. M. Crowl, on Monday last, for $275.00. Railroad, arrived in this place on Wednesday last, having travelled over the 11/23/1872, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. waters of the canal in a yawl boat. Mr. The horse disease on the Chesapeake Gorman is making a thorough inspection of and Ohio Canal has assumed quite a serious the work, in which he is assisted by the late aspect among the horses used. The president and engineer. A number of our Superintendent reports that a number of

46 boats have been tied up for the last two been for many years, a sterling Democrat, weeks and that the revenues will be and when the polls of old Middletown and materially reduced in consequence for Hauver's District were counted out Daniel S. weeks to come. Biser lead the column. Mr. B. is a plain and substantial farmer, and could always "hoe 11/30/1872, p. 2. Found Dead. - The body his row" in stump speaking with "any other of James Donahoe, who has been working man." Often did we listen with pleasure to for Mr. Marsh, contractor for the Potomac his speeches. and Martinsburg Railroad, was found dead, lying partly on the berm bank of the Canal, 1/25/73, p. 2. Rise in the Potomac. - The and partly in the water, a few miles above thaw and rain of last week caused a rise in town, on Friday of last week. The jury the Potomac river on Friday night of last rendered a verdict of disease and exposure. week which removed the ice. By the overflow of the water, almost fifty tons of Ches. & Ohio Canal. - The weather having Coal, belonging to Messrs. Shepherd & moderated to some extent and no fears being Chapline, and a portion belonging to the entertained that for a few weeks yet the proprietors of the Paper Mill, upon the wharf canal will be seriously affected with ice, it at this place, were swept away. We have has been concluded by President Gorman to heard of no serious damage being done keep it open until compelled to suspend in along the Potomac by the overflow of water consequence of the weather. or ice.

12/7/1872, p. 2. Daniel S. Biser, Esq. - C. 2/1/73, p. 2. Sad Accident. - George W. & O. Canal - President Gorman and the Patterson, aged fifteen years, was killed on Directors of the C. & O. Canal Company, Saturday last, at the residence of Mr. have concluded their tour of inspection over Hammond, near Dam No. 4, Washington the line of the Canal. The Canal was found county, Md., by the discharge of a gun with in fair condition, but some improvements which his associates were playing, the gun were ordered to be made upon the being loaded, but as it is asserted, without a permanent works of the same after the close cap "on it." of navigation. Daniel S. Biser, Esq., of Middleton Valley, Frederick County, Md., is 2/8/73, p. 3. Canal Bill. - The bill of Mr. one of the Directors, and was among the Ritchie, of Maryland, in reference to a canal number who made the tour of inspection, from the Ohio river to the seaboard is now and in passing under a bridge on the Canal, before the House Committee on Commerce. his hat was knocked off, and they all It provides that the Secretary of War cause concluded the bridge was too low. It examinations, or surveys, of both to be made certainly was very low to have knocked off to ascertain the most feasible route for slack- our old friend's hat, because Mr. B. is a very water or canal navigation between tide- low man, that is in stature, but stands high in water and the Ohio river, by way of the the estimation of the public. In our Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, first from the "boyhood days" he was elected to the mouth of the south branch of the Potomac Maryland Legislature some half dozen terms river, up and along said river, and by way of in succession, and well do we remember of the Elk and Great Kanawha river, to Point frequently "throwing up" our "straw hat" in Pleasant, on the Ohio river; secondly, from hurrahing for Daniel S. Biser. He is, and has the City of Cumberland, up and along the

47 north branch of the Potomac river, thence by 4/5/73, p. 2. High Waters. - The water in or near St. George's Court House, along the Potomac the first part of this week was Hughes of Little Kanawha River to booming in greater quantities than at any Parkersburg; and thirdly, in connection with period this Spring. Very little damage was said second, or last named line, from the done, however, along the line of the river said north branch, by way of the and canal. Youghiogheny river and the Monongahela river to Pittsburg. 5/10/73. p. 2. Paying off Bonds. - A. P. Gorman, President of the C. & O. Canal, 2/22/73, p. 2. Coal Tolls on the advertises that the Coupons on the preferred Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. - The Construction Bonds of that Company, due Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company has January 1857, will be paid on presentation, increased the toll on coal five cents per ton, at the Banking House of Alexander Brown making the rate per ton from Cumberland to & Sons, Baltimore, on and after May 1st, Georgetown, by that route fifty one cents, 1873. instead of forty six cents as heretofore. The Lock-Keeper Removed. - Hezekiah increase has been ratified by the board of Reynolds, who has had charge of the public works of Maryland, and by the stock- "Lock," on the C. & O. Canal, opposite this holders at their meeting at Annapolis on place, for a number of years past, has been Tuesday. The object is to improve facilities removed; from what cause we have not for transportation and wharfage, and at the heard. same time reduce the debt of the company. Cement Works. - These Mills are now manufacturing Cement to their fullest 3/15/73, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. - Quite a capacity, of an excellent quality, and are number of boats, which were "tied up" shipping the article via the C. & O. Canal to during the winter, at this point, have "pulled Washington. Quite a number of hands are out" for Cumberland, and by the middle of employed. Mr. John H. Schoppert, who next week the Canal will be alive with boats superintends the work, gives prompt and ladened with coal destined for the efficient attention. Georgetown and Alexandria markets. There Fish. - David Billmyer's boat arrived is a great demand in the Northern and from Georgetown on Saturday last with a Eastern markets for Cumberland coal. cargo of herring and shad, the former sold at $1,25 per hundred and six shad for $1, They 3/29/73, p. 2. Canal Difficulty. - A went off like "hot cakes" and didn't supply difficulty has occurred at Cumberland the demand. between the boatmen and the coal companies, in consequence of the price for 5/17/73, p. 2. Navigation Fully Resumed. - freights. The boatmen demand $1.45 and Boats on the C. & O. Canal, after a few days $1.50 for coal to Georgetown and delay on account of high water, are now Alexandria, whilst the companies will only briskly passing up and down the canal. agree to give $1.35 naf $1.40. A suspension Reports from the whole line make no of operations, but for how long we cannot mention of injury done this work by the say, is the result. All parties interested must flood and no interruption done navigation live, therefore, we may look for a for the season is now anticipated. compromise soon. Rise in the Potomac, &c. - The recent rains have caused a great rise in the

48 Potomac, as to threaten some of the houses O. Canal, a short distance below the along the banks with destruction. Especially Antietam Iron Works, three miles below this was this the case at Guard Lock, Dam No. 4. town, which will require some days to There the merchants, Messrs. Daily and repair, and causing a suspension of Lemen, had their goods packed ready to navigation. A considerable distance of the move at short notice. The rains detained at bank, including the tow path, gave way and that place a large number of canal boats. On was washed out into the river, clean and last Monday morning the boatmen began to effectually. A leak was observed for some quarrel and fight among themselves. One days previous, but no idea was entertained whose name we could not learn was that so much damage would have resulted. severely cut in the melee. 8/16/73, p. 2. Mules Killed. - During the 6/14/73. p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal heavy storm of wind, rain and hail, which Company. - On Monday last, A. P. Gorman, passed over the northern portion of this was re-elected President of the Chesapeake locality, on Tuesday morning last, two and Ohio Canal Company for the ensuing valuable mules, owned by Mr. Robert J. year, and Messrs. James G. Berret, Gilmore Kimball, of this town, were instantly killed Meredith, Patrick Hamil, G. M. Watkins, by a tree falling upon them, while hitched Daniel S. Biser and M. Bannan as directors. beside the tow path, on the C. & O. Canal, We take for granted Mr. Benjamin Fawcett on the five mile level above this town. To will be re-elected Secretary. President show the severity of the storm, the tree Gorman's annual report was submitted which was uprooted and fell upon these which represents the Canal and its earnings mules, measure 2 1/2 feet across the stump. as satisfactory. Another break, or rather a re-break, in the canal, at the point mentioned near 7/9/73, p. 2. Shooting affray at Antietam Iron Works, last week, occurred Cumberland, Md. - On Sunday afternoon a shortly after it was thought to be in order to shooting affray occurred at Cumberland, let the water in, which suspended navigation Md., between two canal boatmen. Wm. for several days. Parker, of the "Annie McQuade," and Henry Killed. - We learn that during the Myers, of another boat, in which the latter hail storm of Monday night last, a dog was was shot after a quarrel. Parker delivered killed by the hail, on the C. & O. Canal. himself up, and was committed in default of Destruction of Property. - We learn $300 bail to await the action of the grand that during the violent rain, wind and hail jury. Myers is about 30 years old. He is an storm, on Tuesday morning last, the saw old boatman, having been in the employ of mill belonging to Mr. Dovenberger, near Hassett Brothers, of Four Locks, for a Mercerville, on the C. & O. Canal, was number of years. His present boat is owned washed away, and the barn belonging to Mr. by Capt. John Tice, of Washington county. John Gatrell, above Mercerville, was blown Both hail from Washington county, Md. down. Myers was under the influence of liquor and quarrelsome. 8/23/73, p. 2. Death. - We learn that Mr. William Jones, lock keeper, on the C. & O. 8/9/73, p. 2. Breach in the C. & O. Canal. Canal, one mile above town, died suddenly We learn that on Tuesday morning on Wednesday evening last, aged about 30 last, a very large breach occurred in the C. &

49 years. It is rumored that his death was 8/30/73, p. 2. An altercation occurred on caused by cholera. Thursday last, at the two locks, head of Big Changes on the Canal. - The Slack Water, between two colored men, Hagerstown Daily of Wednesday says, some Oliver Hicks and an unknown party. Hicks little stir was created yesterday by the report received a severe cut of the upper lip, and that wholesale removals had been made several teeth knocked out, the other escaped upon the canal. Among the prominent unhurt. names mentioned were those of Discharged. - Mr. Shea, Superintendent Shey and Jacques, and a Superintendent of the Division of the C. & number of their subordinates. It was O. Canal from Big Slack Water to Harpers generally believed that the report as to Shey Ferry, and his boss, Mr. Renner, were both was true, but that as to Jacques appeared to discharged by President Gorman, on be in some doubt. Tuesday last for mending the late breach in Pictures and Books Belonging to the canal with "sand." Mrs. Gen. Lee Sunk in the Canal. - We Drowned. - A colored woman on yesterday saw at the commission house of Captain Harper's boat from Alexandria was Mr. Geo. A. Kinnear a quantity of books, drowned in the Canal on Thursday last a few pictures, &c. belonging to Mrs. Gen. R. E. miles above this place. She was making fire Lee, which were in a badly damaged with coal oil, when her clothes took fire and condition from having been sunk in the wrapped in a livid sheet of flames she canal. They were aboard the freight boat jumped into the canal and was drowned. "Cadet," Capt. Hicks, belonging to Mr. R. E. The remains were recovered and taken back Staton, of this city, for transportation to to Williamsport and buried. Also a colored Lexington, when by encountering a snag the man in the employ of Capt. Metz, on board boat was sunk in Judith's pond on the canal boat "H. J. Kenah," lying at Wednesday night. The cargo was recovered Mercerville, in attempting to cross the canal and brought down to the city, much injured, on a hatch. however, by its submersion. The articles Crushed Between Boats. - A man belonging to Mrs. lee consisted of oil named Mullen, of Washington County, Md., paintings, engravings, books, &c. and are a hand on Capt. Long's boat, on the C. & O. pretty thoroughly soaked. We suppose they Canal, was by some means caught between have recently been removed by her from two boats in the neighborhood of Harpers Arlington. In one of the books, a school ferry on Wednesday, and crushed in such a geography, we noticed the inscription: "R. manner as to endanger his life. E. Lee, esq., 1818, Alexandria Academy," which was evidently the boyish chirography 9/6/73, p. 2. Another Serious Break in the of our late illustrious Chief. Mr. Kinnear, Canal. - On Sunday night last another under direction of Mr. Fisher, the artist, is serious break occurred in the Canal at a doing all that he can to restore and preserve point about three miles west of Harpers the pictures and books. One of the former is Ferry. About fifty feet of the embankment a portrait of Col. Daniel Parks, aide to the was washed out, presenting to boatmen and Duke of Marlborough at the battle of others interested a frightful appearance. At Brooklyn. - Lynchburg Virginian, Aug. the point where the break occurred there is 1873. said to have existed a leak for several years, but it was never considered of sufficient importance to require serious attention. A

50 suspension of navigation for probably six or 11/22/73, p. 2. Canal Navigation. - There seven days, we are informed, will occur, were three temporary suspensions in canal which, in addition to the many other navigation last week, one by a sunken boat, disasters which have happened to the canal near Six Locks, and the two others by the during the present season, will make it washing out of lock gates, near the tunnel extremly unfortunate for those engaged in and near Shepherdstown. boating and really disastrous to dealers at both ends of the line who have immense 1/31/74, p. 2. The engineers who surveyed amounts invested in businesses largely the proposed route for the extension of the dependent upon the seasonable navigation of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal from the canal. Cumberland, Maryland, to the waters of the Bitten by a Rattlesnake. - Robert Alleganies, have completed their labors, and Patton, of Capt. Garrish's boat, while are now engaged in preparing a report, detained at the late break, near Harpers which will be transmitted during the present Ferry, thought he would like to dine on a session of Congress to that body through the mess of corn and to that end went into a near chief of engineers of the army. corn field and while in the act of helping himself trod upon a rattlesnake which bit 2/21/74, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. - It is said him twice in the leg. Patton, in a freight, ran that the water will be let in the C. & O. all the way to Harpers ferry, where a Canal by the first of March, and our physician made him gloriously drunk on a boatmen are fixing up for a Spring and gallon or so of bust head, and saved his life. Summer campaign.

9/13/73, p. 2. Drowned in the Canal. - A 3/14/74, p. 3. Canal Items. - On the 19th little boy, some three years of age, son of inst., the Convention of the friends of the Mr. Samuel Sowers, residing at Charles' project to extend by national aid the Mill in Clearspring District, Washington Chesapeake & Ohio Canal across the county, Md., fell into the Chesapeake and Allegany mountains to Pittsburg, will be Ohio Canal, on Saturday evening, the 30th held in the latter city. The Delegation from ult. It is supposed that the child was in Maryland consists of Hons. George A. search of its father, who was working about Pearre, W. W. McKaig, A. P. Gorman, John the Canal, and thus fell in and was drowned. Ritchie, Patrick Hamill, Lloyd Lowndes and It was recovered after being in the water Messrs. C. Slack, J. A. Millholland and M. about an hour. Brannon. President Gorman, who has returned 10/4/73, p. 2. Dead Body Found. - The to Annapolis from a trip over the line of the dead body of an unknown man was washed canal, reports the repairs to the work as up by a passing boat between the Two Locks nearly completed, and directions have been and the mouth of the Opequon on Friday given to have the entire line in readiness for morning of last week. A jury was shipment of coal on the 10th of March. summoned and an inquest on the remains The repairs to the Alexandria canal, was held. All that could be ascertained of including the extensive one at the Aqueduct the man's antecedents was that he had been and Four Mile Run - at the latter place a an employee on the boat "Iowa," Capt. basin and new waste gate are in progress of Butts, and had most probably came to his construction - will be completed in time to death by accidental drowning. allow the letting on of the water by the 10th.

51 The repairs on the Georgetown level 5/23/74, p. 2. Excursion to Maryland were completed last Saturday. Heights. - Nearly the entire school, male The building of the railroad wall at and female, of Shepherd College, took an the Williamsport basin and the other work excursion trip to Maryland Heights, upon that basin, was finished by the yesterday, on the C. & O. Canal. We hope contractor, Mr. Lewis G. Stanhope - a they had a pleasant time. The school took couple of weeks since. passage on Mr. David Billmyer's boat, and Mr. Stanhope has also been were in charge of Professors McMurran and appointed Superintendent of Division, in Smeltzer. place of Mr. Denton Jacques. The weather has been very An item in the Harbor and River propitious and the business of the canal this Appropriation bill appropriates $5,000 for season will open with great liveliness - an continuing the survey of the Chesapeake & immense amount of repairs having been Ohio Canal to Pittsburgh. done during the winter. - Hagerstown Mail. 5/30/74, p. 2. School Excursion. - The New mile posts are to be erected cadets of St. John's Academy, says the along the line of the C. & O. Canal, in order Alexandria Gazette, have chartered the canal that boatmen may better keep their reconing. boat Trunnell, an old fashioned grain boat with a deck over her entire length, and will 4/18/74, p. 2. Lock Keeper. - Mr. Levi start next Monday morning, June 1st, on a Porter, of Sharpsburg, Md., has been trip up the canal returning on the following appointed Keeper of the Lock, on the Saturday. They will visit the Great Falls of Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, at Bridgeport, the Potomac, the Point of Rocks, Harpers opposite this town. The appointment is said Ferry, Shepherdstown, Antietam and other to be a good one. places of interest, and expect to have a good time generally. 5/2/74, p. 2. The forty thousand shad and herring, brought by Mr. David Billmyer's Thanks. - We are requested by the boat, from Alexandria, on Friday last, went teachers and pupils of Shepherd Collage, to off like "hot cakes." Shad, five for $1, and make a public acknowledgement of their herring $1.50 per hundred. thanks to Mr. David Billmyer, for his kindness in allowing them to use his boat, 5/9/74, p. 2. Boat Sunk. - The canal boat and to Capt. John Crow and his crew for "Ironsides," Capt. B. V. Ardinger, of their kind attention and service. Williamsport, sank on the Williamsport level, on mile from that place, on Tuesday 6/6/74, p. 2. Excursion of Shepherd last. The water was drawn down several College. - The fairest of May days seemed feet, causing a stoppage of about forty eight to have moved from its orthodox place in the hours. calendar, to come upon the Friday set for the excursion of the students and teachers of Three canal boats to be propelled by Shepherd College to Maryland Heights. The steam, are now being built at Cumberland. day which superstition still holds as Mule power will soon be at a discount. unlucky, proved to be the most auspicious that could have been chosen during all the spring.

52 At the dewy dawn the town was while only a fourth part reached the summit alive with young folks fluttering about as if of the hill. on the wings and with pic nic baskets, on A general impression prevails that wheels hurrying riverward. At the none of these hills are over 2,000 feet high. appointed hour the picnickers were all But we were informed by Mr. Unseld that assembled on the College green, and the height of the first fort was measured by a precisely at six the bell struck and the Federal engineer and found to be 1,500 feet procession formed and marched to the river, - the upper fort of the crest is as much higher crossed the bridge, and embarked on the or about 3,000 feet - and this is only about good and substantial canal boat, "W. H. two-thirds the height of the tallest point on Billmyer," kindly tendered by its owner for the Blue Ridge, or Black Rock. the occasion. An outsider would at once The scene or scenes from the crest conclude that promptness was one of the fort are famous and need no description. virtues taught in this College, for in the Toward the East the view overreached whole course of the day there was not a Pleasant Valley, Middletown Valley - far single delay beyond the appointed time. down the Potomac you can imagine the The fast folks of this age make it an Atlantic in the blue indistinct distance. especial point to sneer at canal boat riding Westward the Shenandoah Valley to the for pleasure. But surely an easy going ride, North Mountain range - a view, much alike, at only four miles an hour on the Potomac yet not so magnificent or startling as that from Antietam to Harpers Ferry is less Black Rock. In grandeur and sweep of monotonous and worrying than being country the famous scenes along the whirled through the blank western prairies at Hudson, from Fort Putnam, for instance, a mile a minute. The route affords a cannot compare with these. panorama of beauty, and the slow ride gives The mountains even to the crest were full time for its enjoyment. At this time the sprinkled with flowers, wood violets and foliage was the greenest and fullest of spring fragrant shrubs. Angels footsteps they well for the summer sun had not yet crisped or might be called here, most too high for any darkened it. The boat was cheered along its but angel footstep. way by the children of the homes it was But the party having scaled the passing by, who looked eagerly and sadly at mountain, some of them in fee simple and this floating hive of glee and joy, sad that others by proxy, all gathered at the river they were not among the happy crowd. without being balled thither by the song of Before 10 o'clock the boat landed the party that name, for the pic nic dinner. This was at the lock some distance above the Ferry, spread on the bank between the canal and whence they should turn landward and climb Potomac, and there, upon the grassy mound, the mountain. A pleasant trough steep walk the pies, cakes and chickens, met in an to the mountain from the house of Collins indiscriminate massacre. Mountain Unseld, who welcomed the party with an old climbing incites voracity. After dinner Rev. Virginia hospitality, and moreover guided Mr. Hawkins led off a minority to gaze upon them up to the first fort. But mountain the departed glories of Harpers ferry, others climbing soon thinned the ranks - a great started among the mountains or by rthe part indeed had already determined to riverside, and some went to the famous land remain at the beautiful spring near Mr. of Nod. At 5 o'clock the boat gathered in its Unseld's house - others grew faint by the freight and started homeward. Dusk wayside and deserted the storming column, overtook us, but the good old pilot still

53 steered on by the evening star, which stood blast furnace, and, after being courteously full at the head of our course. Home at early shown through the entire establishment, the candlelight, and the dews of night were party witnessed the novel and beautiful sight falling fast but none of the party shouted the of the making of pig iron. Before dark they war cry of Excelsior as they climbed the were mustered on the hay, in the stable loft, river hill, too weary for that. but as no lights could be carried there, those The thanks of the party and their not inclined to sleep, and who knew that friends are due to the Professors and they could not be identified, had a gay time Teachers of the College for their excellent tumbling about in the hay, and pronounced management and praiseworthy promptness, their night there the most delightful on the and to Mr. Billmyer whose kindness trip, an estimate not quite agreed to by those "transported" all concerned. who wished to sleep. At six on Thursday morning the boat 6/13/74, p. 2. Excursion on the C. & O. left for Harpers Ferry, as the Catholics on Canal. - The cadet corps of St. John's board desired to attend Mass at that place, it Academy, of Alexandria, made a trip up the being the Feast of Corpus Christi; so much C. & O. Canal, on a canal boat, on the 1st delay, however, was experienced in the instant. An account of the trip is published locks that they arrived at St. Peter's Church in the Alexandria Gazette, from which we just as the congregation was leaving it. clip the following extract. - The rest of the morning was devoted At 2:30 a. m. the boat stopped to visiting Jefferson's Rock and other points opposite Harpers Ferry, but the guard only of interest, and after dinner in the armory was awake, and it was not until the cold gray yard, made famous by John Brown's raid, of the morning dawned that the boys saw the invitations were accepted from two quaint old village, its churches perched upon gentlemen to visit them. The line of march rocks, and its houses rising in tiers above was accordingly taken up and upon arriving each other. The rain had now begun to fall, at the residence of Mayor Chambers on but at 10 a. m. the boat started for Camp Hill, that gentleman came out and in a Shepherdstown. Soon, however, the rain very brief, but appropriate speech, to which fell faster and faster, and the boys were Major Collins replied with equal brevity, driven from the deck only to find that the invited the party into his garden, where Rev. seams opened by the sum admitted water, Messrs. Kain, of the Catholic Church, Marsh and the leaks in the roof of the cabin were of the M. E. Church, and Robey of the M. E. rapidly wetting both the floor and the Church South, and a number of handsome bedding. At one, Antietam Furnace was young ladies, their hands filled with reached, and a more forlorn looking crowd bouquets for distribution were seated. Cool has seldom landed there. Dinner was served lemonade was dispensed with liberal out in the rain, however, and a friend in need hospitality, the bouquets were handed round, was found in Mr. Sheaffer, the agent of the and the guns and swords of the cadets works, who responded to the request of the having been placed in a large wagon sent by Principal for the use of the large stable loft Mr. C. J. Hagan, the rest with the ladies, for his tired and wet boys with a courtesy of ended their way to the residence of that manner which made the boon doubly gentlemen on Bolivar Heights where several acceptable. Clothes and blankest were dried hours were spent most delightfully. Iced by the long lines of blazing coal which the lemonade and cakes were first served, a men were converting into coke, and by the carriage was placed at the disposal of those

54 who wished to drive the young ladies We were informed last evening that towards Halltown, while Mr. Hagan, who the boatmen of the C. & O. Canal at this was one of the Confederates under place had struck for an increase of pay over Stonewall Jackson, who forced Miles to the rate at present given by the companies surrender, conducted a large party over the for the transportation of coal from this point battle-field and pointed out the positions, to Georgetown and Alexandria. From all &c., of that eventful day. that we can learn the facts are these. The Towards evening, the whole party companies had been paying one dollar and was entertained at supper by their boat and thirty five cents per ton from Cumberland to came into the Ferry delighted with the Georgetown, and one dollar and forty cents generous hospitality they had experienced. to Alexandria. We have it from one source, Many were again invited to the house of that those rates obtained among what is Mayor Chambers, where they passed a most called line boats but that other boats outside agreeable evening with the young ladies of would come in and for the sake of obtaining the neighborhood. a load would agree to transport the coal at a reduced price per ton and the system of 6/20/74, p. 2. Fast Time for a Canal reduction was continued which of course Boatman. - Capt. Brown Austin, of the involved the other boats until the rates were canal boat Benj. Williamson, (a widower,) diminished from the price given above to the made the acquaintance of Mrs. Susie Jones, rates of one dollar and twenty cents and one (a widow,) in this city, on Monday night, the dollar and twenty five cents to Georgetown 8th instant, and after courting all night long, and Alexandria respectively. At this point repaired with his lady love to Washington the boatmen struck, as they allege the yesterday, where they were united in figures being unremuneretive and marriage, and they are now sailing up the C. insufficient altogether. The feeling which & O. Canal on a tour. Neither of the parties prevailed among them in consideration of had ever seen each other before the time the reduced rates did not assume the mentioned - Monday the 8th instant. - proportion of a strike until yesterday, at Alexandria Gazette. which time the boatmen took a decided stand, and not only refused to load their own 8/8/74, p. 2. Accident on the C. & O. boats but positively forbade the loading of Canal. - A young man named Frank Binn, any other. employed on the boat Maggie B., Capt. J. A. Later. - The Times of Thursday says, Cowden, while going to Cumberland, on The strike among the boatmen still continues Monday last, the boat struck a rock at the at the basin wharf. Up the river, business Mountain Lock, below this town, was has been to some extent resumed. The thrown violently against the bank, between Borden Company has acceded to the the boat and shore, lacerating his back, demand made and resumed work. The breast and limbs, besides fracturing his right boatmen from the Shriver basin wharf held a arm between the elbow and shoulder. Dr. meeting yesterday, which is fully reported Manning, of this place, rendered the elsewhere. The utmost quiet and order has necessary surgical aid. prevailed, the boatmen evincing much good judgment in the management of the strike, 9/12/74, p. 1. Strike of Canal Boatmen. - and as we can see, good feeling exists all The Cumberland Daily Times of Tuesday around. last says:

55 9/19/74, p. 3. Chesapeake and Ohio "I fully appreciate the difficulties in Canal. Annapolis, Sept. 10. - The Board of adjusting a case of this kind, but I am Directors of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal confident that the main cause can be Company met here today. The President removed by a thorough co-operation of the submitted the following report: coal companies and this company. I, "The coal tonnage and revenue of the therefore, respectfully recommend that a Company for the month of August was: committee of this Board be appointed to "Number of tons shipped from confer with the various coal companies and Cumberland, 106,874, which is an increase, to report at an early day. I submit, however, as compared with 1872, of 2,083 tons, and various communications." an increase over 1873 of 58,569 tons, viz: The recommendation of the Coal tonnage, August, 1872 104,771 tons; President to appoint a committee to confer August, 1873, 48,305 tons; August, 1874, with the coal companies was approved, and 106,874 tons. the following resolutions were adopted: "The revenue that has accrued to "Resolved, That a committee of three your treasury from all sources during the be appointed to take into consideration the month was $63,929, which shows an various subjects relative to tolls and other increase, compared with corresponding matters referred to in the report of the period of 1872, of $5,111.32; ditto of 1873 President and various communications from of $35,751.04. the representatives of the coal companies "The usual ordinary and and boatmen. extraordinary expenses for operating the "Resolved further, That the President canal for the last month were $17,867.13, be and he is hereby directed to enforce which shows the net revenue to be strictly all the rules of the company and $46,062.42 afford such protection to boatmen and "Notwithstanding the very favorable wharf-owners as may be deemed necessary, results of the operation of the company for so as will insure the fullest protection to the past month, its tonnage and revenue have every person engaged in navigating the been very seriously diminished by a strike canal." among the boatmen, which occurred on the Hon. Wm. Walsh and Gen. Thos. J. 25th, but for which the tonnage and revenue McKaig appeared before the Board and would have exceeded any previous month in presented several petitions requesting the the history of the canal. From the 1st to the reduction of tolls five cents a ton on coal, 25th the average shipment was 4,925 tons and an entire abolition of the toll now per day; ftom the 26th to the 31st the charged upon descending boats, amounting average shipment per day was only 1,391 to $4.08 on each boat. tons, showing the loss of tonnage, The committee appointed by the attributable to the strike, to be 21,486 tons. President on the subject of the strikes will "The frequent recurrence of these report to the Board on Thursday, the 17th strikes not only reduces the revenues of this inst., in Baltimore, to which date and place company, but I fear, will compel some of the the Board adjourned. coal companies to withdraw their trade from It is stated that the action of the the canal, unless some measures are taken to President and Directors of the Canal prevent in the future these frequent Company looks to the protection of all the interruptions. parties engaged in the trade on the canal by breaking up the middle men, who are

56 understood to be drawing a large portion of Nancy Bower's saloon on the canal, near the profits which properly belong to the Bakersville, and called for a pint of whisky. boatmen. He drank the whole pint, and was in the act of paying for it when he dropped dead. No 10/10/74, p. 2. Drowned. - On Saturday last wonder he dropped dead. a little boy, aged six years, and son of Mr. Jacob Shaw, of Four Locks, Md., was 12/5/74, p. 2. Sunk Boat. - The canal boat, drowned in the canal at Shepherdstown. He Leander Lovell, Capt. W. C. McCardell, was on the canal boat Thos. Hassett with his sunk below the Guard Lock, on this level, father, and on the evening of the accident seven miles above this place, on Saturday followed his father from the cabin to the last. The cause of her sinking was on stable, on his return he fell from the boat account of the level being down. She into the canal, and before he could be fastened upon a rock in the middle of the rescued, drowned. channel bursting a hole in the bottom of the boat. The level had to be drawn off, which 11/21/74., p. 2. Drowned. - Captain Samuel caused a stoppage to navigation for over Wyland, of the canal boat Lillie and Nannie, forty eight hours. - Williamsport Pilot. a resident of Four Locks, in Washington County, Md., fell from his boat at the Log 12/19/74, p. 2. Attack on the C. & O. Wall Level, on the C. & O. Canal, one day Canal. - We learn that while Mr. Thomas last week, and before assistance could reach Turner, of this town, was returning from him drowned. Cramp is supposed to have Georgetown, up the Canal, on Tuesday overtaken the unfortunate man, as he was evening of last week, he was attacked and known to be a good swimmer. beaten by two colored men, in his employ, for the purpose of robbery. It seems that he 11/28/74, p. 2. The Canal. - President hired those two men in Georgetown, and Gorman in his late report to the Board of when having proceeded up the Canal, a short Directors of the C. & O. Canal says: "As distance from Georgetown, he stopped his the canal is now in better repair than for mules to adjust a portion of the gears which years past, considerable reduction can be had become loosened, and while doing so he made in the expenditures during the was struck with a "billy" bu the negroes, and suspension of navigation." beaten on the head severely. The negroes then made their escape. He remained Steamboats. - Three canal steamers passed senseless upon the tow-path for some time, down the Canal on Monday morning of last until a steamer passed by, which was also week, loaded with coal for Georgetown. passing up the Canal, and was picked up and This begins to look as though the day is not brought to the next "Lock," where he far distant when steam will take the place of received proper treatment. The negroes took mules on the C. & O. Canal. from his pocket a book in which Mr. T. kept his papers, as they supposed contained Dropped Dead. - We are informed that on money, but fortunately Mr. T. Had his Saturday morning last, the 21st instant, money in another pocket, which they did not Charles B. Perdy, a carpenter, who has been get. Mr. T. is now here under treatment of for several weeks at work on the farm of Dr. Reynolds. His head and face are General Thos. J. McKaig, between severely cut, but we are glad to learn he is Hagerstown and Sharpsburg, went into recovering.

57 12/26/74, p. 2. At the last meeting of the Directors of the C. & O. Canal a plan for improvement in locks was submitted to the Board by the inventor, Mr. Heath, of Annapolis, also for the construction of outlet locks above Georgetown, by Messrs. H. H. Dodge and W. R. Hutton, engineers, which was approved by the Board, and construction thereof ordered to be commenced immediately.

1/16/75, p. 2. Fire on the C. & O. Canal - Boats Burned. - On Saturday morning last, the 9th inst., about 3 o'clock, the cry of fire The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Survey. was raised through our town, when it was - The survey of the route for the extension of discovered that three boats, the "Adam the Chesapeake and Ohio river [sic. Canal], Sherman" and "Arthur Cropley," belonging which has been in progress under the to Mr. Oliver Sherman, and the "C. W. supervision of the War Department since Harper," belonging to Mr. Lawson W. August last, has just been completed. The Poffenberger, lying in the C. & O. Canal, at engineers have made a preliminary location Bridgeport, opposite this town, were in of the line from Cumberland to the Falls of flames. The Potomac Fire Company of this Youghiogheny. The length of the line is town, and a number of other citizens, were eighty-five miles, and is one hundred miles soon on the spot, and extinguished the to where slack water is expected to begin, at frames, but not until the boats were nearly Connellsville. The summit is passed at an destroyed. It is said that Mr. Sherman's loss elevation of 1,300 feet above the is about one thousand dollars, and the loss to Cumberland, by a tunnel three and three- Mr. Poffenberger about five hundred dollars. quarters miles long. Ten inclined planes are The fire was the result of an incendiary, and provided on the eastern side, and four on the Mr. S., as will be seen by an advertisement western. The estimate made last year is in this issue, offers a reward of $500 for any deemed to hold good - that is $25,000,000 information that will lead to the conviction for a canal seventy feet wide and seven feet of the party or parties who set fire to the deep, with locks one hundred and twenty boats. We also learn that the boat "H. C. feet by twenty feet, capable of passing boats Windship," belonging to Mr. George Dixon, of two hundred tons. lying in the Canal, near the Ore Bank, near Harpers Ferry, was set on fire and burned on The U. S. Fish Commissioner has sent a lot the same morning. The boat "Horace of fish cans to Hancock, Md., in order to Resley," was also set on fire and burned, on have them filled with young bass, which are Monday night last, at Mercersville. to be taken out of the canal when the water [Transcriber's Note: the referenced is drawn off, and shipped to stock streams in advertisement of a $500 reward follows. other parts of the country. The advertisement ran for at least three weeks.] 1/30/75, p. 2. For the first time in a number of years there are no extra hands employed on the Shepherdstown division of the canal. The reason assigned for this is, that Mr.

58 Gorman wants to pay off the bonds against Boating has commenced on the C. & O. the canal, and the reduction of expenses, Canal. will enable him to do so. C. & O. Canal. - The Georgetown steam 1/30/75, p. 3. Boatmen's Union. - This canal boat, the Ludlow Patton, arrived at society, which organized last summer, held a Cumberland on Tuesday. The delay was not meeting on the 4th of January last in this due, however, to the boat's want of speed, as city, at which the following rate of freights we are informed she made a mile in thirteen for the ensuing year was adopted. The minutes. She will be loaded with a cargo of schedule was furnished to the different "purchased" coal. agents of the coal companies yesterday: To Hancock $0.50 Serious Affray in Cumberland, Md. - To Williamsport .70 Robert Mahany, a boatman, went into a To Shepherdstown .90 saloon on Wineow street, Cumberland, on To Antietam .90 Monday, evening, where he got into a To Harpers ferry .95 difficulty with a man called Stony, who was To Knoxville 1.00 in charge of the saloon at the time, and who To Point of Rocks 1.05 endeavored to eject Mahany, when the latter To Georgetown 1.35 resisted, and in the struggle drew a knife and To All points in Washington City 1.40 plunged it into the abdomen of Stony, To 1st and 2nd Bk Yard, Alex. canal 1.37 inflicting a ghastly wound, from which the To Four Mile Run 1.38 bowls protruded, and which was pronounced To Alexandria 1.40 of a dangerous, if not fatal character. These freights are not to be subject Mahany made his escape. to any fees, bonuses for loading, drawbacks or other charges for loading or unloading. 4/24/75, p. 2. The canal boat, "T. J. Baker," The Boatmen's Union has organized itself was stoned by some unknown parties at into a mutual life insurance association for Harpers Ferry one night last week. The the benefit of its own members, it also cause of the attack is that the owner of the contemplated some co-operative features boat had made a contract to boat coal for which are not yet fully developed. We learn twelve dollars and a half per day, an amt. that the Union numbers three hundred and known to be less than a living wage. While twenty four members and controls three we oppose such conduct on the part of the hundred and seventy four boats. - boatmen, yet we don't blame them, as it Cumberland Times. seems the only means left them of protecting their business with parties who seem to be 4/3/75, p. 2. Boats Burned. - We learn that determined to ruin their occupation of a Boat belonging to Mr. Abraham Snyder, of boating for ruinous freights. We can not say Sharpsburg, was burned by an incendiary, we would pity those men, who are boating on the C. & O. Canal. near Grove's for such prices, if their boats were burned Warehouse on Sunday night last. The light instead of stoned, and we consider it only a was plainly seen by some of our citizens. A warning to those parties that if they persist Boat was also burned near Williamsport on in boating for such rates, something more Monday night last. serious will follow. - Williamsport Pilot, 17th.

59 Accident. - The canal boat William H. In the Hagerstown News is an Boyer, Captain James Snyder, of account of some disorderly proceedings at Sharpsburg, with the captain, his wife, a Sharpsburg and vicinity, in which thirty men little child, a colored man and two mules on participated. They represented that Samuel board, were carried over the dam in the McGraw, superintendent of Antietam Potomac, at Cumberland, on Monday last by division, Chesapeake and Ohio canal was the strong wind blowing at the time, and obnoxious to them, and if not removed by strange to say no damage was done to either the company they would remove him the passengers of the boat. themselves. The canal boat "Kate Prather," Capt. Fish. - The receipts of fish at Alexandria Lewis F. Fernsner, loaded with gas coal, continue to be meager. Shad sold on which left Cumberland on Tuesday evening, Wednesday at $15 to $19.50 per hundred, was stoned at the aqueduct, about four miles and herring at $13.50 to $14.50 per below the city, which point she passed about thousand. Mr. David Billmyer, of this town, nine o'clock in the evening. The reports are started for the "fishery," via the C. & O. that about two hundred stones were thrown, Canal, on Saturday last, with his boat, for and considerable damage done to the boat. the purpose of bringing up fish, but if the No reason is known for the act, unless it is weather continues cool the fish will be that the captain has a charge lodged against considerably "salted." him similar to the Baker's captain. - Cumberland News. Contemptible Act. - We learn that some unknown parties, on Wednesday night of 5/1/75, p. 2. Fish. - The boat belonging to last week, cut the towpath bank of the Canal, Mr. David Billmyer returned on Thursday at the narrow high bank, around the rocks, last, by canal, from Alexandria, with one this side of Sharpsburg Landing, and a short thousand shad and twenty thousand herring. distance above this town. The canal On account of the high prices, Mr. Billmyer employees were informed of the fact by a purchased only the above named quantities. passing boatman, in time to prevent a He sold them at $2 per hundred for herring, terrible breach in the canal. and five shad for $1.

5/1/75, p. 2. Stoning Canal Boats. - The 5/29/75, p. 2. Excursions. - It will be seen Baltimore American on Monday took very by the following announcement which we sensible grounds in regard to the reported clip from the Alexandria Gazette that the stoning of a canal boat at Harpers Ferry a cadets of St. John's Academy of that city few days since because the captain was will pay us a visit on Monday next, the 31st charged with carrying freight at "ruinous instant. Cannot we give them a reception? rates." The boat was the Thomas J. Baker, The cadets of St. John's Academy which, we understand, was running by the have secured a house grain boat, the Seneca, day, instead of by the trip. The crew of the Capt. Castle, and Co. A of the battalion, boat was so demoralized that they quit work. under the command of Capt. Frank McHill, Other could not be procured, and the captain will start on Monday, the 31st inst., for of the boat has had to lay up, and await such Shepherdstown, visiting Georgetown, Cabin time as he can attend to his business without John Bridge, Seneca, the Great Falls, the molestation. Point of Rocks, Harpers Ferry and Antietam on the route, and returning on Saturday,

60 June 5th. As the boat is secured against the 6/19/75, p. 3. Murder Near Cement Mill. - weather, in case of rain, and improved Painful rumors are afloat to the effect that a arrangements have been made, this will, murder was committed a few days ago on doubtless, be the most pleasant trip the boys the Canal, near the Cement Mill of Messrs. have had. Bridge & Henderson. It appears that a man named Crone, running a canal boat, had in 6/5/75, p. 2. Visit of the Alexandria his employ a nephew. The young man Cadets. - A Portion of the students of St. declared his intention of leaving his employ. John's Academy, Alexandria, Va., He was told he should not. On attempting to accompanied by the Principal of the School, get away he was caught by Crone, beaten to Professor Coine arrived on the boat Seneca, death, then laid on the path, and the story via C. & O. Canal, opposite this town, on circulated that a mule had kicked him. This Thursday morning, about 10 o'clock. They is the story as it comes to us. We hope it marched into town, commanded by Capt. may not be true, though it is pretty generally Hill headed by a drum corps and colors, believed at the Locks opposite Sir John's numbering 40 muskets. After parading Run. As far as we can learn, no arrest has through our principal streets, they were been made. - Morgan Mercury. invited by Professor McMurran into the Shepherd College grounds where they The Boatmen and the Coal Company. - drilled and went through the manual of Another difficulty has occurred at arms. About 1 o'clock they returned to their Cumberland between the boatmen on the boat, on the Canal, and dined. At 3 o'clock canal and some of the coal companies. The they played a match game of baseball with Cumberland News says: "There was no the Rustics of this town. In the evening they change in the status of affairs on the returned to their quarters on the Canal. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal on Monday. They marched well and drilled with much The Hampshire and Baltimore Company precision, and had quite a soldierly bearing. loaded a few boats, but none of them cleared We hope the boys were pleased with their at the collector's office, now ere any trip. shipments made by the New Central, Blaen The cadets beat our boys, the Avon or George's Creek Companies, all Rustics, 34 to 19. The cadets also beat the three having decided to pay but $.15 freight. Harpers Ferry boys on Wednesday. At a meeting of the Boatmen's Union, held last night, that society resolved not to Steamboats on the Chesapeake and Ohio deviate from the rates made at the opening Canal are no longer a novelty. They bid fair of the season - $1.25 to Georgetown and to entirely supersede mule power. $1.30 to Alexandria."

6/12/75, p. 2. Canal Trade. - The editor of 6/26/75, p. 2. Alexandria Cadets. - The the Lynchburg Virginian says: "Only a few Morning Journal, published at Alexandria, days ago we travelled many miles, - from contains the following paragraph in the Point of Rocks to Cumberland, along the reference to the late visit of the Cadets of the line of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, - St. John's Academy, Alexandria, to this much of the way within sight of the canal, town: and saw evidence of the immense freight Then we started from Harpers Ferry business, in coal, it is now doing." for the terminus of our trip; many regretted the shortness, while perhaps some, at least

61 one, was in his highest glory, being so were no wet clothes. But we were soldiers; anxious to get back to Alexandria (so much nothing could hurt us; so mamas, you must for leaving your heart behind you.) But not be uneasy when your little darlings are when we reached Shepherdstown our spirits out with the Cadets, for there is no danger of revived upon beholding so many lovely catching cold or anything like that, for when faces beaming from Shepherd College, and they are with soldiers they must be soldiers. receiving so kind a reception. After we had Prepare, boys, for another excursion next paraded the town, and had just broken ranks year; we know that you are sorry that it is for a rest, we heard the roll, and could not over so soon, even if you were aroused in imagine what was the matter, but after we the midst of your slumbers by the cruel had learned that the young ladies had officers, to get up and pace the deck and requested us to drill on their grounds, and guard the commissary, where the rats, with you know nobody objected to that. Then we their squeals, kept Morpheus far away; and returned to the boat to feast on bread and if the Doctor did seem lively; that is nothing, ham, and, afterwards, we returned to the for you know boys will be boys, and, as we town and played a match game of ball. were far away, nobody knew anything about There were also match games played at it. So don't be discouraged, but think of the Harpers Ferry and Seneca. The young ladies pleasant time you spent in Shepherdstown, honored us with their presence, and, of and remember you may enjoy it again. course, we played better, and when we became acquainted with them we saw a 6/26/75, p. 3.A Pic-Nic Excursion. - The pleasant time. After the game was over we pupils of Shepherd College, accompanied by escorted the young ladies back to the Profs. McMurran and Smeltzer, and a college, and they kindly showed us through number of ladies and gentlemen from town, the building. We stayed so long that supper went up the Canal to Mercerville on was delayed until late, and we can say that Tuesday last, on a Pic-Nic Excursion. Mr. so many of the boys were smitten that they David Billmyer kindly loaned them his boat, did not care to eat supper, but remained until and about half past six A. M. they started on a guard had to be sent after them. The poor their voyage. The day was cool and guards and the officer of the day had to pleasant, and nothing occurred to mar their remain aboard, so they missed all the fun. pleasure, except a gentle rain late in the We can sympathize with them and wish evening. They returned about 7 P. M., a them a more pleasant time hereafter. After 7 little damped by the rain, but in fine spirits. o'clock some of the young gentlemen of the They desire to return their hearty thanks to college came over to the boat, and kindly Mr. Billmyer and Capt. John Crew for their invited us over to hear the band play in their great kindness and attention. grounds, but we were afraid that many of our boys did not hear any music at all (at 7/17/75, p. 2. Drowned. - A colored driver least from the band,) and we rather think named Al., hailing from Washington, was there were a number of hearts left behind. drowned in the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, We left Shepherdstown about 2 a.m., but did at Big Pool, above the Four Locks, on not reach Alexandria until Sunday morning, Sunday week. He was sitting on the boat owing to many stoppages on the way. We Charles H. Knott, to which he belonged, had very pleasant weather, with the bound up light, and was knocked overboard exception of a few hours of rain, and, even by a collision between that boat and the then, the boat being weather tight, there loaded boat Jacob C. Grove, bound down.

62 Hancock on Wednesday. New gates were 8/7/75, p. 2. Drowned in the Canal. - put in at once but were found to be too Charles Choppert, son of Jacob Choppert, of narrow, and of course they broke and Sharpsburg, fell from a canal boat near prolonged the detention, twenty four hours, Cumberland last Friday and was drowned. at a cost of about $3,000 to the canal company. 8/14/75, p. 2. Drowned in the Canal. - Last Thursday evening a little son of Mr. The canal boat "Mrs. C. E. Chapman," was Greenawalt, keeper of the Canal lock at driven out of Rock Creek, Georgetown, by Sandy Hook, fell off the end of the lock and the storm of Sunday, and forced against the was drowned. His body was recovered the tumbling dam at the mouth of the creek with next morning, the water having been drawn such violence as to tear away a portion of off for that purpose. The child was seven or the dam on the Georgetown side. The boat eight years of age. then drifted out into the river and sunk in thirty feet of water. She was loaded with 8/28/75, p. 2. Accident. - Charles, a son of coal belonging to the Consolidation Coal Mr. Isaac Clymer of this town, aged about Company. 12 years, fell into the Lock, on the C. & O. 9/18/75, p. 2. Wednesday at Weverton the Canal, opposite this town, on Saturday last, body of Clayton Grove, aged about thirty- while walking across a plank, and sustained five years, was found drowned in the canal. a severe injury by having one of his thighs He had been missing for about a week, but caught in the Lock Gates. He is recovering. was supposed to have gone to Virginia. It is thought he was drowned while laboring 9/4/75, p. 2. Boy Drowned. - Robert J. under mental aberration. Cole, a son of Mrs. Mary Jane Cole, of Cumberland, aged ten years, was drowned at 9/25/75, p. 2. A Young man named John the canal locks, Harpers Ferry, at one Stien of Baltimore, was killed at the Seven o'clock Sunday. It is supposed that he Locks, on the C. and O. Canal, on Thursday stepped off the wall of the canal lock while of last week by being jammed between a looking for the mules of his uncle, whom he canal boat and the walls of the lock. had accompanied on board a canal boat to Deceased was on his way to Cumberland on Georgetown. a pleasure trip, and fell from the boat George Colbert, and met with his death as Outrage at Cumberland. - On Friday night above stated. of last week the 27th of August, a horrible outrage was committed by three men, on the 10/9/75, p. 3. Canal Boats and Demurrage. person of Ann Olive, aged 55 years, who - A case of interest to canal boatmen was was a cook for Captain Reed, on board the tried before Jenkin Thomas, Justice of the canal boat C. P. Manning, while lying at Peace, on Tuesday last. Capt. Samuel Cumberland. John Pright and Henry Davis Lynch, of the boat Samuel Swain, sued were arrested and identified by the woman Gilmor Meredith & Co., consignees, for as the guilty parties, and lodged in jail for eight days' services of his boat, mules, &c., trial. The other party made his escape. claiming that, by omission to unload his boat during that period, over and above the usual 9/11/75, p. 2. A Lock gate was knocked out number of days required for discharging, the by a descending boat at the lock above consignees became liable for the use of the

63 boat, &c.; and the Justice gave judgment for 11/20/75, p. 2. Fatal Accident. - We learn $50, or for five days, at $10 per day, that Mrs. Hardy, wife of Mr. Hardy, Lock- deducting three days for the time when the keeper at the Two Locks, this side of basin was impassable by reason of the flood. Harpers ferry, on the C. and O. Canal, met Canal boats not being sea-going with an accident on Friday night of last vessels, have never been able to claim week which resulted in her death on "demurrage," as it is technically called; and Tuesday. It seem that a ball was held at the boats have often been detained here, residence of Mr. Hardy, and during its willfully and capriciously, to the great progress one of the coal oil lamps caught hardship and loss of the boatmen. The latter fire, which Mr. Joseph Colbert attempted to determined to ascertain whether they were to throw out of the door. The lamp struck the be subjected to this treatment any longer; door, scattering the oil over Mrs. H. who and the result is found in the above suit, was so severly burned that she died on which was made a test case. The news of Tuesday following. The arms of Mr. this decision will give much gratification to Colbert were also burned to such an extent the large class who are engaged in that fears were apprehended that amputation transporting coal on the C. & O. Canal. will be necessary to save life. A child of The law governing the case was fully Mrs. hardy was also severely burned. presented and considered, and the decision is in our judgment, a righteous one. - 12/18/75, p. 2. Drowned. - A colored man Georgetown Courier. named Debinger, from this town, took passage on a canal boat, belonging to Mr. 10/30/75, p. 2. A man named Barney McDonald, about two weeks ago, on his McWade was arrested in Cumberland on way to Georgetown, and when about two Sunday, on the charge of being one of three miles below this place, he was seized with a who last week attempted to assassinate spasm and fell overboard and drowned, Paymaster Fawcett, of the Chesapeake and before assistance could be rendered. Ohio canal. McWade was caught by Superintendent Mulvaney, who was with 4/8/76, p. 2. Drowned - A Suicide. Mr. Fawcett at the time and identified him George Newton Keys was found as one of the attacking party. James Reed drowned in Wills Creek yesterday evening was arrested in Washington as accessory, between the inlet lock and the malt store of and committed to await a requisition from Mr. Jacob Brengle by Messrs Porter, Steiner the Governor of Maryland, and warrants and others. The deceased's body was found have been issued for the arrest of two named in the lock of the canal early in the morning, Fearson and Berch of Georgetown, D.C., on and a little later his coat was found hanging the same charge. upon a post near Brengle's store, gave some index of the fate of the whereabouts of his 11/6/75, p. 2. Drowned. - The Alexandria body. Search was at once instituted, and Gazette of Monday last says: - "A canal about two o'clock p.m. the body of the boatman named Mark Castle, from near unfortunate young man was raised to the Shepherdstown, was drowned yesterday surface at the point above named. Justice afternoon a short distance above the town, Blocher, acting coroner, being notified of by accidently falling overboard from the the facts summoned the following jury of canal boat F. Ensminger." inquest, William Hext, foreman; Will. H. Shepherd, Lewis Warner, H. W. Blocher,

64 Wm. Shaffer, G. Couter, A. M. Brandt, sentenced to six years imprisonment in the Theo. Ogle, Jno. Koegel, Jr., J. D. McEvoy, penitentiary. McQuade acted as counsel in J. R. Jordon and L. H. Dowden, who upon his own case; the papers were proved by investigation of the facts returned the Justices A. Gonder and Jones of following verdict: "That the said George N. Cumberland, Md., to have been forgeries, Keys came to his death by drowning, and that the boat for which McQuade obtained that it was his own act, while laboring under pay of the Government, on the ground that mental aberration." The deceased was a she had been destroyed while in government man of about thirty years of age, a saddler employ in 1862, was not destroyed at all, but by occupation, and had been in the employ was running upon the canal in April 1864. of Mr. Hext, of this city, for about five Martin Smith testified against McQuade and years. From letters found in his pockets, he the jury rendered a verdict of guilty without is supposed to have come from leaving the box. He was sentenced as Shepherdstown, where, we learn, he has follows, three years in the penitentiary and a relatives. He is said to have been a man of fine of $1,000 in the pension fraud case, and intelligence and extensive information, and three years in penitentiary in the fraudulent sustained an excellent character for probity boat case. Ryan, McEvoy and McCall, the among those who knew him. In regard to three men implicated in the above fraudulent the hour in which he is supposed to have transaction, had a hearing before committed the rash act, we are informed by Commissioner Rogers in Baltimore, a boatman that about half past eight o'clock Wednesday the 12th inst., and was on Wednesday night, he heard the plunge of committed in default of $5,000 bail for a body about the point where Keys was further hearing. found, and he now thinks that it was the suicidal plunge of the deceased. His 3/11/76, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. - During the relatives in Shepherdstown have been past week water has been let in the C. & O. written to in relation to the sad affair. - Canal, and in a day or two hundreds of boats Cumberland Times, 31st., December, 1875. will be plying that "ditch" which gives employment to thousands of persons. The Mr. Jacob H. Grove, of Sharpsburg, boatmen of our town have been fixing up Md., is spoken of, as the next President of their "traps," getting ready for a lively the C. & O. Canal. business during the coming summer, and we hope their fondest expectations may be 1/22/76, p. 2. Conviction and Sentence of realized. Barney McQuade. - Barney McQuade was tried on the 14th inst. in the District Court of 4/8/76, p. 2. On Saturday the New Central the United States, at Baltimore, on the Coal Company began regular shipments of charge of obtaining money from the coal by canal. The freights to be paid the Government of the United States by means boatmen is $1.10 a ton to Georgetown, of false claims for canal boats destroyed which rate by a regular contract will remain during the war. It is said he and his unchanged through the entire season, accomplices obtained near the amount of whether rates fall below or raise above that three thousand dollars fraudulently for figure. destruction of a canal boat, none of which they had any claim whatever. He was The Cumberland Times says in a very few immediately fined by the court $1,000 and days the shipment of coal by canal will be

65 fully resumed. The ruling freight will be $1.10 to Georgetown and $1.15 to Alexandria.

Frederick Mertens has purchased the residence of Gen. Thomas J. McKaig, in Cumberland, the price being paid $15,000.

The Towsentown Journal says that Hon. Jas. C. Clarke, formerly president of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, and prominent citizen of Baltimore county, is soon to resume a residence in Maryland.

5/13/76, p. 2. Found Guilty. - John Bassee, who was last week tried in Cumberland for an attempt to rob Paymaster Fawcett of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, was found guilty, but his counsel took exceptions, and the case may go to the Court of Appeals.

5/20/76, p. 2. Break in the Canal. - We learn that a serious breach occurred in the C. & O. Canal, on the six mile level, about 7 miles west of this town, on Sunday night last. It is reported that the bank washed out 15 feet below its level, and about half the length of a canal boat. Boating has been 12/16/76. p. 2. Canal Navigation. - suspended in consequence of the breach. Navigation on both the Chesapeake and Ohio and Alexandria canals may now be Large quantities of fish have been caught in regarded as closed for the season. Both of the Potomac and Canal, at this place, during them have a solid cake of ice from shore to the past week. Bushels have been caught by shore. The ice breaker is kept at work on dip nets, seines and hooks, but mostly the upper end of the C. & O. Canal suckers and catfish, and a few salmon and endeavoring to make a passage for the boats bass. which were caught out by the sharp cold snap. It is hoped, however, that all the 7/29/76, p. 2. The business on the Canal has belated boats will get up. Up to noon on improved very much during the past week, Thursday, 5,819 canal boats had left and business looks brighter. Cumberland, for the year, against 3,009 last year. 9/16/76, p. 3. [Transcriber's Note: The following advertisement was placed 1/12/77, p. 2. Canal Promotions. - The indicating a former boatman was in a Board of Directors of the C. & O. Canal different line or work. The ad ran weekly at have reduced the number of division on the least through 12/2/76.] canal. The Cumberland and Hancock divisions have been consolidated and put

66 under the care of Mr. Lewis G. Stanhope. 6/9/77, p. 2. The Visit of the Alexandria Reductions have been made in the pay of Cadets. - The Canal Boat "Seneca," in several officials, with a view to putting charge of Capt. Downs, which left down expenses. Alexandria, on Monday last, with the St. John's Academy Cadets on board, arrived 4/18/77, p. 2. A boatman on the C. & O, here on Wednesday about 1 o'clock P.M. canal, at Cumberland, has christened his The young gentlemen were under the control new craft Wade Hampton. of Prof. Richard L. Carne, Principal of the Boating on the canal is now lively. Academy. The Cadets numbered about fifty A large number of steamers are running, and in all, under the command of Major their shrill whistle is heard. Benedict J. Burgess, commanding the All our boatmen have "pulled out" battalion. The other officers are as follows: for Cumberland, on the "raging canawl." Adjutant, Wm. H. Wunder; Quartermaster Sergeant, T. R. Burke; Commissary of Staff, 4/21/77, p. 2. The Cumberland News says Charles H. Roach; Capt. Samuel B. Loeb; that the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal 1st Lieut. Henry N. Newby; 2nd Lieut. Wm. Company has gained its suit with Corcoran T. Hyde, of company A, and Capt. John S. & Stewart of Washington City. The amount Bradley and Lieut. Dent of company B, with involved was about a half million dollars, Wilford C. Porter, acting Orderly. and related to the order in which preferred The Cadets were also accompanied bonds of the company are payable. The by Messrs. Robert Arnold, late of the State of Maryland is interested in the Virginia Sentinel; Henry J. Nevett, of the decision. Alexandria Gazette; J. Guilford White, Editor of the Youth's Progress; and James B. 5/12/77, p. 2. Alexandria Cadets - Visit to Fitzgerald, all graduates of the Academy. Shepherdstown. - The cadets of St. John's They had quite a disagreeable time upon the Academy, Alexandria, will pay us another Canal, on account of the continued rain from visit via the C. & O. Canal. The Boat the time they left Alexandria until they Seneca, Capt. Castle, has been engaged for a arrived here; and although it had been trip up the Canal to this town. Co. A, St. raininf more or less during their stay here, it John's Cadets, about 40 strong, will leave did not keep them from making their Alexandria for Shepherdstown, on Monday, appearance on our streets. They were quite June 4th, arriving here on Wednesday the agreeable in their appearance, and courteous 6th, and remaining probably until the and polite to all who in any way came in morning of the 8th, and return to Alexandria contact with them. We are sorry that the by the night of Saturday the 9th. Our weather was so disagreeable, as to a great citizens (and especially our girls) will give extent mar their enjoyment; but we noticed the Cadet boys a hearty welcome. that some of them were captured by our young ladies, and they didn't seem to make 6/2/77, p. 2. The Cumberland Alleganian any resistance. and Times states that rates for freight are The Cadets played a match game of now being fearfully cut on the canal, varying baseball in the afternoon of Thursday with a from 70 to 90 cents. Quite a number of select nine of our town, the game resulting boatmen have returned their boats, and gone in the favor of the boys of town, by a score home with stock. of 5 to 1. The Cadets also gave a dress parade and drill in front of Shepherd College

67 in the evening and acquitted themselves very the driver and his team, ending with the soldierly and handsomely. invocation of bad luck on the excursion; had They left early on Friday morning on the boys gotten hold of her when the rains their return trip to Alexandria after having came on, she would have been apt to have won the respect and warm congratulations of met the fate of the Salem witches. Traveling our citizens. rapidly, for a canal boat, the Great Falls of We hope this will not be their last the Potomac were reached just before five visit to our town. o'clock, and clambering over the rocks the We congratulate Prof. Carne upon boys enjoyed to their fill, the sublime scene having in charge so gentlemanly and which there presented itself. The mighty intelligent a class of young men, and we rocks seamed and scared by the still think he is the right man in the right place. mightier floods, the rushing torrents broke into foam and sending high into the still air 6/16/77, p. 2. Return of the Cadets. their clouds of mist, impressed upon their The St. John's Academy Cadets young minds the omnipotence of Him, who, reached the basin a little after nine o'clock alone, can stay those floods. on Saturday night, but much difficulty was "Or bid their roaring cease." experienced in landing, as the awing served Turning from the works of nature to those of as a sail, and the brisk wind prevailing blew art, they also examined the beginning of the the boat down the basin. It was not until ten aqueduct by which water is conveyed to o'clock that the were able to disembark, but Washington, and which workmen were when they did they made the streets lively engaged in cleaning, and soon after night for awhile by their joyful shouts as they fall, they were all, except the guard, locked marched through them, until nearly eleven. in the soft embrace of sleep. They speak of their trip as a very At 4 a. m., the boat was again in enjoyable one, though their pleasure was motion, and after a short stoppage or two, somewhat marred by the almost continued arrived, towards night, at the Point of Rocks, rain, which though did not penetrate the where the cadets were urgently solicited to awning, beat under it a little and confined pass the night, as a storm was coming on, them to the boat when they would have but declining the invitation they reached preferred the open air. They left the basin at Berlin soon after dark, and tied up for the 8:35 on Monday and reached Georgetown at night. 10:45; here the boat stopped half an hour, At daybreak a start was made and and while some went down into the city, a Harpers Ferry was reached at six o'clock. party visited the college, where the Here a short stay was made to enable those principal, meeting with Father Curley, the who wished to visit that quaint old town and venerable director of the observatory, they see Jefferson's Rock, the scene of John were cordially invited to inspect the library, Brown's desperate fight, &c., &c. Dinner museums, &c., an invitation of which they was taken at 12, at Antietam furnace, and at availed themselves as far as time allowed, one, the boat decorated with flags, stopped after a view of the buildings and play opposite Shepherdstown, an effort to get her grounds. The boys were greatly pleased across the river being unsuccessful, owing to with all they saw there. some fault in the river lock. Many of the Shortly after leaving Georgetown an boys visited Shepherdstown that evening old woman, either crazy or drunk, appeared and night, notwithstanding the heavy shower on the tow path and began to curse and beat which occurred at intervals, and the rain

68 continuing all night, it was determined, if it they expressed a wish to go again today if did not cease, to leave for home at 10 a.m., possible. They enjoyed themselves on Thursday. By that time however, it swimming; many of the better swimmers, showed signs of clearing up, and several whilst the boat was in motion, sporting games of baseball were arranged for the around her. Long walks on the shady paths, afternoon; no full one, however, being the shooting of mud turtles and snakes from played, as there was not time before the the bow of the boat, and secret assaults on intended parade. The first nine of the cadet Unsuspicious sleepers, who suddenly found club was beaten five to one; the second was themselves elevated from the decks by their victorious, seven to none. feet, afforded ample fun, and the last a At 4 p.m., having cleaned up their forbidden amusement, gave a chance to guns, which the rain had greatly rusted, the many for going on extra guard duty. cadets marched over to the town, with drums To capt. Castle and his crew and to beating and colors flying, and, after parading Capt. Downs, who took charge at Seneca, the principal street drilled in the grounds of the boys are much indebted for their efforts the Shepherd College, before the young to make them as comfortable as possible, ladies and a crowd of spectators, returning to and for their constant courtesy and kindness. the boat to supper. At night, a very pleasant Much of the pleasure of the trip was due to time was passed with the young ladies, to their untiring exertion to make it pleasant. many of whom introductions were obtained. To Edmund I. Lee, esq., an old Bouquets were in profusion, every cadet had Alexandrian, resident in the neighborhood, one or more. Tattoo was not beaten until the party is under obligation for his eleven o'clock, and before any had risen, the hospitable invitation to visit him, an boat was far down towards Harpers ferry, acceptance of which was prevented by the where a stop was made for breakfast, and to weather. The genial editor of the lay in additional supplies. Dinner was eaten Shepherdstown Register, upon whom many at the big spring below the Point of Rocks, of the older members of the party called, and supper at a shady place above Edward's merits special thanks for his courtesy; as do Ferry, where the stop for the night was also Prof. Joseph McMurran, Principal of made. Shepherd College, Rev. R. C. Holland and At 5 a.m., on Saturday the journey George M. Beltzhoover, esq., of the was resumed and continued steadily till Trustees, for their courtesy and proffered Cabin John Bridge was reached at 3 p.m. kindness, and Mr. Aglionby for the Here a rest of two hours was taken, the enjoyable ride given the Principal and such grand structure being visited and examined, cadets as did not go over to Shepherdstown and a good bath taken, and at 7 p.m., the at night, in his beautiful pleasure boat. The boat passed through the aqueduct at young ladies of Shepherdstown must not, of Georgetown, the drums and shouting of the course, be forgotten, nor the young ladies of boys startling the denizens of that old burg, the first class of Mr. Vernon Institute be. and its neighbor, Roslyn, as old Virginia The beautiful cake they sent on board as the was once more reached. boat left the wharf was eaten on Tuesday Though the rain interfered and proved to be as good as it was pretty, considerably with the success of the trip, it though boys who had been two days on was, on the whole, a very satisfactory one, bread, ham and coffee would have relished it no accidents worthy of the name occuring. even had it been far less nice than it really Many of the boys were so well pleased that was. - Alexandria Gazette.

69 will pass down, but the returning boats will hear 6/23/77, p. 2. Strike of the Canal the cry "halt!" and will obey. Boatmen. - It was stated on the authority of the Cumberland Civilian that many of the The Canal Company's Telegraph Line. boatmen on the Chesapeake and Ohio canal The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal had resolved to "strike" for one dollar per Company are building a telegraph line over ton freightage. It appears that the statement the tow path from Cumberland to is correct, and that a considerable number of Alexandria and thence, on the Western the boatmen now at tidewater have resolved Union company's poles to Annapolis. The to "tie up" their boats at the eight mile level, length of the line will be two hundred miles, in Montgomery County, and to permit no with offices at convenient intervals. The loaded boats downwards to pass the level transaction of commercial business is, we until the shipping companies consent to believe not contemplated at present. The increase rates to one dollar per ton. It is line will supply a much needed facility in believed the strike is now general, there the transaction of canal business. being not more than thirty boats at Cumberland on Sunday, and it is doubted if Saturday, 6/30/77, p. 2. Quite a number of any of these will be loaded. Some few of boats are "tied up" on the C. & O. Canal the boatmen now receive ninety cents per opposite this town. The boatmen are on ton, while most others get but sixty cents, strike for higher wages. and while those who get ninety cents are opposed to a strike they are outnumbered, 7/7/1877, p. 4. The Boatman's Strike. and will be compelled to succumb. It is said The blockade of boats belonging to the shipping companies have anticipated this the striking canal men has put a stop to all strike, and have been pushing their coal to travel on the Chesapeake and Ohio canal. market in order to meet their contracts. The There is a squadron of about forty boats Cumberland Alleganian of Monday says: used for blockading purposes, and so "We believe a majority of the companies effectually do they choke up the canal that are willing to concede ninety cents to the no boats can pass. Saturday the flotilla was boatmen, but it is the fault of the canal men that about thirty-five miles this side of the price ever fell below this point. Had they Cumberland and moving slowly towards kept below until the demands of the trade called that point. There are about two hundred them here there would not have been so many boats in the wake of the blockade waiting to boats here at the opening of the season, with no pass up the canal. The boatmen still hold freights to carry. But each captain was out for $1 per ton freight. They claim that ambitious to get into a "line," and waiting for this his stock eat their heads off, figuratively, they are not intentionally blockading the and eventually he was driven to carry at canal, but are slowly moving along and whatever the shippers named. We do not look disbanding, as many of them have to go for much good to result from the strike. The home to look after the crops. It is companies can probably wait until after harvest; understood that the president of the canal the boatmen will probably suffer a little. As the company will take legal action against the beginning of the season was brisk this strike will strikers if they continue to obstruct travel on probably make the close also brisk, provided the the canal. boatmen work together. Where a large number A special to the Baltimore Sun says: of boats are tied up along the line in close The blockade of the Chesapeake and Ohio proximity the influence they have will doubtless canal assumed such proportions that on compel others to join them. The loaded boats Saturday the sheriff of Washington county,

70 State's attorney and Mr. Lewis Stanhope to Hancock, Md., to break the blockade of started from Hagerstown for Hancock to the canal, reached his destination at 6 A.M. break it up. It is stated that the string of on Sunday. He summoned a posse canal boats extends at interval from comitatus of about a dozen men and Williamsport to within thirty or forty miles proceeded six miles above Hancock, of Cumberland. The advance guard opposite Sir John's run, where the trouble comprise thirty to forty canal boats. These was greatest. They found some seventy five constitute the so called "blockading" or eighty boats strung along the canal and all squadron, and move abreast, preventing any tied up, those in front having been allowed boats from passing. About 200 boats are to swing around cross ways so as to prevent represented to be near the blockading any others passing. squadron. The names of a number of the Many of those stopping there were leaders in the movement have been obtained willing and anxious to go on, but were and forwarded to Mr. Gorman, president of prevented by those in front holding the way. the canal, who has gone to the scene of the The sheriff and his party were surrounded trouble. The scene of the blockade on by the boatmen and a conference was held. Friday and Saturday last was between the 14 He informed them that there was no mile level and dam No. 4, forty miles below intention of using arbitrary measures; that Cumberland. The blockade is to prevent they were at perfect liberty to refuse to run boats working for less than $1 a ton for their boats and tie up, but they could not carrying coal. A letter received at blockade the way and prevent boats from Cumberland from a boatman on Friday night passing and repassing, whose owners were says: "When we left the Point of Rocks there willing to continue to run. After much were upwards of 175 empty boats to move. talking the men finally consented to open They made a bargain not to pass one another the blockade and allow the passage of boats, all the way to Sir John's. As they came to but some of them swore that though they their homes they dropped off till there were would not attempt to stop other boats from 21 boats when they arrived at Sir John's, running, they would not leave their where they will remain until somebody will positions, and would not run until they got give them $1 per ton freights. The front what they demanded, $1 per ton for freight. boats are blamed with the blockade, but it is One of the captains told the sheriff not so. They all say they have got enough of that while he was perfectly willing that the the present freights, and all say stop, except others should get the $1, yet even if they a few steamboats, who want to go on the secured that rate, it would do him no good as Cumberland. he had entered into a written contract for the A passage through the blockade was season to carry coal at 90 cents per ton, thus cleared yesterday by the sheriff of showing how the matter is complicated. Washington county. A few boats went The sheriff and his party remained at through both ways. Some crews were the scene of the blockade until late in the threatened against going back to their boats afternoon, and when they left 12 or 13 boats at less than one dollar. The opinion among had started through and gone on up the coal men is that the blockade is not yet canal. There were also 10 or 12 loaded entirely broken. boats above the lock, and although the blockade was raised it is said they were Hagerstown, July 2, 1877. - Sheriff afraid to come on down the canal as they Mayberry, of Washington County, who went were in danger of being stoned by those in

71 sympathy with the strikers and the strikers Maryland Coal Company for Georgetown at themselves. This can be done with little ninety cents a ton freight. This is ten cents danger of the perpetrator being detected less than demanded by the striking boatmen unless all the places along the canal where it who now blockade the canal at Sir John's runs at the foot of high bluffs were picketed Run. The ten cents difference was the cause with guards day and night. of the burning of the boat. The true secret of the trouble is that there are now too many boats on the canal 8/11/1877, p. 2. The Canal and the Mines. for the freightage. The consequence has Information was received at Gov. been that those who own boats and have not Carroll's headquarters yesterday that some been able to get into any of the regular lines canal boats had left Sir John's Run, and the and thus secure freights from the coal indications were that the blockade on the companies have taken freights at the best canal would be abandoned. The situation price they could obtain, and in some cases now appears to be somewhat similar to that have carried as low as fifty-five cents a ton, on the railroad at one time when the strikers although it did not pay. Of course the gave up interference with trains, but raising of the blockade above Hancock does prevented the hands from going to work by not end the trouble on the canal, and what persuasion and intimidation. the final result will be cannot yet be told. Sheriff Mayberry, of Washington county, with a posse, visited the vicinity of 7/14/77, p. 2. A little son of Capt. John A. Sir John's Run on Monday and demanded Russell, boatman on the Chesapeake and that the way to be opened. The boatmen Ohio canal, was drowned in the Potomac replied that there was no blockade - that the last Friday near Sir John's Run. channel was free to navigation. The Sheriff ordered the boats to move along, and six 8/4/77, p. 2. Burning of a Canal captains were about to start for Cumberland Steamboat by Masked Men. - Cumberland, when one of them requested all the boatmen Md., July 30. - The canal steamboat, "Star present to give their opinion by vote as to No. 3," owned by Welds & Sheridan, of whether he should go, agreeing to abide by Cumberland, was burned last night at twelve the result. o'clock by twenty five masked and armed The boatmen unanimously decided men at Dam No. 6. The steamer arrived at that he should not go, and the boats were Dam No. 6 at 4 P.M. Sunday and tied up. again tied up, the crowd cheering. No vote Before the burning the crew was notified by was taken yesterday at Sir John's Run on the the leader of the klu-klux gang to get their matter of returning to work. A party of bandanas and leave within fifteen minutes. sixteen boatmen went in skiffs from the The steamboat was then set on fire and fourteen mile level to Sir John's Run to vote, burned. The sheriffs of Allegany and carrying a United States flag with the motto Washington Counties, Md., summoned the "One dollar of no freight." A meeting of posse comitatus then of their respective boatmen at Williamsport voted unanimously counties, and are now in the neighborhood for 85 cents and 90 cents, with a reduction of where the destruction occurred. Dam No. of trippage to cover their demands of $1 and 6 is forty-six miles east of Cumberland, on #1.05. The boatmen have agreed to permit the line of the canal. Mr. H. G. Wagner's steamers to pass, as he Three steam canal boats owned by has a contract to supply the New York the same firm had been loaded by the Steamship Company's line running between

72 New York and Washington. For the past federal troops with the State forces in three weeks the line has been using clearing the obstruction. Gen. Barry anthracite coal. Mr. Wagner buys the coal at promptly responded to the call. The Cumberland and transports it in his own Governor then instructed Adjutant General boats. Bond to issue orders to the Seventh The prospects for the resumption of Regiment, M.N.G., Col. James Howard, to work on the canal gives the miners further put his command under marching orders and hopes that their demands will be conceded. report at Hancock, Md., to Col. H. Kyd The Franklin Company have conceded the Douglas, aid-de-camp and acting for the demand, and have set their men to work at Governor in Western Maryland. It is 55 cents. The mines now working are the understood that Gen. Barry at the same time Franklin, 160 men, 55 cents; George's sent orders to Gen. Getty at Cumberland to Creek, 187 men, 55 cents; Potomac, 50 men, cooperate with his force from that point. 55 cents; Hampshire & Baltimore, 50 cents, The regiment will disembark at Sir and the Pickell mine, owned by the John's Run, and march thence three miles to Piedmont Company, 50 men, 55 cents. Hancock, where about two hundred boats Col. H. Kyd Douglas, aide to Gov. are tied up blockading the canal. Hancock is Carroll and representing him at Cumberland, about fifty-seven miles from Cumberland, came to Baltimore yesterday and had a where Gen. Getty's troops are stationed. It conference with the Governor on the is expected the Seventh Maryland will reach situation. He returned to Cumberland in the Hancock from Baltimore at about noon, and afternoon. Gov. Carroll went to Annapolis will be simultaneously joined by the United yesterday morning to attend to some State States force from the West, and operations affairs. His staff continue at the city hall. - will be begun immediately. Baltimore Sun of Wednesday. It is stated that the boatmen have organized themselves into a secret MILITARY OPENING THE CANAL association which they call "The The situation on the Chesapeake and Brotherhood of Boatmen," and have divided Ohio canal, which has been blockaded by the canal into six districts, which they call the boatmen since June 1st under a demand posts. for a dollar a ton for carrying coal, has now In regard to opening of the blockade assumed another phase. The prospect for a of the canal it has been determined first to settlement of the trouble without at least a secure the arrest of the ringleaders, a course show of armed force has passed, and it is which proved successful in the late railroad determined to afford protection to all troubles in the same region. The names of boatmen who desire to navigate the canal some of the ringleaders have been reported and to clear out the obstructionists. The to the State authorities here, and also the posse of Sheriff Mayberry, of Washington names of parties suspected of burning the County, Md., which was sent to Hancock to canal steamer at Dam No. 6 last week, break the blockade, was laughed at and which was attempting to pass the blockade. proved ineffectual. Mr. A. P. Gorman, It is believed that when the ringleaders have president of the canal, had a long interview been secured intimidation will cease and with Gov. Carroll in Baltimore yesterday on boatmen will be found ready to resume the situation. Gov. Carroll communicated navigation at less than one dollar a ton. The with Gen. Barry, commanding at Fort breaking of the canal blockade will have a McHenry, and asked for the cooperation of material effect on the situation in the mines,

73 where the mines are holding out for a $1 per ton, will be permitted to pass to difference of five cents per ton. It is stated Georgetown. that there are about 700 canal boatmen at various points, including about 300 in the On Thursday morning of last week, vicinity of Sir John's Run and Hancock. The the Sheriff of Washington County, Md., ringleaders do not number more than 15 aided by U. S. Troops arrested eight of the men. The total number of canal boats boatmen on the C. & O. Canal charged with ordinarily operating on the line is about 600. arson in burning a boat some two weeks - Balt. Sun of Thursday. since. The 7th Maryland Regiment arrived at Sir John's Run, the place of the arrest, the 8/11/77, p. 2. Accident to a Mule. same day, but no trouble occurred. The A valuable Mule belonging to Mr. canal is now open, but boatmen assert that David Billmyer of this place, met with a they will not run their boats for less than $1 severe accident, one day last week, by per ton. having its tongue cut, bitten or torn out of its mouth. She was in the pasture field at the 8/25/77, p. 2. A mule belonging to Mr. time. Mr. A. D. Crow went to the field for Jacob Bender, a boatman, in Sharpsburg, the purpose of taking her to the barn, and lost a mule a few days ago and discovered found her in the field, with about 5 inches of that its tongue had been cut out probably her tongue lying on the ground at her feet. three weeks ago. Mr. Bender can form no How the accident occurred, no definite idea of the reason for the villainous act. conclusion has been arrived at. The mule is still living, and can with the greatest All the soldiers have been withdrawn difficulty manage to swallow mashed food. from the C. & O. Canal, and boating is beginning brisk. 8/18/77, p. 2. All quiet on the raging Canawl, but it is impossible to force the 9/1/77, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal boatmen to work, if they positively refuse to Construction Bonds. - The United States do so, no matter if the federal troops are as Supreme Court has rendered an opinion in thick around them as grasshoppers in a the case of W. W. Corcoran, appellant, vs. clover field. And we don't blame them. All the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, they want is a barely living price per ton, an appeal from the Supreme Court of the and nothing more. District of Columbia. The issues in the case have been narrowed down to a single We have been informed says the material point, viz.: Whether what is known Cumberland Alleganian, that the boatmen as the coupons of the canal construction have arraigned themselves into a secret bonds are entitled to bear interest - that is association, by the name of the interest upon the interest on said bonds. "Brotherhood of Boatmen," with Post No. 1 This question has been decided negatively located at Cumberland; No. 2 at Sir John's by the Circuit Court of Baltimore city. The Run; No. 3 at Hancock (general Court of Appeals of Maryland has also headquarters); No. 4 at Williamsport; No. 5 decided that under special statute of the at the "Shades of Death" (Sharpsburg); and State authorizing the pledge of the canal No. 6 at "Break Neck" near Harper's Ferry. company of its revenues for the payment of It is said that all boats which the Grand said bonds and interest thereon, simple Commanding Post are satisfied are getting interest only was meant, and that as to the

74 lien on those revenues and tolls, interest on ever before known. Besides the stock has the coupons was not included in the lien. disappeared from the canal and but few The Supreme Court thereupon, thinks the boats have a full complement of mules, and decision of the Maryland courts became the the captains are unable to replace them. We law of the whole case as to the parties think boats will be in demand at ninety cents thereto, and affirms the decision of the court before another week. The water in the canal below. suddenly fell some six inches on Wednesday night on this division. It is thought to have Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. - been drawn off somewhere below for some Business on the canal continues brisk, the purpose not yet ascertained. If we do not clearances yesterday numbering thirty-seven have rain very soon there will not be boats, carrying 4,000 tons of coal. Last sufficient water to feed the canal, and boats week the Consolidation Company advanced will not be able to carry one hundred tons. - the rate of trippage to $25 from $15, the Cumberland Alleganian amount charged when they were shipping coal at 75 cts. per ton, claiming that the 10/6/77, p. 1. Unfortunate Casualty. advance in freight to 90 cents justified a On last Wednesday morning the return to former rates of trippage. Many of canal boat Jacob Snively left this port, the boatmen of the line complain that the having as part of her crew a negro man advance is burdensome, and some say they named Robert Lake. Arriving about ten will not load if the advanced amount is miles down the canal, she came in collision exacted, while others talk of a strike against with the boat Three Brothers, which was tied it. No action has yet been taken, however. up and feeding. The latter boat was manned The boat R. B. Cropley, of the Borden line, by John Kenney, captain; D. O'Neal, mate; which left here on Saturday morning, sunk and a tow boy, whose name we did not in the canal near Oldtown yesterday. - learn. Owing to the collision, a quarrel Cumberland News, August 28. arose between the negro, who was steering the Snively, and O'Neal, in which it is said 9/8/77, p. 2. Status of the Chesapeake and the tow boy took part. Threats of shooting Ohio Canal. - There are now no boats were made on both sides, and as the negro leaving here at the price of seventy cents per Lake was entering the cabin, as if to get a ton. Those who were thrown out [of] the gun, two stones were thrown, one each by line for refusing to carry at that price are O'Neal and the tow boy, and one of which being helped by their fellow boatmen, so far struck Lake on the temple, knocking him as is necessary, though some of them have into the cabin. The boat Snively proceeded freighted at the advanced rates. If the on its way, and when near Oldtown the present demand is continued for boats there negro breathed his last. will soon be a scarcity, and companies will Following this boat was the "Three be glad to get boats at ninety cents. The Brothers" of which Mr. J. Kenney is captain. long continued strike on the canal had On reaching Oldtown Mr. Kenney, more almost ruined many boats which lay for familiarly known as Black Kenney, learning weeks with their sides exposed to a that it was extensively rumored that he had midsummer sun, and even after being thrown the stone, immediately tied up his packed in their seams are almost constantly boat and returned to this city to vindicate kept pumping, and more have left in a himself. In conversation with him he sinking condition in the past week than were informed us that when the murder occurred

75 he was on board his boat; that he did not see someone been there to have fastened it, but the negro; has not the slightest idea who unfortunately such was not the case. After threw the stone; and was greatly surprised to lying there for about 5 or 10 minutes the learn that he was accused. As stated above, current again struck it, and brought it stern he immediately returned to Oldtown. No foremost on, towards the bridge at a terrible legal proceedings have as yet been taken in speed. It struck the bridge as with the crash regard to the case. - Cumberland Times. of thunder and was completely stripped of all its cabins, the water at the time not being 12/1/77, p. 2. THE FRESHET. high enough to let the hull of the boat strike On Sunday night last an event the bridge, or the damage at this time may occurred that will long be remembered by have been worse. The force of the stroke the citizens of this town and community, broke one of the span timbers of the bridge viz., the washing and carrying away of one between the abutment of this side and the span of our bridge, which crosses the first pier, and also breaking some of the Potomac River at this place. As was weatherboarding. It finally was forced anticipated from the constant rain, beginning under the bridge and went on down the here on Thursday morning, and continuing river. until Sunday the river would rise, but no one The name of the boat was the "Chas. was expecting such a high and destructive Wheatly," and belonged to Mr. Loss water as has just been witnessed. Not since Poffenberger, who lives just across the river the year 1852, has such destruction of opposite this place. The boat had been property by a freshet in the Potomac River occupied as a dwelling by a family near occurred. The river commenced rising on Dam No. 4, and it broke loose, the people Saturday and continued all day Saturday and themselves escaping only, all else being Sunday. All day Sunday the cliffs along the carried away with the boat. The river still river were thronged with people watching rising, current was towards the Virginia side the rapid rising of the river, and the rushing at this point, and consequently all the drift down with the water the mountains of came this way, huge timbers and matted debris. drift came rushing along, striking and Houses, fences, cross ties, parts of tearing the bridge as they forced their way bridges, stock, poultry, fodder, hay, straw, under it, but not yet able to force it down. boats and everything that could be thought After dark Sunday night, the river of almost, came floating down the river at was within a foot of being in the bridge, that the rate of thirty or forty miles per hour. is about half past 7 o'clock, the drift was About 2 o'clock P.M., the first canal boat running very rapidly, a portion of the was seen to be coming around the bend Cumberland Valley, or Martinsburg and above the bridge, with the rapidity almost of Potomac Railroad bridge across the Potomac lightning, the most intense anxiety and at Powell's Bend, near Williamsport, came excitement now prevailed, the breaking rushing down, taking with it a portion of the away of the bridge was now anticipated. fence and smoke house of the toll house at The boat continued to come and as it neared the bridge, four canal boats in succession the bridge it was drawn by the current to the came along, the one that came down before Virginia side, it came over along side the the boat that carried the bridge away with it, shore, and stopped a little above what is was loaded and had a fire burning in the familiarly known as the "Flat Rock," and we cooking stove, as could be seen through the believe, could have been caught had cabin window, they all passed under the

76 bridge, tearing it, and they being demolished consider him one of our most respected and as they went. The boat that took the bridge deserving young men. away with it was an empty one, it struck the The canal company's office, stable, bridge at 10 minutes past eight o'clock P.M., corn crib, shedding, lock gates, lumber, &c., knocking and breaking the span of the across the river from this place, were all Virginia side completely off, and sending it swept away. Mr. Levi Porter, who lives in down the river, and strange to say did not the company's house, and who tends the even break a cabin on the boat or in any lock, lost considerable, as did Mr. wise as could be seen injure it. The crash of Poffenberger. the falling of the bridge was heard up town, Mr. Hamilton Davis inform us that and many went running down to see the there were on the bridge at Powell's Bend, great catastrophe. The bridge was insured when it was struck and broke away, about for $5,000 in the Peabody Insurance forty persons, of which number three were Company, at Wheeling, and will fully cover drowned, he did not learn their names. He the damage done. also said that a boatman by the name of INCIDENTS AND CASUALTIES Charles Little was drowned at or near the On Sunday morning between 9 and guard lock, near Dam No. 4. A portion of 10 o'clock A.M., Mr. Geo. McChan, of this the dam has also been swept away. Jack place, whose boat was lying in the lift lock, Delony, the lock keeper at the head of the which locks the boats out of the canal into five-mile level, above town, had his brick the river, (which was loaded with coal &c.,) house and all other buildings entirely swept was raised out of the lock by the rising of away. A young man named Woods is the water, and although tied with five tow- reported to have been drowned. Mr. David lines, could not withstand the rapid current, Billmyer, of this place, had about 300 and the line broke and away went the boat bushels of corn destroyed and damaged. His down the river, on until it struck the bridge canal boat was left high and dry on the berm at Harpers Ferry, and there sunk. As the side of the canal, but we understand has not boat left here, Mr. McChan and James been injured. The river was backed up to Wintermoyer got into a boat and followed Duke & Gatrell's flour mill and is said to be after it with the hope of stopping it by some six inches higher than it was in 1852. Major means. The current took them between here Hagan reports that the Potomac Cement and Harper's Ferry at the rate of a mile in Mills has sustained a loss of about $500. two minutes; they finally landed on the Mr. Douglass Bowers is said to have had left Maryland side, near Harper's Ferry, very upon his low lands about $1,000 worth of much exhausted for their dangerous ride. drift. Mr. Charles Mason, above town, They said as they went down the river they caught quite a quantity. The destruction all noticed several persons up in trees, out in along the river has been terrible. There can the middle of the river, where they had been be no estimate made for some time of the forced to climb for their lives. Mr. McChan immense loss of property. Mr. Jno. Gatrell had just returned from Cumberland with his we understand has lost property to the boat loaded with coal for this place, when amount of several thousand dollars. Mr. the high water caught it in the position John Daily suffered severely, his loss we described. Much sympathy has been have not heard, but suppose it to be expressed for him and voluntary considerable. contributions have been made up for him, of At Harper's Ferry, the waters in considerable amount, by our citizens, who Shenandoah street, we understand, was at a

77 depth of fourteen feet, the Shenandoah river On Wednesday morning a young being two feet higher than the great freshet colored man made his appearance on our of 1870, which did so much damage in that street, claiming to have been on the canal vicinity, although at this time it was not so boat that carried away our bridge, he says rapid, which is accounted for by the the boat broke loose above Dam No. 4, and Potomac being at such height. There was a that he not only went under this bridge, but large amount of property destroyed, but no also went under the bridge at Harper's Ferry, lives lost. and landed about a half mile below that Above and below us as far as we place on the Virginia side. His name is have heard the destruction of property has Andrew William Jackson, and claims that he been immense. We did not receive any mail is a native of Pittsburg, Pa., and that he had from the East between Saturday and been to Georgetown, and was on his way Wednesday. We suppose it was not thought back home, when caught by the flood. His advisable to send it out until it was story is so incredible that it is not generally ascertained whether it was safe to do so. believed, although a boat with a light in did The river has fallen very rapidly and is now go under the bridge, but did not take the very near its regular height. We learn that bridge as he claims, the empty boat which the Bridge Company of this place are came after it is the one which took the making preparations to put a ferry boat in at bridge away. this point until the bridge can be repaired. There has been very extensive We hope it is true as travel across the river damage done by the flood to the Chesapeake will be very much incommoded if something and Ohio Canal along its entire extent from is not done. Georgetown to Cumberland. One half of It is reported that the body of a white Dam No. 4, near Scrabble, is gone. This man has been discovered in the canal boat dam was of solid masonry, and was which drifted ashore on the bottom land of considered invulnerable against any form of Mr. Douglas Bowers, below town, the report the elements. The dam cost nearly has not yet been authenticated. Mr. $500,000. Johnson, who attends the lock about a mile The canal will, it is considered on all above this place, had to leave his house and sides, be useless for the balance of the with his family take to the cliffs, where he season. Seasoned timber and other material made shelter for himself and family with belonging to the canal company valued at fodder; their loss is considerable. Mr. David $250,000 was swept off from along the line Billmyer also had a considerable amount of of the canal. hay destroyed. Mr. James Engle, below The bridge at Powell's Bend was town lost about 200 bushels of corn, and destroyed except two spans on the Maryland also other property. side. Several persons were on the bridge at Mr. Wesley Myers, on the Maryland the time, among others T. J. Nill, agent of side opposite this place, lost a quantity of the railroad there, who was returning from corn and fodder. Mr. William Blackford the Virginia side and barely escaped going also sustained a heavy loss. The Antietam down with the bridge. After the structure Iron Works we learn lost heavily. A number was carried away one man was missed, but of the boatmen of this place have returned his name could not be learned. stating that they had left their boats high and At Sandy Hook Mr. J. J. Moore, a dry on the shore. superintendent of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, who has charge of the company's

78 workshop; &c., there, stated that the a distance of a quarter mile above Harper's company had sustained a loss of over five Ferry, and much of the track destroyed, thousand dollars in lumber washed away. some of the rails being bent and curled up. The company's carpenter shops, &c., at All the lower portion of the town of Sandy Hook are a complete wreck, except Harper's Ferry was inundated, the water one of their buildings, which is fastened being 8 feet deep in Shenandoah Street, the with hawsers to the railroad track. About business thoroughfare of the place, and eight thousand dollars worth of lock gates about two feet above the counters in the which were in the shops at that place were stores. chained together by direction of Mr. Moore, The houses of that part of town were and fastened to the shore, where it is hoped evacuated, but much valuable property has they were saved. been lost and damaged. Several dwellings Through this superintendent's and stores have been completely activity and energy much valuable property demolished. has been saved to the company and many The river washed the floor of the canal boats saved from loss. Mr. Moore also Virginia end of the Baltimore and Ohio stated that the river was by actual Railroad Company's splendid iron bridge at measurement higher than in 1852, and the that place, and was within a foot of it on the highest ever known. Maryland side. At about 11 o'clock this From Sandy Hook to Harper's Ferry morning a canal boat, loaded with 120 tons the Potomac River presented a remarkably of coal, drifted down the Potomac, wild appearance. A surging, roaring torrent threatening the bridge with destruction, but of waters, rivaling in their fury as they tore fortunately the boat being loaded went under over the rocky bed of the river, the rapids at the bridge, having the cabin, &c., torn off of Niagara. it. Nearly one-half of the third span of the Old inhabitants stated that they had bridge from the Maryland end was, never before witnessed a coincident flooding however, broken out and a large hole made of both the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers in the bridge. at their confluence, nor had they ever before A family by the name of Brown was seen the rivers so high. Both rivers were this afternoon rescued from the island in the from 25 to 30 feet above their ordinary level river near there, on which they resided. at this point. The island in the Shenandoah They were taken off in a skiff. known as Herr's Island was completely We well know that the late flood has inundated, and the large flouring mills of excited considerable solicitude as to other Messrs. Childs, McCreight & Co., situated places along the Potomac and Shenandoah thereon, appeared to be in the middle of the rivers. But a few days ago these rivers were river and were about half submerged. The as clear as crystal, murmuring musical island bridge, consisting of three spans of sounds, wearing delicate snowy frills upon fifty, sixty and thirty feet respectively, was their edges, sunbeams falling athwart the washed away. The iron bridge on the beautiful billows, the scenery seemed railroad at Shenandoah City is turned glorified, tempered with the soft light from completely round. The one known as the the heavens, turning the foliage nearby to Blue bridge, a short distance above, is mossy carpets of grandest gold. The turned upside down, and still another one grandeur of this scene far surpassed many further up is split in half. The trestle work we have witnessed before, and the blue on the Winchester railroad is washed out for

79 clouds of heaven were in part the chant or recent high waters. But says he really symphony of these waters. apprehended some terrible catastrophe from No later than Sunday the inhabitants his recent dreams. of our town and community were gathering We have just heard of some of the at the river to witness some of the mighty losses of the flood, and together with what works and wonders of nature. The wild we have seen makes us feel in a remarkable waters of the Potomac dashing with sad humor there upon, and will give some maddening fury against everything within its account of it in our way. It has induced us reach and plunging with thunderous roar to resume our useful labors - or rather down towards the bay. The river was a arrangements, for if writing cost us a torrent, turbid and angry, carrying with them moments labor we would hang up our pen, untold wealth. Property of corporatives, to the detriment of our friends and our property of rich individuals and property of publisher in particular. the poor. We will notice in our writings the The most of the houses along these remarks of some of the persons viewing the rivers are generally very poorly built or waters on Sunday, viz: - a young man asked rather temporarily, and four fifths of them several ladies if they thought that the water inhabited by the poorer class of people, in itself really swelled. Poor question for these inhabitations are surrounded with debate young man. A merchant asked gardens or rather patches of ground, which another party if they thought the water was the high waters often deposit a sediment that insupportably obnoxious to the diabolical enriches them, and enables these people to dimensions of the water's channel. raise quantities of vegetables, but floods like Response - That's it. That's it. A the recent one often carries away their knowing gentleman observed that it had houses and gardens on a sort of a been twenty five years since we had such a horticultural exploit, and enriches some high water, and he knew it would be twenty other persons along the river, thus adding to five more before another similar flood. their wealth houses, patches, gardens, &c. Then we all laughed ha! ha! Therefore it is scarcely surprising Our friends all laughed boo hoo! that these people do not uniformly exhibit The darkeys laughed ya ya! tendencies to industry, in fact they were Your property will not do. born tired, in riding from here to We will remark for the benefit of Washington we only saw one person doing that gentleman, that the age of prophecy is anything, and he was falling off a house, past, and no reasonable man should now tableau of energy. venture to foretell aught but what he is Never in the memory of the oldest determined to bring about himself. He may inhabitants has there been known a more then, if it pleases him, monopolize and beautiful, pleasant, open, mild a fall prediction and be honored by himself and with the exception of an excess of rain, nor perhaps some unfortunates in his own native higher water in the Potomac River. This is place. the universal remark among the greater Andrew Jackson Williams, of the portion of our oldest citizens, one of whom sable combination, had a free ride down the we consider a walking Almanac, and beat Potomac on the canal boat which carried Old Probabilities all hollow. Although we away the span of our bridge. He, with his have been informed by the host of the Entler old craft, landed beyond Harper's Ferry, Hotel, that Old Prob. did not anticipate the

80 upon the canal. He says he prayed without 12/15/77, p. 4. - The frame dwelling house ceasing. of Mr. Jacob Ambrose, which was washed This we know was another sad away from Sir John's Run, with all its visitation of Providence to the people of furniture, during the late flood, has been Harper's Ferry. Indeed we are in sympathy found. Mr. Ambrose had despaired of it with the mass of them, and especially in recovery, when to his surprise he learned love with a few of them, as "Quirk" well that the house and contents had lodged on knows. We understand that they suffered by the land of Mr. Eli Fleming, at Little the high water. A few days before the flood Georgetown, twenty miles below. Mr. we noticed our friend, Mr. McGraw Fleming, desirous of learning the name of depositing a boat load of coal in his yard the owner, entered the house and proceeded facing the Shenandoah River. We are to search for papers, books or anything that satisfied he sustained considerable loss not might indicate ownership. Upon opening a only in coal, but stabling, provender, &c. bureau drawer he discovered a pocketbook Mr. Thomas Kirwan also suffered from the containing the sum of $500 and two freshet. We will not forget to notice the watches, gold and silver. - Fortunately for motherly hostess of "The Valley House," Mr. Ambrose this property fell in the hands and her sympathetic assistant, who were of an honest man. Mr. Ambrose was at once inconvenienced by the high waters, but informed of the whereabouts of his property, thanks to fate they are again on old terra and he, accompanied by a friend, started for firma. Little Georgetown, and proving his identity The water was in a portion of Mr. had his property returned to him. The most Green's Hotel, Mr. McGraw's store and of Mr. Ambrose's furniture was saved. dwelling, Gilbert's and Cavalier's drug stores, Mrs. Crep's boarding house, Mrs. 1/5/78, p. 2. Death of a Rioter. Decalone's grocery store, Myers' clothing At the recent disturbance at Harpers store, and very many other dwelling houses. Ferry, Thomas Sammons, of Cumberland, We understand that Mr. Geo. W. Green, of Md., a canal boatman and one of the the Mountain View Hotel, contemplates disturbers of the peace, was injured by being building a large and commodious Hotel shot by an officer and struck in the head by a upon the Loudoun side of the Shenandoah stone thrown by a colored man. Sammons River, to be used as summer resort. We was taken to Cumberland, where he died on admire his enterprise. REPORTER. Sunday last, erysipelas having attacked him in both the head and arm. 12/8/1877, p. 4. Found. The body of Mr. Chas. Little, who The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. was drowned on Sunday of last week, in the A business gentleman of this city has river above this place, was found on just returned from below, where he met Mr. Saturday last about four miles above this Gorman and the canal officers at Harpers town, on the Maryland side, in Cox's Ferry, who had just arrived there from a bottom, where he had been washed ashore. personal inspection of the canal from His remains were brought to Sharpsburg, Georgetown to Harpers Ferry, driving all the Md., placed in a coffin, and sent to Hancock way on the towpath. They found the work for interment. of repair to have been well done, and the canal may be said to be almost in navigable order from Point of Rocks to Georgetown.

81 New stone of immense size, dressed at Woodstock and transported to Sandy Hook 2/23/78, p. 2. C. & O. Canal. on the railroad, will be conveyed thence to The bill for the relief of the C. & O. the several locks along the line where they Canal, authorizing it to issue bonds to repair will be required. A large amount of lumber damages and to own and run its own boats, has also been shipped to Sandy Hook, where that passed the Maryland Senate Thursday, preparations are making for replacing canal was taken up to the House of Delegates, and bridges and rebuilding of scows destroyed passed to its third reading, all the by the flood. The officers were well pleased amendments offered being voted down. The with the progress of work, and assert that the Canal Company are pressing forward the canal will be in good condition for the repairs to the canal made necessary by the shipment of coal at the usual time of freshet of last December, and expect to have opening in the spring. The work on the them completed prior to the opening of the Cumberland division is progressing rapidly, spring trade. In order to guard against future and the water is on the levels from here to mishaps, the engineer has removed one of Oldtown. The repair hands are as far down the seven locks and raised the tow path six a mile below Oldtown, and but little feet higher than formerly, so as to prevent an additional work will be required between overflow in case of freshet. Cumberland and that point. - Cumberland Times, Dec. 31. 3/2/78, p. 2. The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal to be converted into a Monopoly. The canal company has 600 men employed It has been suggested that the in repairing the canal. legislature of Maryland shall declare the C. & O. Canal a common carrier, thereby 1/12/78, p. 2. - The tax payers of Maryland changing it from a common highway, which will have to come down with about it is, and ought so to remain, for such was its $150,000 to aid in the repairs of the canal. original design; individual enterprise will always stimulate competition, which is the 1/26/78, p. 1. - A special dispatch from best regulator of trade and commerce. Annapolis to the Baltimore American says To make the canal a common carrier that the Directors of the Chesapeake and is an entire perversion of the design of its Ohio Canal Company held an important projectors, and will in all probability result meeting this afternoon, at which it was in detriment to public interest, because it decided to issue bonds to the amount of half paves the way to combination and a a million dollars in order to repair the monopoly. damage to the canal from the flood. Virginia aided the canal in her terrible struggle for completion to the coal 2/2/78, p. 2. The Cumberland News says fields; we as a part of her directly interested, that the work of repairing the damage by the put in our most emphatic protest against any flood of last November to the Chesapeake such a scheme. and Ohio Canal is going briskly forward. We hope the people along the line of The worst break - that just east of the the canal from Georgetown to the mountain, railroad bridge at Harper's Ferry - is being will see to it that their highway is not filched repaired in a substantial manner, and the from them. banks will doubtless resist the action of floods for some time to come.

82 Mr. L. G. Stanhope, superintendent, with the continuance of the present good says that since the water has subsided, he weather the canal will be placed in has ascertained that about one hundred feet navigable order by the first or tenth of April. of cribbing, out of three hundred which had The repairs are prosecuted in four divisions, been put in place at the breach in Dam No. and the work has given employment to 4, has been washed away. upwards of 1300 men and 250 carts. Of the $500,000 in bonds authorized by the Quite a number of hands with carts Maryland Legislature it will be necessary to and wheelbarrows were engaged in cleaning negotiate not much more than $200,000 for out the C. & O. Canal opposite this town, the repairs. Over $60,000 have been already during the past week. It is said that the placed at par in New York and among the Canal will be ready for navigation about the coal companies. It is claimed the canal has middle of March. never before been so promptly repaired after extensive damage in so short a while; and it 3/16/78, p. 3. - The water in the Georgetown is thought the work when finished, will be in level of the C. & O. Canal has been drawn better condition than before the freshet. off and will likely be off for a week for the Upwards of a hundred breaks have had to be purpose of repairing a leak at the first lock repaired. Through these breaks the current and giving the canal a general cleaning out. swept away much deposit, the accumulation The compromise effected between the of years, and where deposits were left by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company and flood everything has been cleaned out by the State of Maryland will, it is predicted, labor, so that along the damaged line the have a very beneficial effect upon the coal canal will be free of alluvium. trade in Georgetown. By the provisions of the compromise the railroad company are 3/23/78, p. 2. - The Walsh & McKaig wharf, prohibited from discriminating against the at Cumberland, is said to have been sold to canal in their freights from the coal mines on the C. & O. canal company last week, and the Pittsburg road, and the main stem of the will be taken possession of in a few days. Baltimore and Ohio road from Piedmont. Heretofore the rates from Piedmont to 4/6/78, p. 2. The boatmen who left the Cumberland were nearly as great as from Chesapeake and Ohio Canal with their Piedmont to Baltimore, and heretofore none steamers to ply the waters of the James of that coal came by the C. & O. Canal in River and Kanawha, will return to this line consequence of the freight being too great. on the opening of the coal carrying trade. A few days ago President Gorman, of the C. Their names are Michael Quigley, Joseph & O. Canal Company, prosecuted a bill in Wagner and Thomas Ganley. The former the Maryland Legislature looking to the gentlemen, have each two boats, and the last construction of the Maryland canal, by using named has one. convict labor, connecting with the C. & O. Canal so as to have a direct line from 4/20/78, p. 3. THE C. & O. CANAL. Cumberland through Georgetown to A Georgetown correspondent of the Baltimore. Baltimore Sun says: - "The Chesapeake and Owing to the exceedingly mild Ohio Canal was opened today from winter there has been no material Cumberland to Georgetown for the first time interruption to the repairs since December since November 25th last, when the long-to- first when they were begun. It is hoped that be remembered freshet occurred. The

83 engineers of the canal company, who have harbor master; Frank McMahon, boss examined the entire length of the canal, dumper; John Renehan, watchman. The express the opinion that the canal is in a wages of watchmen are $1.50 per day, and better condition now than it has been for of drivers and stablemen $1.25. years. While the freshet did great damage The canal is now in thorough repair and threw all the boatmen out of and on the Cumberland division, and as far employment until now, it also furnished down as Dam No. 4, the canal is full of work for one thousand men during the entire water and in navigable order, while below winter and up to this time in repairing it. Dan No. 4 on to Harper's Ferry the water is The first boats from this end left yesterday, being let in. From Harper's Ferry to and today there was a great rush to get away Georgetown the canal is in perfect order. by the boatmen, who have been housed up Boats may leave Cumberland now freighted ever since the freshet. The most of the boats with coal, and find no impediment thence to that left today were empty, though four or tide-water. five were loaded with fertilizers for farmers It is a matter of congratulations that, in Maryland. Boats have been arriving for with all the difficulties in the way, the canal two or three days, the arrivals so far being company have been able to place the twelve with coal and five with grain. These thoroughfare in complete order, and ready have laid near Seneca since the freshet, on for shipping before the operators are ready the line of the canal. There are a number of to send their coal. All loaded boats on the arrivals expected tomorrow. Great canal have gone down. preparations have been made along the The tolls on the canal will be 40 entire line of the canal for a resumption of cents per ton of 2,240 lbs., including business. The general forward movement warfage and terminal facilities. The will not take place before Monday, the 15th collector's office and the basin wharf office instant, although there are a large number of have been consolidated, and waybills will be boats moving today at different points. issued at the wharf. Asa Williams, Esq., The Cumberland Alleganian says: - collector, will be in charge, with Mr. David "The canal wharf repairs have been pushed Lynn as assistant and clerk. Mr. C. D. forward to completion and on Monday will Warfield will be guager. C. N. Hammond, be ready for dump coal, when navigation Esq., is superintendent of this division. - will commence for the season. The Cumberland Alleganian. following rates of tolls have been Canal Telephone. established: from Cumberland to The Washington Republican of Georgetown, 40 cents per ton of 2,240 yesterday says: "The Chesapeake and Ohio pounds; to Point of Rocks, 32 cents; to Canal Company propose placing a telephone Berlin, 30 cents; to Harper's Ferry, 29 cents; on one of the police telegraph instruments in to Shepherdstown, 27 cents; to the collector's office at this end of the line, Williamsport, 22 cents; to Four Locks, 21 to connect with the first lock, and to this end cents; to Hancock, 20 cents. To all other have erected poles along the line to points 2 mills per ton per mile, and 4 cents Cumberland. If the experiment works well warfage. For trimming boats the charge will to the first lock, the telegraph will be be $1.30. In addition to appointments extended to Cumberland. previously made and announced, the following additional ones have been made: Enoch Neal, gauger of boats; W. R. Barnard,

84 4/27/78, p. 3. Safely Caged. Bond escaped by a lucky mistake. A man We learn from the Cumberland was pointed out to the officers as Bond, and Alleganian, that on Tuesday last, Sheriff they arrested an innocent party, who was Manly, of that place, arrested Henry Barger, afterward released. Bond was subsequently a boatman residing at Weverton, in this arrested however, and lodged in jail. county, on a boat lying in the basin at Last Sunday next, an attempt at the Cumberland, at the instance of Sheriff arrest of Barger was made by the Sheriff of Reichard, of this county. Frederick county, who had a warrant for him The facts that led to the arrest are as on another charge, and some eight or ten follows: Frank Wood, Charles Bond and shots were fired, but no damage was done, Henry Barger, are three boatmen residing at Barger escaping again. Four or five days Weverton, who bear the reputation of unruly ago Sheriff Reichard learned that Barger characters in that neighborhood. One night was in Cumberland, and telegraphed to last winter, they stoned the house of John Sheriff Manley, of Allegany county, leading Garver, who keeps a saloon at Weverton. to the arrest as above noted. Garver, his wife and daughter were in the The prisoner was brought to this house at the time. After the stoning had place on Thursday or Friday last by Sheriff been kept up for some time, Barger Reichard, and is now in jail, where he will approached the house, and pushing his likely remain until his trial at the next May revolver through the window pane, fired term of Court. - Hagerstown Guard. some four or five shots into the room where the Garver family were siting - happily 5/4/78, p. 2. The lumber to be used in doing no damage. constructing the span of the bridge across At the last February term of our the Potomac at this place has arrived at Court the Grand Jury found an indictment Bridgeport, opposite this town. It was against them, but they not only eluded arrest furnished by Mr. Fred Mertens, of for some time, but kept on stoning other Cumberland, and was shipped from that houses in the neighborhood. Barger found place via the C. & O. Canal. We learn that help in eluding the officers from the fact that the contractors, Messrs. Poffenberger and he resided about on the line between Snyder, of Washington County, Md., will Washington and Frederick counties, and begin work immediately. It will be upon the least signal of danger was able to remembered that the span at the Virginia step quietly over the line and baffle his side of the bridge was carried away by the pursuers. freshet last fall. Sheriff Reichard was notified a month or so ago, that Bond or Wood would The principal coal companies who be attending church at Weverton on a certain are shipping have reduced the rates of Sunday evening. He accordingly dispatched tonnage paid their boatmen from 90 and 95 several deputies to the spot, and while the to 85 and 90 cents to Georgetown and services were in progress, they made a Alexandria, respectively. descent. The consternation may be imagined. The boat of Mr. David Billmyer The congregation was thrown into the arrived from Georgetown on Wednesday wildest confusion and uproar, women last with a large supply of herring, which screaming and children crying. Wood was were sold at $1.30 per hundred. gobbled where he sat in the sanctuary, but

85 attempting to "snub" the boat, got caught 7/13/78, p. 2. Sad Case of Drowning. between the rope and the post, and had his Johnny Dunnegan, son of Mr. legs almost severed from his body, and Thomas Dunnegan, of Sidling Hill, although within a quarter mile of a Washington Co., Md., was drowned on the physician, the brutes in charge of the boat C. & O. Canal at Bridgeport, Md. opposite put the poor sufferer on the boat and this town, on Thursday morning last. He proceeded on their trip down the canal. had come up out of the cabin of the boat upon which he was on, and it is supposed 8/17/78, p. 2. Our town was almost deserted that as he attempted to go around the cabin on Thursday last. The citizens went to he stumbled and fell into the canal. He Byrne's Island, near Harper's Ferry, to attend made no outcry whatever and the splashing the Pic Nic. A great many took passage on in the water is what attracted the attention of Mr. Billmyer's boat, on C. & O. Canal, and the crew, who went to see what was the many others by private conveyance. The cause. He never appeared above the water balance left in town went fishing. after falling. He was a bright boy, about 13 years of age. The boat "R. M. Sprigg," 9/5/78, p. 2. The boats on the C. & O. Canal which he was upon, belonged to his father. have been detained during the week, on His body was recovered and placed on a account of the river being too low to feed passing steamer, and sent up the canal to his the levels. father's residence. This is the second son Mr. Dunnegan has lost by drowning. 9/14/78, p. 2. Billmyer's boat arrived from Georgetown the first of the week, with a 7/27/78, p. 2. The canal boat "Industry," load of sweet potatoes. arrived at Bridgeport, Md., opposite this place on Monday last loaded with cross-ties 10/5/78, p. 2. During the labor troubles in for the Shenandoah V. R. R., to be delivered July of last year the canal steamer, Star No. to this place, but not being able to cross the 3 was burned, on the Chesapeake and Ohio river with the boat, were forwarded to Canal, at Dam No. 6, by men supposed to be Weverton, where they will be transported by strikers. The owners of the boat, Messrs. the B. & O. R. E. to Duffields Depot. Weld & Sheridan, brought suit against Washington county, Md., in which the The C. & O. Canal Co., under the burning occurred, and against Aetna supervision of Mr. Samuel McGraw, have Insurance Company for risk held by them put in a new gate in the lift lock opposite upon the boat. The whole amount sued for this place and cleaned out the lock, and are was some $4,000. The suit against now busy in clearing the mud away from Washington County, which was agreed to be around the entrance of the lock, and by the a test case for both, was removed to Howard first of next week it will be in condition so County, but the suit has been compromised, that boats can come through to this side of counsel for the county agreeing to pay the river. $1,300 thus setting both cases on a basis of $2,000. 8/10/78, p. 2. Accident. - On Saturday morning last, about 4 o'clock, a painful 10/12/78, p. 2. Narrow Escape. accident occurred on the C. & O. Canal, The Hagerstown News says Mr. opposite this place. A tow-boy, while Lewis G. Stanhope, Superintendent of this

86 division of the C. & O. Canal, made a his death by breaking his neck accidently, no narrow escape from death a few days since. marks of violence being found upon his It seems that he was driving a horse which person. The deceased was about sixty years he had recently purchased and when near the of age, had one hand off, slight whiskers on company boat at Jackson's the horse got the chin, and wore a glazed cap when found. frightened and jumped into the canal carrying the buggy and Mr. Stanhope with 11/30/78, p. 2. Chesapeake and Ohio him. Mr. S lost his hat but swam after it and Canal. then swam out. The horse finally got out A correspondent of the Baltimore and was not injured in any way. Sun, who was on the tour of inspection of this great work, last week, in giving a 11/9/78, p. 2. Mr. David Billmyer received description of the trip, among other things, again this week at his warehouse in this says, the canal company has on its rolls a place about 5,000 bushels of wheat, and has total of 443 employees, of whom 75 are within the past month shipped over 20,000 lock-keepers, the rest averaging about two to bushels to Georgetown, by C. & O. Canal. the mile, to keep up repairs, &c. Mr. Lewis G. Stanhope, who accompanied the party A Shocking Death. - Monday morning the from Cumberland to his home in canal boat "J. B. Thomas," Capt. Joseph Williamsport, is the superintendent of one Potter, was entering the lock at the end of hundred miles of the work, his assistant the nine-mile level, known as "Branagan's being Mr. C. V. Hammond. Mr. Stanhope is Lock," which is nine miles from this city, a practical man, habituated to the command when it became the duty of a driver named of other men, thoroughly conversant with John Bridgeon to get on the boat for a bow the needs of the work, prompt in the remedy line to snub the boat. Bridgeon jumped on of disasters and fruitful in expedients. He the boat, and as he did so the boat, which was formerly a contractor, and has spent had been "cramped," gave a start, and the much of the active part of his career on this unfortunate man fell between the lock walls highway. And the canal is a great highway and the boat, his feet failing to retain their running side by side with the Potomac River holds on the boat on account of the frost and the great iron highway of the Baltimore upon the latter, which caused them to slip. and Ohio railroad, throughout the wild and As the poor fellow dropped in the narrow picturesque valley which the stream has space between the boat and the wall the tram made from its sources in the mountains. gave a start, and one terrible cry announced Even at this date, as the season draws to a the fate of the unfortunate man. His body close, the canal is an artery of traffic full of was fearfully crushed, and the head perfectly business activity. Every ten minutes of the flattened by the terrible pressure that had day boats pass and re-pass each other, going been upon it. Bridgeon was 43 years of age, to tidewater or returning to the mountains and resided near the Point of Rocks. - for burdens of coal, lumber, &c. Cumberland (Md.) Alleganian, Nov. 5. "Preliminary steps have been taken in Western Maryland and Virginia for the 11/16/78, p. 2. The body of an unknown construction of the Bloomington and Fairfax man was found on Monday morning at Dam railroad, which is designed to be another No. 4, near the stop-lock of the Chesapeake feeder to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. & Ohio Canal. An inquest was held and a The incorporators of this enterprise are verdict returned that the deceased came to Messrs. Lloyd Lowndes, Jr., A. P. Gorman,

87 M. Bannon, Patrick Hamill, John Humbird of the lock and his daughter, Miss Laura, and W. T. Jameson. This road will be about had gone out before day to call the assistant sixty miles long, of broad gauge, beginning lock-tender to breakfast. She ventured too at Bloomington, in Garrett County, Md., and near the edge and it is supposed slipped on extending to the West Virginia State line at the frosted curbing and fell in head- the Fairfax boundary stone. The line will foremost. The lock having been filled at the follow the course of the North Branch of the time, she was soon beneath the water; and Potomac. Coal, underlying lands owned by struggling and attempting to cry for help Judge Hamill and others in and about while under the water, was quickly strangled Bloomington, is among the enterprises and never rose, but sunk to the bottom, which it is proposed to develop in this where her body was found and recovered by connection. - Hagerstown Herald. means of a lock rake an hour after. Miss Laura was a bright, cheerful young lady, and 12/7/78, p. 2. We notice the C. & O. Canal an earnest and zealous member of the Company have placed a watch house along Episcopal Church. Her sad death has cast a the canal at Bridgeport, opposite this town. gloom over the community, where she was a great favorite. - Hagerstown Mail. 12/14/78, p. 2. The Potomac has been on the rise and the cribbing at Dam No. 4 Fingers Amputated. - A young man named washed out on Wednesday. Geo. Decker, an employee of the C. & O. Canal Co., met with an accident on Unfortunate. - The Cumberland Times Thursday of last week, which necessitated says: "Mr. David Hoadley, captain of the the amputation of the middle and ring canal boat Laura B. Agnew, was in the city fingers of his left hand. Dr. W. P. Manning, yesterday, and gives a sad account of his last of this town, performed the operation. trip to Georgetown and his attempt to get here. He had a team of five mules when he 1/23/91, p. 3. Chief Engineer Whitcomb has started from this city. He now only has two. been paying off the canal workmen this One of the mules hung himself with the week. It is stated that as soon as the halter at the trough, another died from the engineers have gotten their data in shape a effects of internal injuries received while considerable part of the work of repair will being driven upon the long fall-board, while be let out by contract, although the trustees a third died from disease. Mr. Hoadley with will in addition work a large number of his remaining mules succeeded in towing the hands. boat as far as Hancock, where he tied up and came to Cumberland by rail to settle up his 2/6/91, p. 3. Important Purchase. business. We are rejoiced to learn that the purchase of Bridgeport was consummated A Young Lady Drowned in the Canal. on Thursday last, 29th ult., at the price of A friend writes us from Hancock, $5,000, for a syndicate of Shepherdstowners Dec. 4, that a very interesting young lady including several of our leading business aged about 18 years, daughter of Mr. men. Theophilus Barnett, was drowned that The property consists of about ten or morning in the lower lock of the canal just twelve acres of land, with several dwellings below town and near the residence of Mr. and sundry other improvements thereon, William Bowles. Mr. Barnett is the keeper

88 situated in Washington county, Md., just rights and privileges of the Chesapeake and across the river from Shepherdstown. Ohio Canal within the District of Columbia. The tract has considerable front on The committee remained in executive the C. & O. Canal, and laps both the railroad session for over an hour, and when they bridge and the new iron wagon bridge - the finally adjourned till Tuesday, matters were public road from the latter passing through pretty much in the same shape as before the this land. hearing. Before the destruction of the canal On Tuesday the committee again this was recognized as a good shipping point discussed the subject; the final result being for grain and other products, as well as that the two propositions were separated. receiving depot for bituminous coal, and if The Washington and Cumberland the canal is restored, which is now expected amendment was stricken out, and the by 1st of May, this property has promise of Norfolk & Western amendment was retained not only renewing but greatly surpassing its with a favorable recommendation. former value and importance. Hence it is generally regarded as a good investment, 2/27/91, p. 3. A Complete Canal Victory. and in the light of the prospective The Court of Appeal of Maryland development in this community a strategic has unanimously affirmed the decree of move for the future of our town, and we are Judge Alvey in all of the Chesapeake & glad to know its interests are in a keeping Ohio Canal cases. This places the canal in active and vigilant enough to secure such the hands of the trustees of the bondholders positions. of 1884, and there is now no reason why the It is a good step in support of our work of restoration shall not be speedily boom, and let all be ready and willing to completed. Mr. H. H. Keedy, one of the keep up the forward march as the calls and trustees of the canal, says of the decision: opportunities occur. "This virtually means the restoration of the canal, as the enemies of the work can carry 2/20/91, p. 3. While horse-racing along the the case to no higher court. The work upon canal opposite Paw Paw the other day Albert the canal, which has been temporarily Mocks ran into a telephone pole and suspended, pending the decision of the court received fatal injuries. of appeals, will at once be resumed and will be pushed to an early completion. We The Canal Again. confidently expect to have boats running on The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was the canal in a few months. the subject of a long and interesting We understand that a few weeks discussion Saturday before the House work will make the canal navigable from committee on the District of Columbia. The Cumberland to Williamsport. Then the only actual proposition before the committee was important damage between Williamsport the bill authorizing the Norfolk and Western and Shepherdstown is at Dam No. 4, where Railroad Company, of Virginia, to extend its the work of repair is already almost lines into the District of Columbia. Coupled completed. It is not within the with this proposition is an amendment to improbabilities that the canal shall be grant the Washington and Cumberland opened up from Cumberland to Railroad Company similar privileges. It Shepherdstown by the 15th of April, and was upon the amendment that the discussion coal furnished to the industries here as arose, as it involves the purchase of the formerly.

89 The citizens of Sharpsburg will hold repairing the canal were let to Messrs. Hoge a jubilee meeting tonight and the & Co. on sections 11 and 12, at Williamsporters Saturday night to celebrate Georgetown; and to Jones & Thorne for the victory for the canal. work at Harpers ferry, section 9; and to the same firm upon sections 3 and 4, between 3/13/91, p. 3. Chief Engineer Whitcomb, of Williamsport and Cumberland; Kinsley & the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, was in Dennis were given the work on sections 6, 7 Shepherdstown on Wednesday. He visited and 8, from Williamsport towards Harpers Dam No. 4, where work is going on as well Ferry. The trustees have also made a as the weather will allow. contract for the purchase of two steam dredges from the Marion Shovel Company, A safe belonging to Mr. Sylvester of Marion, O. The contracts call for the Summers of Lock 53, carried away with his completion of the canal between store-room by the great flood of 1889, was Cumberland and Williamsport by May 1st, found last week in the bed of the canal near and from Williamsport to Georgetown by Hancock. It contained a few papers of not July 1st. All the work will be done under much importance. the supervision of Chief Engineer Whitcomb. The estimated cost of the repairs The three canal receivers, Messrs. under the bids is $250,000. The trustees Johnson, Bridges and Baker, have been passed a resolution guaranteeing to all boat awarded $6,000 for their services as such by owners the payment of any repairs they may the Circuit Court for Washington county - put on their own boats, so as to insure them $2,000 to each receiver. traffic equal to the amount of the repairs on their boats. About 150 boats will commence The supervisors or division bosses of running when the canal is ready for them. the Chesapeake and Ohio canal have been appointed with instruction to oversee the 4/3/91, p. 3. It is feared that the high water repairs of the canal and with orders to press this week caused additional damage to the the work to completion will all the exertion canal. The one-mile level above that money and men can accomplish, with Shepherdstown was broken through in the understanding that the work must be several places and was entirely filled with completed before the 30th day of June, water. 1891. 4/10/91, p. 3. There is no need for laboring 3/20/91, p. 3. Some Cumberland persons men to be idle in this section. All the public have raked up some old claims against the works around here are running at full blast, canal and are making an effort to hinder the and the canal contractors want all the hands work of repairs. But Gen. Bradley T. they can get. Johnson says that there is nothing in the claims and that the trustees will keep right The brisk progress of work on the on. canal means that in a very short time Cumberland coal can be laid down on the 3/27/91, p. 3. Getting the Canal in Shape. wharves at Shepherdstown at a figure that The trustees of the Chesapeake & few other towns can boast of. Ohio Canal held a meeting in Baltimore last Thursday, and contracts for the work of Working Right Along.

90 The propitious weather of the present Williamsport by May 15th, and by July 1st week has given a new impetus to the work they hope to have it completed to of repairing the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, Georgetown. and things are beginning to hum along the The contractors are paying laborers line. At Hancock, Williamsport, Dam No. 4 at the rate of $1.25 a day, and they want all and Harpers Ferry hundreds of Italian the men they can get. laborers have been put to work, and the contractors have provided great numbers of 4/24/91, p. 3. Along the Canal. horses and carts. Within the next week or The canal repair hands have been at two there will be a busy string of men from work the past week cleaning out the outlet Cumberland to Georgetown, and with good lock opposite Shepherdstown, and a weather rapid progress will be made. considerable force has been at work. At The recent rise in the Potomac did Dam No. 4 eighty men are at work and more comparatively little additional damage. At are expected. There is every indication that Dam No. 4 part of the cribbing was washed the people who are repairing the canal are in out, causing a loss, Engineer Whitcomb earnest, for the work that is being done is of thinks, of about $2,500. the most substantial and permanent Mertens' Sons, the Cumberland boat- character. Two powerful dredges are being builders, opened their boat-yards last built, one at Cumberland and the other at Monday, and will put a large force of men to Georgetown. They are to be 55 feet long work repairing boats preparatory to the and 14 feet wide, and each will carry a opening of the canal. It is understood that double scoop at its bow. They will be of the they will not venture to build any new boats most approved style for canal work, and will unless they will be given a guarantee that the be ready for work before the opening of canal will be kept open a certain number of June. years. The Cumberland Lumber Company has just closed a contract with the trustees of 4/17/91, p. 3. A Thousand Men at Work. the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal to supply The work of repairing the lumber for repairs along the line of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal is being pushed canal. The supplies will be furnished from along at a great rate, and over a thousand the Ronceverte, W. Va., mills. men are at work along the line from Cumberland to Georgetown. At Harpers 5/15/91, p. 3. The water will probably be let ferry there is a big force of men, repairing into the canal at Cumberland the last of this the immense damage to the locks at that week. place. At Dam No. 4 they are putting in the cribs again and cleaning out the bed of the One of the Italians working on the canal. canal at Dam No. 4 was buried on a bank of A force of hands has been at work falling earth a few days ago. He was gotten opposite Shepherdstown this week. The out alive, but one of his legs was broken and damage at this point consists of washing of had to be amputated. the towpath and small sandbars in the canal. The outlet lock is in very bad shape, being 5/22/91, p. 3. Progress of the Canal almost entirely filled with sand and dirt. Repairs. - Work on the Chesapeake and The officials say they will have the Ohio Canal goes steadily on, and much is canal in running order from Cumberland to being done from day to day. That portion

91 between Cumberland and the tunnel, a launched last week. The machine will be distance of thirty miles, is now entirely completed by the 25th, and the work of completed, and from Hancock to dredging towards Georgetown will begin at Cumberland, a distance of sixty miles will once. This, however, will not delay be finished this week, while the contractors navigation. scattered all along the line are fast approaching each other. 6/5/91, p. 3. A streak of luck has hit the Last Monday the water was to have newspaper men in Williamsport. The been turned into the canal at Cumberland, to publisher of the Transcript has just gotten a fill it to the tunnel, for the purpose of position in Washington, and the editor of the floating eight loaded boats out of the tunnel, Leader has been made collector of the port which were washed in by the flood, and for the C. & O. Canal. have been standing there ever since. It had been expected that the water would have 6/26/91, p. 3. General Manager Winship of been turned in all the way to Williamsport, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, has but it was found at the last minute that one appointed G. L. Nicolson superintendent and level had to be deepened. It had been engineer, to have charge of the maintenance reported to Mr. Whitcomb that this level was of the waterway. The section bosses and all right, but when he tested it with his level their subordinate will be under his he found that a foot of earth had to come out immediate control. in some places, in order to give six feet of water, which the trustees have determined to 7/3/91, p. 3. Repairing the Canal. have throughout the entire length. A large Work at Dam No. 4. force is at work on this now, and as soon as Few persons have an idea of the this work and that of repairing one or two magnitude of the work required for the locks is completed, the canal from repair of the Chesapeake & Ohio at Dam Cumberland to Williamsport will be filled. No. 4, above Shepherdstown, and only by It is likely that this will take place by the end personal inspection can an estimate of the of this week. At Dam No. 6 some work has damage at that point be formed. A to be done, but this will not delay navigation representative of the Register visited that and it will probably be delayed until the point last week, where, through the courtesy water gets warmer. of Superintendent Henry C. Burgan, the On the whole line there are now work was examined. twelve hundred men at work, as many as can At no point on the canal, perhaps, be worked to advantage. did the flood of June 1, 1889, work greater Contracts are awarded for building a ruin than at Dam No. 4. Some distance large number of canal boats, and work will above the dam and guard lock a great break begin at once. They will be delivered at the was made, several hundred feet long and rate of one each week. The old boats will extending to the bottom of the river. also be rapidly repaired. Through this break the river rushed, carrying The dredge for the Georgetown end away the towpath and the bed and banks of of the canal has been completed and was put the canal, and a large portion of the wall of to work last week in Rock Creek, deepening the guard lock. Below the dam another big the outlet. The dredge for the upper end is break was made, by which the water again at Cumberland nearing completion. The escaped into the river bed. scow upon which it will be operated was

92 The first work to be done was to done - in a comparatively short time and construct cribs to turn the water back into under many disadvantages. And when the the river where it first broke through. The repairs shall have been completed we cribs were built, and another flood came and believe the canal will be in better condition washed them out. When they were finally than it has been for twenty years past. made secure, the work of filling in the break Both of the dredges are now at work was begun. Thousands of cart-loads of on the canal, deepening it and widening it at stone and earth were dumped in, and the the bottom. When finished the canal will water was finally shut out, the embankment carry six feet of water. Mr. Nicholson, the being rip rapped on the river side. To get assistant manager, says that it has been the necessary material in its place in the determined to run the canal on strict break, two bridges across the canal were business principles, and those who perform made, besides a great deal of other their duties well will be retained, and no preliminary work. The breaks below the favoritism will be shown any one. guard locks were then repaired, and these Preference will be given to old, experienced again were tremendous pieces of work. The canal men, but whose tenure will be repairs to the guard lock were next dependent upon their faithful services and commenced, and this work is nearly good behavior. finished. Very heavy stone walls have been Water was turned into the 14-mile built, apparently solid enough to resist any level of the canal above Williamsport possible pressure. When the Register man Monday. In a few days water will also be was there, the work in progress was that of put into the two-mile level. This will building the walls referred to, restoring the connect Cumberland and Williamsport, and towpath that had been washed away, and next week boats will be able to run between cleaning out the bed of the canal. Two old these two points. canal boats were stranded in the ditch, and it Mr. Jacob Mose has been appointed was necessary to remove these and the lock-tender at Johnson's Lock and Mr. John cribwork and bridges. Mr. Burgan thought James at the Shepherdstown lock. the water could be let in by the 12th of July. Mr. L. F. Grayson is the engineer in 7/10/91, p. 3. The Canal Trustees have charge of the work, and Mr. A. J. Yawger, posted notices forbidding persons to trespass one of the contractors, personally by driving a horse or other animal attached superintends the job and directs the to a wagon or other vehicle upon the tow- movements of the laborers. There are about path. The public is also warned to keep 150 men at work, 100 of whom are Italians. cattle off canal property. They are said to be hard workers, and it was The first canal boat built in an evident fact that such was the case. The Cumberland since 1884 was last Monday stock and plant were first class in every launched in the boat yard of Felix Bareis. respect - the horses and mules fine animals The new boat is to be built for the and the carts and other implements models Consolidation Coal Company, and is to be of convenience. named "44" in honor of the bondholders of No criticism of slow progress or that year. inefficient management of this undertaking The water will soon be turned into will hold good when the facts in the case are the canal. understood. On the contrary, an enormous amount of work has been done - and well

93 7/17/91, p. 3. The canal workers are putting however, that there are more applications in the new lock gates at the lock opposite than there are boats. Many of the old Shepherdstown. teamsters have kept their mules, and want to The first boat was loaded on the return to the tow path. The work of canal in Cumberland at the Consolidation restoring the canal has been under the Coal Company's wharf on Thursday, since direction of Major H. D. Whitcomb, the the flood of 1889. chief engineer, and H. W. Winship, the general manager, both of whom have their 7/31/91, p. 3. Water in the Canal Again. headquarters at Georgetown. The principal The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal has tonnage of the canal will be coal, grain, hay, taken a new lease of life. For the first time lime, cement, &c. since the memorable flood of June 1, 1889, The outlook for a good coal business the water is running through the old ditch is first class. The B. & O. Railroad, it is sufficient to float boats. For several weeks said, will ship largely over the canal, using it boats have been running between as a welcome relief for their enormous coal Cumberland and Williamsport. Last traffic. The West Virginia Central Company Saturday the gates were opened at Dam have begun the building of a connection No.4 and the water turned on the levels between their road and the canal, and have above Shepherdstown. The new work stood said that they will ship a considerable the pressure all right, but at the guard lock at amount of coal. the dam a small piece of the old The old canal has had an eventful embankment sprung a leak, and the water history. The true cause of its hard luck is had to be turned off. It was only the work of accredited by a well known Cumberland a few hours to stop the leak, however, and lady to unlucky Friday. It was begun Superintendent Burgan told the Register Friday, July 4, 1828, and a great many representative that on Tuesday the water movements in its subsequent history were would be turned on again and the levels begun on that unlucky day. In its restoration filled. The work is practically finished a great deal of care has been taken to between Cumberland and Georgetown, and eliminate Friday. For good luck the first boats were loaded at Cumberland on boat was started out on Thursday, and the Tuesday to go all the way through. Of improvements were begun on a lucky day of course, a great deal of finishing is to be the week. The canal has the distinction of done, and weak places will develop here and being the first great work of its kind in the there along the line, requiring some United States. George Washington was its additional repairs. first projector. It has cost the State about ten The resumption of business along the millions of dollars. The canal is 184 miles old waterway is done without the sounding long, and passes through a great deal of of trumpets, and in a very quiet way rugged and picturesque scenery. There are generally. The start is slow, owing seventy-five locks, each 100 feet in length, principally to the lack of boats. The old and 15 feet wide. They have all been put in boats are being repaired and put in condition good condition. as fast as they arrive in Cumberland, and A canal boat is 91 feet long, 14.5 feet new ones are being built. It was the general wide, and will carry from 112 to 120 tons of impression that there would be a great deal coal. The boats are divided into of trouble in securing stock to draw the compartments. The stern cabin is the living boats. Superintendent N. C. Read says, quarters, and some of these cabins are fitted

94 up very handsomely, as it is the home of the On Wednesday evening of last week captain's family. The middle cabin is called a number of creditors of the old canal the hay and grub quarters, and the bow is company met in Cumberland to take some used as stables for the mules. The action towards recovering the amount due intervening spaces are for the cargo. Each them for services rendered. The situation boat has a crew of four men and four or six was thoroughly discussed, and it was mules. Two men - a steersman and a driver determined to meet again shortly. In the - and two or three mules make up a team. meantime other creditors along the canal They alternate every six hours. It requires will be asked to join them. about nine or ten days to make the trip from Cumberland to Georgetown and return. While filling in a break at Dam No. 4 last week the Italians three human skeletons, 7/31/91, p. 3. The nineteen hundred pound the entire frames being perfectly preserved. safe belonging to Messrs. A. Spencer & Co., After examination by the bystanders, the Harpers Ferry, and which was washed away bones were pitched on the piles of dirt and by the flood of 1889, with the company's afterward shoveled in the break. The store-house, was recovered last week about skeletons are supposed to be the remains of a quarter of a mile below the B. & O. Bridge three cholera victims, which epidemic had at Harpers Ferry. It was unearthed in the been raging with full force in that vicinity at bed of the canal by the Italians at work on the time of the building of the canal. this thoroughfare, and had been sledged to pieces before Mr. Spencer could remove it. 8/14/91, p. 3. A stranger named Harry Some jewelry and coin, notes at hand and Curtis, from Pennsylvania, fell into the canal canal orders were recovered in good at Williamsport last Thursday and was condition, but several hundred dollars worth drowned. of other papers were destroyed by rough handling. 8/28/91, p. 3. The steam dredges are at work at different points along the canal 8/7/91, p. 3. The water has been let into the deepening the channel. They are making canal its entire length from Cumberland to rapid progress. Georgetown, but, as was to be expected, some weak spots have been developed, 9/11/91, p. 3. The break in the canal above requiring attention before navigation can be Williamsport has been repaired and traffic resumed. resumed.

Italians Drowned. - Two Italians who 9/18/91, p. 3. Another break in the canal worked on the canal at the Mountain Lock, occurred at Four Locks last Saturday. It is about six miles below Shepherdstown, were likely that these breaks will occur often this drowned last Sunday. They were in bathing, fall, until all the weak places shall have been and although unable to swim, jumped from a discovered and strengthened. boat into deep water. They drowned in sight of a number of persons, who were unable to 10/23/91, p. 3. The Messrs. Knott, who help them. The bodies were recovered and started their limestone quarries below town buried. some time ago, have begun the shipment of stone to Georgetown by way of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. There is a

95 strong demand there for the product of these excellent quarries. 1/8/92, p. 3. After the 1st of January, 1892, The Cumberland Times says Mertens the section under control of Mr. James E. & Sons have laid the keel for a new canal Hughes of the C. & O. Canal is extended to boat at their basin and are making repairs as Dam No. 5, and the section of Mr. W. T. speedily as possible on others. There is a Hassett will also be made to that point. This general demand along the canal for boats does away with the section now controlled and they are being loaded as fast as they by Mr. J. B. Master. come in. 2/19/92, p. 3. It is said that water will be 10/30/91, p. 3. The C. & O. Canal towpath turned into the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal will be raised and the canal widened at Big about the 1st of March. The canal is in Slack Water. pretty good order.

11/20/91, p. 3. The steam dredge of the 2/26/92, p. 3. Water will be turned into the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is in active C. & O. Canal between the 5th and 7th of operation at Dam No. 4 cleaning the channel March, and navigation will open on the 10th of the mud and other obstructions which of the month. washed in during the great flood of two years ago. The bank of the canal that was 3/11/92, p. 3. We hope that Manager built this summer is also being sodded on Winship, of the C. & O. Canal, will see to it the river side. that the outlet lock opposite Shepherdstown is soon repaired. No freights can be 12/18/91, p. 3. A canal boat run by a Mrs. delivered here or sent away without the Reed tied up opposite Shepherdstown a few expense of hauling and the heavy toll on the days ago so that medical attention could be bridge, whereas the repairing of the lock will obtained for a little boy who was sick. Mrs. allow coal, lumber and other stuff to be laid Reed, it will be remembered, lost a child a down at the wharf at Shepherdstown. It couple of years ago near this place, the body would also be a big help to the Potomac lying in the cemetery vault for a long time. Cement Works to have the lock opened.

We understand that the Chesapeake The C. & O. Canal. & Ohio Canal will be kept open this winter The Cumberland News of Monday as long as it is possible to run boats. Three says: "In a few more days, perhaps a new icebreakers have been built, and they fortnight, signs of life will again be seen on will be operated along the line until the ice the canal. During the winter months the gets too strong to be broken up. The canal boat builders along the line and here in officials are getting materials together so particular have been busy overhauling the that repairs to locks may be made when the old boats and building new ones. Since the water is withdrawn. season closed Messrs. Mertens & Sons, Bareis and the other builders have 12/25/91, p. 3. Mr. H. Winship, general constructed in the neighborhood of twenty- manager of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, five boats of the average size. All of these has authorized the announcement that the have been launched with the exception of water will be drawn from the entire line of two or three, and these will slide off of the the canal next Wednesday, the 30th inst. ways in a few days. All signs point to a

96 great amount of business being done on the canal this coming season, and Mr. Nelson 3/25/92, p. 3. Mr. Harry C. Getzendanner Read, the superintendent at this end of the has fitted up two canal boats which he will line, says the prospects were never brighter. run between Cumberland and Georgetown At 11:30 o'clock Saturday morning the in the coal trade. Mr. N. E. Stephens will water was turned into the canal so as to have charge of both the boats. permit of the launching of two new boats at Mertens yard, and in the afternoon it was 4/1/92, p. 3. Several Shepherdstown men turned off, the canal basin having filled. started out the first of the week on voyages This morning at 10 o'clock the Potomac will along the Chesapeake & Ohio canal. Tow- again be turned into the canal, this time to boys and captains are now hard at work stay. On or about the fifteenth of this month transporting the dusky diamonds. traffic will be resumed and everybody will get down to hard work. There are now 4/8/92, p. 3. The outlet lock of the C. & O. ready for the season's business nearly 200 canal opposite Shepherdstown is to be boats, and when newly constructed ones are cleaned out at once. Carpenters arrived on finished that number will be greatly Wednesday. A coffer dam will be built to exceeded." keep out the water, and the debris with which the lock is filled will be removed with 3/18/92, p. 3. Brisk Time on the Canal. wheelbarrows. A dispatch from Cumberland says: "Three boat yard at Cumberland are working 4/29/92, p. 3. The steam dredge of the large forces on men on full time, their object Chesapeake & Ohio Canal has been at work being to build another hundred boats and to this week at the outlet lock opposite have them on the water by the closing of Shepherdstown, cleaning it of the mud and next season. Every day two or three are debris that has been in it since the big flood. launched, and they will be put in service as soon as finished. The canal was opened 5/13/92, p. 3. Mr. Bradley T. Johnson has earlier this season than is usual, on account just finished a trip along the C. & O. canal, of the heavy shipments of coal awaiting during which he paid off the employees. He transportation. A new boat yard has just reports that during the month of April the been started, and the keels of three new receipts of the canal exceeded the expenses - boats have been laid. The prospects for a the first time since about 1879. He is greatly busy season are brighter than they have been pleased over the increased traffic and the for twenty years, and the canal company is good condition of the waterway. making ample preparations for the business. The canal basin, dams and locks have all 5/30/92, p. 3. Along the Canal. been strengthened, and the whole line is now The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in excellent condition." Company is having a lock house built at the Mr. Henry C. Burgan, of the C. & O. guard lock at the foot of slack water, near canal, was in town on Wednesday, and says where the old one stood that was taken away the canal is now in navigable order from by the flood three years ago. The house will Cumberland to Georgetown, and in excellent be a frame one, 16x24 feet, and two and shape throughout. Light boats passed one-half stories high. through the lock opposite Shepherdstown on It is reported that the Chesapeake Wednesday on the way to Cumberland. and Ohio Canal Company will repair the old

97 stone abutment at Dam No. 4. that was also gotten out. She was about eighteen years damaged by the flood three years ago. old. H. C. Burgan, superintendent of this division, will go to Harpers Ferry to 8/5/92, p. 3. Considerable repairs are to be superintend the work at that place. The made to the canal abutment on the Maryland steam dredge is at work there cleaning out side of Dam No. 4, above Shepherdstown. the canal. Michael Kean, of Cumberland, will do the work. 5/27/92, p. 3. A Boatman Drowned. Mr. Otho J. Kretzer, a well-known 8/19/92, p. 3. The river is extremely low at and esteemed citizen of Sharpsburg, was this point just now. The cement mill boat accidentally drowned in the Chesapeake & had a hard time getting up to the lock on Ohio canal at Hancock on Tuesday. Mr. Monday, and it was not loaded very heavily, Kretzer was turning a paddle at the Hancock either. lock when it broke and threw him under the boat, and he was drowned before he could 8/26/92, p. 3. The abutment on the be rescued. His body was soon recovered Maryland side at Dam No. 4, which was and was buried at Sharpsburg on badly damaged by the freshet of 1889, will Wednesday. He was about thirty years old be torn down and rebuilt. and leaves a wife, but no children. He ran a boat between Cumberland and Georgetown, The water in the canal is at present and it is said made more trips this season very low and the boats are only allowed to than any other boatmen. load up to the four foot water mark. The average tonnage of coal carried is about 106 6/3/92, p. 3. Work at Powell's Bend was tons, while when the water is good they load suddenly suspended on Thursday evening on an average about 112 tons. from some unknown cause. Embrey & Gruber, contractors, who have under their 9/2/92, p. 3. A big break occurred in the supervision the erection of the wharves for Chesapeake & Ohio canal at Antietam Iron the Cumberland Valley connection with the Works, about three miles below canal, were notified by the railroad company Shepherdstown, last week. The break to stop work until further notice. From what occurred at the corner of the aqueduct over cause is unknown, but a "hitch" is supposed Antietam creek, and was about 20 feet deep to have occurred between the canal and and 35 feet wide. As but few men could railroad company. work at the break at first the repairs were necessarily slow. 6/10/92, p. 3. Susan Barber, daughter of John H. Barber, of Williamsport, Md., went 9/9/92, p. 3. Mr. John James, the lock boating in a small boat on the canal keeper on the canal opposite Monday, in company with three other young Shepherdstown, has been granted a pension ladies and a small boy. When near the of six dollars a month. He was a member of Cumberland Valley Railroad bridge, below the Potomac Home Brigade. Williamsport, the boat filled with water and sank. All hands were thrown into the water. 9/23/92, p. 3. The pay boat passed along the The boy helped two of the ladies out, but Chesapeake & Ohio Canal last Wednesday Miss Barber drowned before she could be

98 and the employees were paid off for the there all night. Next morning about daylight month of August. he was seen by another colored man, who roused him up. Thompson said he was all On Tuesday of last week the lock of right and the man went on. Returning a the Chesapeake and Ohio canal at couple of hours later he found Thompson Brunswick was found to be blocked by some lying in a little pool of water, dead. obstacle, which was found to be the body of Magistrate Rentch was notified, and he a man afterwards identified as that of summoned the following gentlemen as a George Wire, a blacksmith of Lovettsville, coroner's jury: John H. Schoppert, E. T. Va. Mr. Wire got off a train at Brunswick Licklider, John H. Keesecker, John H. and in attempting to cross the canal to get to Snyder, Geo. W. Chase and T. B. Line. the other side of the river, fell in the canal After hearing the evidence in the case the and was drowned. jury rendered the following verdict: "That the said George Thomas came 10/14/92, p. 3. A number of boatmen on the to his death, it is supposed, by drowning, or Chesapeake & Ohio canal talk of giving up caused by drunkenness and exposure. From their boats and teams owing to high prices the evidence before us the deceased was at and scarcity of feed along the canal. Raleigh Domer's saloon at Bridgeport, Md., until a late hour at night, and left there 10/21/92, p. 3. There are now about 175 almost helplessly intoxicated." boats running on the Chesapeake & Ohio The body of the unfortunate man, Canal. They carried 9,632 tons of coal from who was about 35 years of age, was buried Cumberland last week. at the county's expense.

11/4/92, p. 3. Samuel Ensminger, a canal 11/25/92, p. 3. One day last week Albert boatman, accidently shot and killed himself Stephens, son of Mr. Eugene Stephens, was on a canal boat several miles above pretty badly hurt near Georgetown. He was Williamsport last Thursday. He received the with his father on a canal boat, and as the charge of a loaded gun, which he attempted boat was entering a lock he fell between it to pull out of the cabin window of the boat. and the wall. The boat swung against him He was a resident of Williamsport. and pretty nearly killed him. One leg was broken, it may be that an arm is also 11/11/92, p. 3. A Victim the First Day. fractured, and the child received a Last Friday Raleigh Domer's liquor tremendous cut on his head. He was saloon was opened at Bridgeport, just across brought to his home in Shepherdstown, the river from Shepherdstown. George where he is now getting along fairly well. Thompson, or Thomas, a colored man who He is about eight years old. lived in Charlestown, but who had been working for Mr. Robert Lucas near 12/9/92, p. 3. An Episode in the Life of Shenandoah Junction, spent a part of the James L. McChan. evening at the new resort, and some time in James Lawrence McChan - who in the night left the place very drunk. He Shepherdstown doesn't know Lawrence? - probably started for the water tank along the has returned from his last trip as tow-boy on railroad just above Shepherdstown, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. A couple of intending to get on a train, but before he got weeks ago, fired with a laudable ambition to there he fell alongside the track. He laid make money enough to buy himself a new

99 pair of winter boots, Lawrence connected Lawrence could not tell, although he was himself with the canal boat "Judge Hagner," looking right at it all the time. of the Potomac Cement Mill, in the capacity When asked concerning the fare on of mule driver. He made two round trips the boat, Lawrence said that it was all that between Shepherdstown and Georgetown. could be desired. It was mostly bean soup. He is now wearing the boots, but he has They had bean soup for dinner and bean resigned the position of sailor for life. soup for supper, but none for breakfast. Lawrence says that his chief They had good city made bread and country objection to boating is that there is too much made meat, with vegetables and side dishes walking connected with the business. Mules in plenty. do not seem to mind it, but it is mighty hard Arrived at Georgetown, Lawrence on a boy. The scenery is all that could be put on his good clothes and started out to see desired, but even a youth of Lawrence's the sights of Washington City. He saw a poetic temperament could extract no great many wonderful things, including the romance from it when walking alongside a Treasury building. Contrary to his trio of flea-bitten mules at two miles an expectations, however, no money was hour. visible, and, instead of being plastered with He also says that the occupation of greenbacks and stuccoed with gold and boating is incompatible with a Christian life. silver coins, only the cold marble walls A fellow just can't help cussing. Mules are could be seen. He also saw the Capitol. He the aggravatingest creatures ever born, and did not know what it was at first, but he said John the Baptist couldn't keep from to Burt Kidwell he was willing to bet that swearing at them sometimes. Lawrence was some awful rich man lived in that house. afraid he would be tempted himself to make Lawrence rather liked the city, and use of profane language if he continued on he made up his mind if he could get a job he the towpath, and rather than do that he would stay there. Seeing a tin-shop, he went resigned. He didn't propose to injure his in and struck them for a job. When asked if morals for the sake of filthy lucre. he had ever had any experience in the Then again, as everybody knows, business he proudly referred them to Henry there are spooks on the canal. Lawrence had C. Marten, of Shepherdstown. He a round with one himself. It was on the acknowledged that he could not make a nine-mile level, he says, that it made its bucket or a wash-boiler, but he thought he appearance. Lawrence was riding along on could give satisfaction at tim roofing. A one of the mules, just at twelve o'clock at young man took him down the street to night, when suddenly he was pulled off the where the boss was superintending the animal. He jumped up and looked around, roofing of a seven-story building. As he and there, not tne feet away, stood a man ascended further and further into the without any head, smoking a pipe! elements, Lawrence thought of old Anybody would have been scared at such an Shepherdstown and his friends and lost apparition, and Lawrence was pretty nearly some of his longing for the city. When he paralyzed. As soon as he could move he ran reached the top he got as near the center as and told the captain, Mr. Tuden Underdonk. he could and his application for work was Tuden swore at the ghost so vigorously that made known to the boss. That gentlemen it immediately disappeared, but whether it said: "Vell, mine frent, I gif you five dollars vanished into the earth, water or sky a month and board if you vork for me." That settled it. Lawrence said he's let him

100 know later, and he got down off the roof and 2/10/93, p. 3. The management of the C. & struck for the boat. He says he doesn't mind O. canal is pushing the work of repairs along working for an American citizen, but he the line wherever needed. About seventy won't work for no Jew. He says they don't five men are at work rebuilding the locks eat anything but shad, and he never did like this side of the tunnel. fish. Lawrence arrived home Tuesday 2/24/93, p. 3. All the ice has passed down night. His last adventure was at the the Potomac river, and Superintendent Mountain Lock, six miles below Henry Burgan, of the C. & O. canal, informs Shepherdstown. Here he turned the wrong us that not a particle of damage has been paddles and got the boat jammed in the lock. done to that waterway. For an hour and a half he was the object of a steady flow of miscellaneous profanity from 3/3/93, p. 3. We understand that Messrs. O. the lock-keepers and the assembled J. Keller & Bro., who are running the lime boatmen. Then, to crown all, in an endeavor kilns located at Keller's, this county, have to show off a little before the crowd, he leased the limestone quarry at Antietam and missed his jump for the boat as it was the old Wade quarry just below Antietam, leaving the lock, and he was obliged to walk along the canal, and will begin operating all the way home when it was his trick to them in the near future. They will ship the sleep. stone to Washington by boat. That which is That last six-mile tramp soured him first class limestone will be converted into on boating for good. Lawrence says that he lime and the balance will be utilized by a will next turn his attention to railroading, stone-crusher they will set up. Captain and if anybody has a railroad that needs a Charles Underdonk has contracted to do the good manager, please let him know. boating.

12/23/92, p. 3. The water will be drawn 3/10/93, p. 3. The first boat to go up the from the Chesapeake & Ohio canal on canal this year was No. 124, commanded by Saturday, and as soon as possible the work Capt. N. E. Stevens. It left Shepherdstown of repairs will be commenced. It is said that Thursday. a large number of new boats will be added in the spring, and the management will Last Saturday the feeder gates of the endeavor to haul a million tons of coal the canal were opened at Cumberland and the next season. The past season has been the work of filling the ditch commenced. It is most successful the boatmen have had for said that the loading of boats will begin at years. About 200 boats have been Cumberland on the 15th. constantly running, and over 270,000 tons of coal have been shipped. 3/24/93, p. 3. It is understood that H. C. Winship has resigned his office of receiver 1/13/93, p. 3. The official report of or manager of the Chesapeake and Ohio Collector Read, of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. His action is based upon his inability Canal, shows that last year 265,799 tons of to attend to his many business ventures and coal were shipped by this waterway. Of this the canal at the same time. The canal is amount 1,043 tons were sent to operated by bondholders, and these bonds Shepherdstown. are practically non-purchasable. It is also stated that the management of the canal will

101 fall upon the shoulders of Frederick yesterday. The tow path was badly washed Mertens, Cumberland, and who is one of the on the four-mile level below Dam No. 6. At '44 bondholders. Shepherdstown the water ran into the canal 3/31/93, p. 3. Navigation was stopped for from the river over the outlet lock, and ran four days on the canal last week by the out again just below the dam at the cement sinking of a boat caused by striking a stone, mill. Slight damage was done at various which had fallen into the canal from the other points. In many places the bottom cliffs at Snyder's warehouse, near lands along the river were submerged, and Sharpsburg. The coal with which it was the corn washed out from the newly planted loaded had to be transferred to another boat fields. The wooden trestle work used for after the water had been drawn off. building the new iron bridge across the Shenandoah at harpers Ferry was carried 5/5/93, p. 3. Excitement at Bridgeport. away. There was quite a ripple of excitement at Bridgeport, opposite 6/2/93, p. 3. Mr. Henry C. Winship, general Shepherdstown, last Sunday. A canal manager of the Chesapeake and Ohio canal, boatman purposely lost his dog as his boat has sent his resignation to the trustees of the passed through the lock, and the first thing bonds of 1844. He stated that his reason for the dog did was to charge on a flock of resigning was contained in his constantly ducks belonging to Peter Kretzer. There increasing duties which needed his entire were a few wild quack quacks, and five of attention. He expressed his regret at parting the ducks were silent in death. He next got with his associated, and in conclusion asked after Lock-keeper James' chickens, but had that Mr. George L. Nicholson, engineer and only killed one of them when his sport was superintendent of the canal, be selected as interfered with by the owners of the fowls, his successor. He called attention to Mr. who came armed to the teeth. Mr. James Nicholson's qualifications, and stated that no fired one bullet into the cur, who sat on the better selection could be made. canal bridge and howled. Mr. Kretzer fired one barrel of a shotgun. He missed the dog, 6/23/93, p. 3. A leak was discovered in the but he hit the barn. The dog still howled, bank of the canal at Miller's basin, a couple and then Mr. Peter let him have the other of miles below Shepherdstown, on Tuesday. barrel. He was killed dead enough for all The water was at once drawn off that level ordinary purposes, but his body was thrown and a force of men put to work to make into the river and he was drowned also. repairs.

5/12/93, p. 3. High Water in the Potomac. 7/7/93, p. 3. The steam dredge of the The Potomac river was higher last Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company is at Friday, we believe, than it has been since the the Guard Lock, at the foot of Big memorable flood of 1889. In some places it Slackwater, dredging the canal which was was level with the banks of the Chesapeake pretty nearly filled up at that place by the & Ohio canal, and that old waterway as flood of some two or three years ago. A usual suffered some damage from the channel was cut through so that boats could freshet. Near the cement mill, on the pass. It is estimated it will take two or three Hancock level, there was a break about months to get through to this place. twelve feet long, extending to the bottom of the canal, which was not repaired until

102 7/14/93, p. 3. Business on the canal Thursday, says the Washington Star, was up 9/22/93, p. 3. Mr. N. E. Stevens, a boatman to the standard, even above it, more boats on the Chesapeake & Ohio canal, fell dead coming in and the heaviest cargoes of the while at work near Goose Creek, in season being brought. If the increase in the Montgomery county, Md., last Thursday shipping continues at the present rate within evening. Mr. Stevens, who was a resident of a year the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal will Shepherdstown, was running two boats for be the greatest enterprise of the District. Mr. H. C. Getzendanner. He had tied up for the night at Goose Creek, and while carrying 8/25/93, p. 3. An Italian employed on the B. a feed trough ashore was attacked with a & O. improvements at Harpers Ferry was spell of heart disease. His wife saw him fall, accidently drowned in the canal lock at but by the time she reached his side he had Sandy Hook last Monday. He had a large breathed his last. The remains were brought sum of money upon his person. back to Shepherdstown and buried in Elmwood on Saturday. Mr. Stevens leaves a 9/15/93, p. 3. A Woman Drowned in the wife, who is a daughter of Mr. Richard Canal. - Last Saturday morning at 3 o'clock Morgan, and six little children, three boys Mrs. Stride, a resident of Sharpsburg, and and three girls. He was a steady and employed on a canal boat by Capt. Westfall, industrious man and well thought of by all fell in the canal and was drowned. The boat who knew him. He was about 34 years of was bound from Cumberland to Georgetown age. and had reached a point known as Miller's Spring, below Shepherdstown, when the 10/6/93, p. 3. Traffic on the canal will not accident occurred. It seems that the woman slow up, the officers of the company say, had a little boy on board on the front end of until the weather freezes the water in the the boat and she was walking with the lad stream and stubbornly refuses a passage to toward the cabin when they both fell in the boats. This will hardly come to pass until canal. A rope was thrown to the struggling after the 15th of December. people and the boy was saved, but the woman sank and never came to the surface. 10/12/93, p. 3. With this issue the Register Her body was recovered about 8 o'clock, begins its twenty-ninth new volume. after being in the water 5 hours. Justice Beginning this week we shall change the Blackford held an inquest over the remains day of publication from Friday to Thursday. and the verdict was accidental drowning. There will be no material change in the time of printing, as we shall go to press near noon It is said that the West Virginia each Thursday. Central Railroad will make a strong effort at the next session of the Maryland Legislature 10/19/93, p. 3. On the "log wall" level of to get control of the Chesapeake & Ohio the Chesapeake and Ohio canal a leak, canal, which the railroad company wants for which quickly developed into a break, was a roadbed to the east. sprung in the south bank last Thursday. Traffic was delayed about three days. The There was a big break in the canal break was near the Great Falls. about forty miles east of Cumberland last Sunday. It was thought it would take all 10/26/93, p. 3. Four mules belonging to week to repair it. William Young, of Cumberland, and in the

103 care of William Cramer, who is boating for the under running, such as are used on street his father, were thrown into the canal at Big cars, and the boat could not deviate more Slack Water last week and drowned. The than ten feet on either side of a line directly loss is placed at $400. Mr. Cramer had the under the overhead wire without mules on trippage. withdrawing the trolley from the wire. It is proposed to have an overhanging trolley 11/2/93, p. 3. Henry Teeters, a boatman, with a flexible or spiral wire connection well known to canal men, has been arrested with the motor, which will enable the boat to in Cumberland on the charge of assaulting go in any part of the canal. It is also the Ollie Rohm, a six year old child, who is in a design to have but a single motor to each precarious condition. boat, which will occupy but four square feet, far less than that occupied by a steam 11/9/93, p. 3. William Marmaduke, the engine. canal boatman who killed another boatman The great object had in view in this named Wm. Smith last June, was tried at experiment was to test not only the Cumberland last week. He plead guilty of practicability of electric propulsion, but the manslaughter and was sentenced to five relative cost of electric power and horse or years in the penitentiary. mule power. Governor Flower declared his belief that electric power will cost but one- 11/16/93, p. 3. Muskrats caused a bad break fourth as much as the power now in use; that in the towpath of the C. & O. canal at the cost of carrying a bushel of grain from Williamsport the latter part of last week. the lakes to New York city would be reduced to 2½ cents. The amount of freight 11/23/93, p. 3. The Mule Must Go. transported over the Erie canal per annum is The official test of the practicability three million tons. The Governor declared of running canal boats by electricity on the his belief that this can be increased to twelve Erie canal last Saturday has aroused million tons at what it now costs to transport considerable interest in this section, where the three million. If this expectation is many people are interested directly or realized, and it seems reasonable enough if indirectly in the Chesapeake & Ohio canal. the capacity of the locks is sufficient, a The experiment Saturday was entirely revolution will be wrought. The revival of successful. The boat was fitted with an old canals, which has already begun, will go on style propeller known as the dishpan. "Two with increased vigor, and canal construction motors of 25 horsepower each were placed all over the world will be promoted. With in the boat and geared directly to the shaft of electric power on the Chesapeake and Ohio the propeller in the same manner that the canal the cost of transportation to the motors are geared to the axles of the street seaboard may be so reduced as to make it cars. The wire was stretched over nine- impossible for any other coal to compete tenths of a mile of the canal near Rochester, with Cumberland coal along with the where there are several sharp turns and Atlantic seaboard. many difficulties presented. The current was but half the power desired, but it was 12/7/93, p. 3. Electricity on the C. & O. sufficient to move the boat, loaded with 175 Canal, Maybe. - Articles of incorporation tons of sand and as many people as could have been granted by Judge Edward Stake, stand upon the deck, at a speed of six or at Hagerstown, to the Chesapeake and Ohio seven miles an hour. The trolleys used were Transportation Company of Washington

104 County. It is the purpose of this corporation to apply electricity as a motive power to the 12/21/93, p. 3. A boatman can exercise his Chesapeake and Ohio canal, provided that unabridged and absolute right to swear at a the experiments with electricity, which are canal mule without fear of the law. That is now being tried on the Erie canal, in New settled now. William Cheney was fined for York State, prove successful. The amount exercising this time honored right by Justice of capital stock of the Maryland company is Dugan, of Williamsport. Cheney appealed $250,000, divided into 2,500 shares of $100 and the Court at Hagerstown decided in his each. Most of these shares are held by coal favor on the ground that the canal was not a operators in Western Maryland. A board of public highway in the meaning of the directors has been elected for the first year statute. The right of a boatman to "cuss" his as follows: Charles K. Lord, H. Crawford mule on the towpath is thus officially Black and Alexander Shaw, all of established. Baltimore; Lloyd Lowndes, of Cumberland; and J. Clarence Lane of Hagerstown. The John Swain died at his home in term of existence of the company is forty Sharpsburg last week, aged 70 years. He years. The charter is broad, but the was for many years a well-known canal application of electricity, to the propulsion boatman. of boats on the canal is the chief object which it has in view. The principal office 1/11/94, p. 3. From the Canal to Affluence will be at Hagerstown. A petition for divorce filed in the Mr. John K. Cowen, of the B. & O. Washington county has brought out the story Railroad company, when spoken to on the of a woman's strange life. Mrs. Catherine subject, said: "I know that this company has Shupp, years ago was employed on the been incorporated and I know that it intends Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, serving at to try to apply electricity to the canal if various times in the capacity of driver, sufficient proof be given in New York State steersman and cook, eking out but a scanty of the efficiency of the system there. The existence. Suddenly and unexpectedly she experiment on the Erie canal is being closely is now wealthy. watched, and as the Erie canal people have Recently a relative at death left Mrs. plenty of money at their disposal, there is no Shupp a legacy covering a considerable doubt that the test will be a thorough one. If quantity of land at Glen Echo, near it be found practicable the new corporation Washington, and other legacies amounting will endeavor to make an arrangement with to $150,000. Her bill for divorce from her the Chesapeake and Ohio canal whereby the husband, Henry Shupp, sets forth that the corporation will furnish the motive power. parties are residents of Williamsport, Md., Most of the stockholders are, I think, that they lived together for fifteen years, but interested in the coal industry in Western by a written mutual agreement have been Maryland. separated for twenty five years, with no hope of reconciliation, and asks that an 12/7/93, p. 3. Louis Cheney, for many lears absolute divorce be granted Mrs. Shupp. lock-tender at Cheney's Lock, near The announcement of the filing of Williamsport, died last Sunday in his 77th this bill, following so soon upon Mrs. year. He was the father of fourteen children, Shupp's good fortune, has occasioned twenty-eight grandchildren and twelve considerable comment in the locality where great-grandchildren.

105 the parties reside and where they are well This agreement is to be for a term of known. ten years and thereafter until terminated by six months' written notice from one of the 1/18/94, p. 3. It is expected to open the C. parties to the other. & O. Canal on March 1, ten days earlier The Transportation Company agrees than usual. The dredges will be put to work to maintain and operate the canal unless it be about February 15. The canal will be destroyed or damaged by flood. It will place dredged as deeply as possible, to allow the in service on the canal as many boats as are free passage of heavy cargoes. Boat builder necessary to transport coal and freight in Mertens is rushed with orders for new boats; 1894, or of subsequent years. as others along the line of the canal. Things, The Transportation Company the canal men say, are going to have a boom guarantees the net revenues not to be less the coming season. than $100,000 a year and any deficiency will be made good by the Transportation 2/1/94, p. 3. The officers of the Chesapeake Company, which agrees to furnish a and Ohio Canal will put the dredges to work satisfactory bond. about the middle of February with the hope The charges for tolls will not be of opening the canal on March 1, ten days changes without an agreement between the before the usual time. It is the intention to canal trustees and the Transportation get a deep bottom to allow boats with heavy Company, and nothing in the contract shall cargoes to pass freely. More than a hundred affect the powers of the trustees under the men are making improvements and repairs present or any future orders of the court. along the canal, and boatmen are improving Should the Transportation Company their vessels in expectation of a lively trade. wish to use electricity as a motive power the trustees are to furnish the necessary wires 2/8/94, p. 3. Want the Time Extended. and appliances, either experimental or A petition has been filed in the court permanently, but at the expense of the of equity at Hagerstown by the trustees of Transportation Company. the bondholders of 1844 of the Chesapeake Nothing in the contract shall be taken and Ohio Canal, asking the court to extend to give the company any exclusive rights on the time of the experimental existence of the the canal. canal's affairs to ten years instead of four, as Judge Stake has set Feb. 13 as the determined by the court. The canal has been date for hearing the case. running three years on an experimental basis by the orders of court, that should it be 2/22/94, p. 3. Quite a number of persons proven that the water way could be hauled ice from the canal the latter part of maintained profitably after four year's trial last week and the first of this. Some of it is the canal should be continued, but if not it excellent, nearly six inches thick. was to be sold. The petition was filed because of an 3/1/94, p. 3. The canal repair hands have agreement which it was desired to enter into stopped the big leak that ran under the house by the canal trustees and the Chesapeake at Johnson's lock, above town, and have and Ohio Transportation Company of made other repairs there. The canal is now Washington County, recently incorporated ready for the water. in Hagerstown, with a view of supplying electric motive power on the canal.

106 3/8/94, p. 3. On account of the high water in and Ohio canal for labor and material was the Potomac the water was not turned into held at the Hotel Hamilton at Hagerstown on the canal the first of this week. It is said, Tuesday. W. U. Reed, of Harpers Ferry, however, that it will be turned in today or was secretary of the meeting. Alburtus tomorrow. Spencer, of Harpers Ferry, and John A. Dugan and Frank T. Goddard, of 3/15/94. p. 3. Contrary to expectation, the Williamsport, comprising the committee water was not turned into the C. & O. canal recently appointed at a meeting held by the last week. Information yesterday was to the claim-holders of Washington county, effect that it would be turned in today, the advised that a bill be filed in the circuit court 15th, and that way bills would be issued on for the sale of the canal. They will also ask the 20th. that the court determine the matters stated in case of Goddard vs. Brome and others, filed 3/22/94, p. 3. Although the water has been in the canal case about three years ago. turned into the C. & O. canal, the shipment of coal for through business has not yet 5/17/94, p. 3. G. T. Hodges shipped about begun. A few of the boats from this place 4,000 bushels of wheat to Georgetown by have pulled out for Cumberland, but most of canal this week. them are still here awaiting orders. 5/24/94, p. 3. A Big Rain and High Water. 4/5/94, p. 3. A boat-load of cement was Off and on the latter part of last week shipped to Washington from the Potomac frequent and copious showers of rain fell Cement Mills this week. over this section. Saturday afternoon, when the wind blew up from the South great A serious break in the canal several masses of heavy clouds, the rain began to miles below Hancock, was narrowly averted fall in good earnest - continuous torrents last Saturday through a timely discovery by falling all of Saturday night and early the the level-walker, who ran in full haste to the following morning. The Potomac river company boat, several miles away, and gave responded quickly, and by 9 o'clock Sunday the information. It was at the point where morning was a-booming. It continued to the break occurred several years ago, which rise all day, and though far below the high- suspended navigation for some weeks and water mark of 1889, it was nevertheless a cost $1,500 to repair. It is claimed that the dangerous looking flood of seething, yellow levels are kept too full to accommodate the water that bore upon its crest huge trees and boats, each carrying from ten to twelve tons other drift. Shepherdstown is so high above more of coal than heretofore, making danger the stream that it can never do much damage of breaks imminent at all times. here, so our people rested easy. Some of those who lived in the houses on the 4/19/94, p. 3. The steam packet of the opposite side of the river, though, moved out Chesapeake and Ohio canal passed over the during the day. And no wonder, for the route last week paying off the employees for most terror-inspiring rumors were afloat. the month of March. So-and-so had received a message that the Potomac at Cumberland was nine feet higher Want the Canal Sold. than the great flood five years ago. A meeting of those interested in the Somebody else had a report that at settlement of claims against the Chesapeake Williamsport it had risen seventeen feet in

107 three hours. There was, of course, no truth alive, into the canal, or on canal property. in any of these reports. Persons found guilty of such acts will be The cliffs and the bridge at this place fined $10 for each offence and will be were lined all day by crowds of people, the required to move the nuisance at their own running waters and the drift and the expense. Superintendent Nicholson wreckage possessing a powerful fascination. personally notified the residents of Hancock Even the showers that came between times having stables and outhouses along the couldn't keep the people away. It was feared bank, from which there is an overflow, that that the canal might be seriously damaged the evil must be remedied, or proceedings by the flood, but Superintendent Burgan will be taken. All individuals who have informs us that no great harm was done. encroached upon canal property and inclined There were a couple of small breaks and at to be obstinate regarding this matter, will be various points sandbars were formed in the politely asked to move off. canal. He at once had the water drawn off and a big force of men put to work to make 8/2/94, p. 3. The residents of Bridgeport repairs. The water will be turned in on this complain very much of the behavior of boys section today. who go bathing in the canal at that place. The storm was a general one, and did They say the boys are so immodest that it is much damage throughout Pennsylvania. most annoying, and if they do not heed this The Susquehanna river was very high. At warning other means will be taken to put a Williamsport the loss to property and by the stop to the bad behavior. escape of logs from booms amount to a million dollars. The Pennsylvania Railroad 8/9/94, p. 3. H. W. Quigg, a mule-driver on suffered great damage between Harrisburg the Chesapeake and Ohio canal, was shot and Pittsburg. The bridge at Johnstown was and killed Tuesday afternoon by Frank swept away. Its western passenger trains Williams, a colored canal boatman. The have been running over the B. & O. men were on a boat near Georgetown, when, Railroad, some of them being transferred at it is stated, Williams asked Quigg for his Philadelphia and some by way of the (William's) whip. Quigg refused to give it Cumberland Valley at Martinsburg. to him, and the two had an argument, which In this section the loss by rain and ended in Williams shooting Quigg, causing high water was not great. The corn was his death a few hours later. Williams was washed out in some fields, and in places the arrested. wheat was beaten down, though it will come up again. The Opequon was higher than for 8/16/94, p. 3. Frank Delaney was stabbed in five years. In Berkeley county a flock of the cheek, neck and one hand by a man sheep belonging to John Gray, who lives named James, of Georgetown, a few days along Mill Creek, were standing on an island ago at Cumberland. Delaney is a resident of in the stream when the high water came. Sharpsburg and is running a boat on the They were all drowned. canal. The affray happened on the street at Cumberland. The case is a critical one, an 7/5/1894, p. 3. Along the Canal. artery in his neck being cut. It seems that The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Delaney and several of his companions were Company has posted notices along the line teasing James, and he lay for him in the dark of the waterway warning all persons against and stabbed him. Delaney's mother has throwing the bodies of animals, dead or gone to Cumberland to nurse him.

108 he had to be tied in a chair. A few hours 8/23/94, p. 3. The steam dredge of the afterward death ended his sufferings. He Chesapeake and Ohio canal is working on was 38 years old and leaves a wife and three the six-mile level opposite Shepherdstown. children. The channel between the lock and the Antietam Cement Mill is being deepened. 2/21/95, p. 3. The canal will open for navigation not later than March 10, unless 12/13/94, p. 3. William Hall, one of the the weather is very unpropitious. oldest boatmen on the C. & O. canal, and a man well-known all along the line of that 2/28/95, p. 3. A canal boat belonging to Mr. waterway, died in Sharpsburg last week. He Charles H. Knott was carried down the river had previously been paralyzed on his boat. when the ice broke up several weeks ago He was about 70 years old. and lodged on the pulp-mill dam above G. L. Nicholson, superintendent of Harpers ferry, where it broke in two. Last the Chesapeake and Ohio canal, and Wm. T. week the pulp-mill company had the wreck Hassett, of Four Locks, one of the burned, as it obstructed the waterway. supervisors, have purchased the old Mitchell & Dawson boat yard at Hancock, which has 3/14/95, p. 3. Water was turned into the been idle for some years, and will Chesapeake & Ohio canal the first of the recommence boat building. week, and the first light boats passed up on John Hays, trustee, sold 61 acres of Tuesday. The Shepherdstown boatmen have land and a flouring mill at the old Antietam pulled out for Cumberland, where loaded iron works, near Sharpsburg, to George M. boats will be cleared on Monday next, Hays for $400, and 92½ acres of ore land, March 18th. It is said that the will be 210 along the Chesapeake and Ohio canal, near boats on the canal this season, and that the the Harpers Ferry dam, to George M. Hays outlook for a prosperous season is good. for $1,000. 3/21/95, p. 3. Mrs. Stevens, Otho Kretzer, 1/3/95, p. 3. During the year 1894 238,830 Edward Dunn and George Sanbower, who tons of coal were shipped over the C. & O. are engaged in boating, have all pulled out canal. Of this amount 89,605 tons were for for Cumberland. Wm. L. Arthur also expect Williamsport. to boat this summer. A number of fish have been caught It is said that an effort will be made in the canal the past week or two. Before to buy or lease property at Bridgeport, the freeze the fish were caught in drag nets. opposite Shepherdstown, upon which a Afterwards the fish could be seen under the liquor saloon will be opened. But a location ice in holes, when they would be captured will be hard to get. by cutting away the ice. There will be this summer from Sharpsburg and vicinity 48 boats, employing 1/10/95, p. 3. Thomas Chaney, living near about 150 men and boys and 165 mules. Dam No. 4, in Washington county, was Sharpsburg furnished more boats than any taken suddenly with a severe attack of one town along the waterway. lumbago Monday of last week. He grew rapidly worse and on Wednesday the pain 4/18/95, p. 3. Canal News. became so intense that Mr. Chaney lost his A dispatch from Hancock on reason. Thursday he became so violent that Monday said: A number of canal boats of

109 the George's Creek Cola Company have passed down by Hancock without a load of 4/25/95, p. 3. C. L. Nicholson, coal, and the boatmen say they cannot load superintendent of the Chesapeake and Ohio before May 1, and perhaps for two weeks Canal, writes to a committee of later. These are orders from the company, Williamsport boatmne who have asked him and the boatmen can neither tie up at the to make a law prohibiting boating on points they receive the orders or return home Sunday, that while he concurs in the move, to wait until they are called. A number went he cannot accede to their request, as there nearly to Cumberland before they were may be a number of boatmen who take aware of the order and then turned back. another view of the matter. When the telephone was in operation along the canal this was avoided. There are at 5/2/95, p. 3. The Status of the Canal. least forty boats employed by the George's With the ending of the month of Creek Coal Company. The reason for this April another chapter is completed in the stoppage is that it is yet early in the season history of the Chesapeake and Ohio canal. and there are no vessels at Georgetown to According to a decree passed by Judge receive the coal. The boatmen report that a Alvey in February, 1891, the trustees number of Consolidation boats are now representing the holders of bonds issued in lying loaded at Georgetown. The company 1844 were given control of the canal under is loading boats at Cumberland at the rate of certain conditions. Some of these were that four or five boats a day and the coal is they repair the damage made by the floods mainly for railroad consumption. of 1889, that they provide for the payment E. P. Steffey, a coal dealer of of repair bonds issued in 1878, and that they Williamsport, says the depression in have the canal open for traffic on or before business is due to the active competition of May 1, 1891. These conditions having been the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. He complied with, the trustees were enjoined to says that the agents of the Pennsylvania coal show to the satisfaction of the court that the operators are very numerous, and are old waterway could be made a paying making special effort, with some success, to investment and to reasonably assure them market their coal in the territory which that it could pay off its accumulated heretofore drew its supply from the canal. indebtedness. On July 30, 1894, Judge They have made a considerable cut in the Stake filed an order in the circuit court for price of coal. All this has affected the trade Washington county, extending the time of the Cumberland region and business on named in Judge Alvey's decree for a period the canal is consequently dull. Very little of six years. As appeal was taken by the coal is now being transferred at minority bondholders and the State of Williamsport, and this sudden turn in what Maryland, but the case has not been heard as seemed would be a most prosperous season yet in the Court of Appeals. It is though that has had rather a depressing effect on the this court will confirm Judge Stake's rulings boatmen. and that the extension of time will be It is said, also, that the West Virginia granted. Central railroad, which is controlled by the Davis-Elkins-Gorman syndicate, is doing all 5/9/95, p. 3. The old Seneca woods in it can to destroy the business of the canal. Montgomery county, along the C. & O. The West Virginia Central wants the canal canal, will be cleared away. Many a tale of for a roadbed.

110 "spooks" seen there have been told by active demand for coal at Georgetown and superstitious boatmen. different points along the waterway. 5/16/95, p. 3. A colored boy was drowned 6/27/95, p. 3. Down Goes the Yacht. from the canal boat John K. Cowen near Mr. Henry Shepherd's steam yacht Orleans last Sunday. Minnehaha met with bad luck Tuesday night. Mr. Shepherd with several friends 5/16/95, p. 3. The towpath for a distance of went up the canal as far as Kerfoot's lock on 95 feet at the foot of Dellinger's widewater, the boat, and returned late in the evening. below Williamsport, on the Chesapeake and When a short distance above Shepherdstown Ohio canal, was swept out into the river on lock someone in the boat attempted to Sunday about midnight. The break is about change position, and somehow or other the ten feet deeper than the bottom of the canal little vessel upset and went to the bottom of and was caused by the river secretly the canal upside down. All the occupants undermining the bank.. Many tons of earth escaped with no other damage than a very disappeared in the river. It will take at least complete sousing in the water. a week to repair the damage and in the meantime through boating will be at a 7/11/95, p. 3. Dashed to his Death. standstill. A large force of men are now Frank B. Orndoff, aged fifteen years, filling up the breach. was instantly killed last Sunday near Weverton, on the Baltimore and Ohio 5/30/95, p. 3. J. C. Lambert, of this place, Railroad, by being struck by the eastbound has bought the property at Mercersville, on Chicago express train. Engineman Kelly, the canal, five or six miles above who had charge of the locomotive, says that Shepherdstown, formerly owned by Mrs. young Orndoff was standing on the Nancy Bowers, and has moved his bar-room eastbound track, watching a train which was fixtures there. He will conduct a saloon at passing on the west track. The airbrakes that point. were applied but the train struck the boy and Wm. L. Arthur left on Monday for threw him backward into the Chesapeake Cumberland, where he has secured a boating and Ohio canal, which parallels the track at outfit for business on the Chesapeake & that point. The body was recovered from Ohio canal. He will haul coal from the canal and Coroner P. E. Miller gave a Cumberland to Georgetown. certificate of accidental death. Then the Thomas Kerfoot, who is lock-keeper body was taken to Baltimore where the at the head of the five-mile level on the C. & young man lived. He was employed as a O. canal, six miles above Shepherdstown, messenger in the freight department office asks us to inform the public that he is of the B. and O. central building, and left conducting a first-class fishing resort at that Baltimore Saturday for a visit to friends near place. He has boats, fishing tackle, bait and Weverton. He was the support of a everything necessary to catch the bass which widowed mother. abound in that neighborhood. Furthermore, Tom says he will endorse all the big fish 7/18/95, p. 3. A Fatal Fight Near Harpers stories told by his customers. Ferry. - David J. Markey died near Harpers Ferry early last Saturday morning from the 6/6/95, p. 3. Coal shippers at Cumberland effects of a blow given him by George W. have put all their boats into service on the Lapole, a canal boatman, Markey was a Chesapeake and Ohio canal, as there is an work hand about the Ferry. He was a

111 member of the well-known and respected of the brain. The testimony at the inquest Frederick family of that name, and was 51 was damaging to Lapole, and was to the years old. He was subject to spells of effect that the assault upon Markey was very temporary mental aberration and was under brutal and that there was little to provoke it. treatment on several occasions for his Markey never made any attempt to strike affliction. Friday afternoon he boarded the Lapole. canal boat in command of Lapole at ------Weverton with the intention of going some Wednesday of last week Miss Mollie distance up the canal. Markey was under Shoemaker fell in the canal at Hancock, the influence of liquor and the men began to Md., and was drowned. A day or two later quarrel soon after he got on. Lapole states Burtner Robert, a five-year-old boy, fell in a that after they had gone about a mile beyond mill race at the same place and was Harpers Ferry he was obliged to put Markey drowned. ofrf the boat. Lapole ordered him off and when he landed, while Lapole was handing 8/8/95, p. 3. The C. & O. Canal Offered his luggage out to him, he used such abusive for Sale. - The Maryland Board of Public language that he angered Lapole, who Works has advertised for bids for the sale of stepped off the boat and struck him with his the State's interest in the Chesapeake and fist. Markey fell backward and did not Ohio Canal. Sealed proposals will be move after striking the ground. Lapole received up until October 11, 1895. Every called a man from the boat, who helped him bid must be accompanied by bond in the to lay the prostrate form aside of the sum of $100,000, and the terms of sale will towpath, thinking he was very much under be cash. The board is empowered either to the influence of liquor and that he would be sell the state holdings, should a satisfactory all right by and by. The boat was again bid be received, or may reject any and all started and reached Williamsport Saturday bids. In the latter case, the value of the morning where Lapole was surprised to find property will be determined by the himself in the hands of Sheriff Bruce S. proposals, and the next legislature will have Zeller, charged with killing Markey. He some practical basis upon which to work in was taken to Hagerstown and lodged in jail deciding a question which has caused an to await a hearing set for Wednesday before immense amount of trouble for many years. Justice Middlekauff. His boat is tied up at This is supposed to be another effort Williamsport awaiting results. The on the part of the West Virginia Central circumstances surrounding the affair are Railroad to get possession of the waterway very unfortunate, as he had no idea, from Cumberland to Georgetown, for the according to his statement, that Markey was purpose of converting it into a railroad by fatally injured, He knew nothing of his which to reach tidewater. This will give the death until the sheriff told him. His home is road an opportunity to compete with the in Frederick county, and he says this is the Baltimore and Ohio for the coal traffic of first trouble he was ever connected with. Maryland and West Virginia. The State's His family accompanied him on the boat. interest, is addition to several loans Justice Preston E. Miller held an advanced and the unpaid interest, amounts inquest on Saturday, and the jury returned a to $30,000,000. The action of the board of verdict that Markey came to his death by public works is due to the failure of a being struck in the face by Lapole, commission appointed through an act of the fracturing his skull and causing concussion Legislature of 1892 to investigate the

112 facilities of the canal, and suggest the Williamsport, and upon entering the lock the advisability of selling, failing to report in a boat struck against the wall and threw him satisfactory manner. out into the water. In falling he struck his head against the boat and cut an ugly gash in 8/15/95, p. 3. Thomas Little, who had been his head. The boat hands rescued him, and an employee of the C. & O. canal for thirty he was taken on to Williamsport. years, died at Two Locks last week, aged 85 The low water in the Potomac has so years. seriously affected traffic on the canal that F. Mertens' Sons, Cumberland, have notified 8/22/95, p. 3. A boatload of cement was all George's Creek boatmen to remain at shipped from the Potomac cement mill to their respective ports until it rains. The Washington last week. Temporary repairs levels of the canal from Cumberland to Dam were made to the dam so as to raise the No. 6 contain only three and a half feet of water sufficiently to float the scow. water, and boats are carrying half their usual Charles A. Little, special auditor of loads. Unless the drought is soon broken, claims against the C. & O. canal company navigation will close. The canal company has been at Hancock, Sharpsburg, has taken off the trippage in order that the Cumberland and other points this week boatmen can continue in business. auditing claims against the company. The amount will probably reach $75,000. 10/10/95, p. 3. Low Water in the River. The Potomac river is an interesting 8/29/95, p. 3. The canal officials have sight at the present time. No one remembers ordered 2,500 piles to be used in when it was lower than it is now, the long strengthening the bank of the canal below continued drought having reduced the Williamsport. stream to unusual proportions. From the bridge at Shepherdstown the bottom of the 9/5/95, p. 3. Doc. Ensminger, of river may be seen all the way across and Williamsport, an old boatman on the C. & ledges of rock seldom seen are almost at the O. canal, dropped dead while driving his top of the water. It is interesting to watch mules near Dam No. 6 Tuesday night. He the schools of bass that may be seen from was 60 years old. the bridge, with occasionally a big carp or other fish swimming about. Below the dam 9/26/95, p. 3. Harry Thompson, the lock a child might wade across the stream in tender on the C. & O. canal who inherited a water scarcely reaching to the knee. At the fortune some months ago, is said to have dam, too, may be noticed many ledges of been cheated out of all his money. He is rock projecting above the water, which is sick with brain fever in a hospital and his but a few inches deep, and one can see what family is destitute. a small volume is passing down. Business on the canal is practically at 10/3/95, p. 3. Taking advantage of the low a standstill, most of the boatmen having tied water, the canal company has made up. The lower half of the canal has full extensive repairs to Dam No. 4. levels, but the upper part, fed by the north Owen Ardinger, aged about 70 years, branch of the Potomac, can only float half a narrowly escaped drowning Saturday night load. The water situation at Cumberland in Hapers Ferry lock. He secured a boat of grows more serious each day. Ezekiel Chaney to go to his home in

113 10/17/95, p. 3. Navigation on the proposes building the poser house on the Chesapeake & Ohio canal has come to a West Virginia side of the river, and has, it is dead stop on account of low water. At said, secured the right to do so from the Cumberland, it is said, there is no water at Berkeley county authorities. To get power all in the bed of the Potomac river, every to Hagerstown, Mr. Evans stated, would cost drop possible being turned into the canal. fully $90,000, and to put it in operation But not withstanding this, there is not would cost $10,000 more. Mr. Evans has a sufficient water in the canal to float more list of the manufacturers who expect to use than one-third of a load. Daniel Bowers, of his power. Sharpsburg, on his last trip from Accident to Mr. Arthur. Cumberland, with forty seven tons of coal Monday morning there was a jam of on his boat, put on thirty mules at one of the canal boats at Grove's Landing, a few miles levels to draw the boat. above Shepherdstown. Mr. Wm. L. Arthur, of this place, had seven mules hitched to his 10/24/95, p. 3. To Resume Boating. boat pulling with all their strength, when the The coal companies at Cumberland deadeye holding the line was forced out. It are urging canal boatmen to return to that struck him in the forehead and knocked him place with their boats. They will be loaded into the canal. He was quickly gotten out with fifty ton cargoes, with which, it is and came to Shepherdstown, where Dr. thought, the levels can now be navigated. A Reynolds attended to his injury. Although number of boats lying at Sharpsburg are the wound was a very severe one, Mr. ready to move as soon as it is deemed Arthur was able to proceed with his boat. practicable. On Monday eleven boats were loaded at Cumberland, and on Tuesday 11/28/95, p.3. John Wolf, of Williamsport, fourteen. Each boat carried about forty tons and John Westbrook, two canal boatmen, of coal. were arrested and placed in jail in Washington a few days ago for viciously 10/31/95, p. 3. Death Notes. assaulting an old man named Charles Hamet Eichelberger an ex- Calhoun. Wolf had been robbed of $18 Confederate soldier and a native of while he slept in Calhoun's house. Under Louisiana, died at this home at the Mountain pressure Calhoun agreed to make good the Lock on the C. & O. Canal, on last Saturday loss, and returned $3. Wolf and Westgbrook night, at the age of 66 years. Mr. then proposed to beat the remainder out of Eichelberger leaves a widow and eight the old man's hide, and when they had $15 children, a daughter, Mrs. Samuel Swain, worth of satisfaction they left Calhoun for living in this vicinity. He was buried in dead. Mountain View Cemetery, Sharpsburg, on Monday. 12/5/95, p. 3. A boat load of coal, about 125 tons, was received at the Potomac 11/14/95, p. 3. Electricity from Dam No. 4. cement mill last week, and Thursday a Powell Evans, who is at the head of a boatload of cement, about 900 barrels, was party of Philadelphia capitalists, has shipped to Washington. purchased the entire plant of the Schuyler Electric Light Company at Hagerstown. 12/12/95, p. 3. Navigation Closed. Evans proposes to obtain power by utilizing The various toll collectors along the the Potomac at Dam No. 4. Mr. Evans Chesapeake and Ohio canal have been

114 notified to issue no way bills after December cargo of coal, was sunk in the big pool the 14, which means that shipments will close first of the week by being cut through by the for the season at that time. The water will ice. drawn out between December 21 and 25. Boating was pursed with great difficulty last 12/26/95, p. 3. Mrs. Matilda Crow, who for week. Most boatmen who could reach their sixty five years was the faithful and devoted respective homes with light boats tied up for wife of Captain John Crow, one of our the winter. The ice breaker was run in order oldest and most respected citizens, died last to keep the channel open. There is still a Thursday night at her home in heavy demand for coal at Georgetown. Shepherdstown, aged 82 years, 5 months Five captains of canal boats the past and 10 days. Her death was caused by season have been women, two being paralysis. Mrs. Crow, whose maiden name widows. Mrs. Leopold, whose husband, was Barger, was born near Antietam Iron George W. Leopold, a canal captain is in jail Works, in Washington county, Md. She was at Hagerstown, charged with the murder of married to John Crow on April 3, 1830, and David Markey, has been running the boat their long married life was one of ever since his arrest. Mrs. Riley, Mrs. Eddy uninterrupted devotion. They have resided and Mrs. Engle are the other captains. in this place since 1861, Captain Crow for many years being engaged in running Mr. 12/19/95, p. 3. A Child Burned to Death. David Billmyer's grain boat between this The Hagerstown Mail says that place and Georgetown. Mrs. Crow was the Cecil, the 18-month-old son of Eugene mother of twelve children, of whom four are Bowers, a canal boatman of Sharpsburg, was living; Jacob B. Crow and Mrs. J. C. Show, burned to death Saturday evening on his of Shepherdstown, J. W. Crow, of father's boat, which is tied up at the Williamsport, and Alexander D. Crow, of Sharpsburg landing. The child was asleep Wash8ingtoln county, Md. She is also and had been placed in a crib in the stern survived by her husband, who is almost 86 cabin by Mrs. Bowers, who went into the years of age. To him the death of his wife, forward cabin to attend to some work. who shared his joys and sorrows through so Shortly afterward the mother heard the child many years, comes as a great shock, and his screaming and ran back to witness a distress is touching. Mrs. Crow was a most frightful sight. The crib in which the child estimable woman in every respect - a lay was wrapped in flames and the helpless devoted and helpful wife, a loving and self little one writhing in agony. Mrs. Bowers sacrificing mother, and a good and respected promptly extinguished the fire and rescued neighbor. She was a member of the her son from the perilous condition. The Methodist church of this place, where her child's body was horribly burned. Dr. funeral was held Saturday afternoon. The Garrett rendered medical attention. After service was conducted by the pastor, Rev. lingering a few hours death resulted from W. McK. Hammack, and her body was laid the effects of the injuries. The crib stood to rest in Elmwood Cemetery. near a small stove at the side of the cabin and it is though that a spark flew out and set 1/2/96, p. 3. During the shipping season just fire to the child's clothing. closed on the Chesapeake & Ohio canal coal was transported as follows: To Hancock, 12/19/95, p. 3. The canal boat George L. 1,609 tons; to Four Locks, 213 tons; to Two Nicolson, Gruber Castle, captain, with a Locks, 110 tons; to Williamsport, 91,969

115 tons; to Mercerville, 117 tons; to McCoy's snow storm yesterday delayed the starting of Ferry, 160 tons, to White's Ferry, 190 tons; boats to some extent. to Sharpsburg, 330 tons; to Shepherdstown, 625 tons; to Harpers Ferry, 51 tons; to Point 4/2/96, p. 3. Charles Gray, a young of Rocks, 109 tons; to Georgetown 216,890 boatman, who hails from Sharpsburg, was tons. Total 312,773 tons. arrested at Cumberland, Md., last Saturday, charged with felonious assault upon Mrs. 1/9/96, p. 3. The Potomac river has been Jesse Kerens, the wife of a boatman who frozen solidly from shore to shore this week, was Gray's employer. Gray had been and the smooth, even surface of the ice has staying with the Kerenses on a canal boat, afforded great pleasure to large crowds of and while Kerens was absent, according to skaters. From the dam below down to the testimony of Mrs. Kerens, Gray Johnson's lock, a stretch of two miles the committed the assault. In default of $1,000 skating is superb. bail, Gray was committed to jail.

1/30/96, p. 3. Accidents. 6/11/96, p. 3. An excursion boat owned by Thomas Moore, Mountain Lock, was John W. Cope on Sunday sank in the working on a scow on the C. & O. canal, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal below when his little son, Thomas, went into the Cumberland with thirty-five persons on cabin of the scow and took out a dynamite board. The excursionists were rescued. The cap, thinking it was a firecracker. He began sunken craft impeded navigation in the canal playing with it, when it exploded, blowing until raised. off two fingers and badly tearing the thumb of the left hand. The fingers were so badly 6/25/96, p. 3. New Lease of Life for the mangled as to necessitate amputation. Canal. - The Court of Appeals of Maryland has granted a new lease of life to the 3/5/96, p. 3. Edward Renner, aged seventy- Chesapeake & Ohio canal by granting an eight years, of Sharpsburg, is said to be the extension of the time it may be operated by only man living in this section who helped the trustees until 1900. The court affirms to build the Chesapeake and Ohio canal. He the decision of Judge Stake in 1894. By the was present when the first spadeful of earth decree of Judge Alvey the canal was ordered was turned by John Quincy Adams, to be sold, but was placed in the hands of the President of the United States, and saw all bondholders of 1844 for four years, and it the foreign representatives who were at the decreed that at the expiration of the four event. The work was begun in 1824 [sic. years the canal be sold, unless, for good 1828], Mr. Renner has kept a diary which cause shown, the court should extend the contains a complete record of all the breaks time. At the end of three years the which have occurred in the canal, high bondholders of 1844 applied to Judge Stake waters, dams built and everything of for an extension of time, nad he in his importance concerning the old waterway. decision extended the time for six years, or ten years altogether. 3/12/96, p. 3. The water has been turned into the C. & O. canal, and the first boat 7/23/96, p. 3. President Nicholson of the pulled out from Williamsport for Chesapeake & Ohio canal is reported as Cumberland on Tuesday. Loading will having spoken of a scheme by which it is begin at Cumberland next Monday. The proposed to build boats at Cumberland that

116 would carry coal not only to Georgetown, D. persons in this community who will breathe C., but to Baltimore, Philadelphia and New easier, now that he is dead. York ports. In order to consummate this the boats will be changed. Instead of having a 8/13/96, p. 3. Rachel Chambers, of flat bottom and flat hatches like the present Cleveland, Ohio, niece of Capt. Geo. Burns, canal boat, the bottom will be round and the of the canal boat C. E. Ways, was drowned hatches arch shaped, like the lake boats. in the C. & O. canal near Dam No. 4 on Sunday last. The good people of Williamsport are trying to prevent profanity on the streets. No use - 8.20/96, p. 3. Charles Onderdonk, of you can't stop cussin' in a canal town. Sharpsburg, a boatman on the C. & O. canal, was overcome by the heat while boating last 7/30/96, p. 3. The big break on the Fourteen week and had to be removed from his boat mile level of the C. & O. canal at Ernstville, to his home. "Tudin," as he is familiarly was repaired Monday. A large force of known, was a former resident of hands were kept at work day and night since Shepherdstown. the bank went out filling in the gap. Tuesday morning the first boats passed that 9/10/96, p. 3. Saturday morning last about point and navigation has been resumed. five o'clock, John W. Patton, captain of the canal boat, John H. Wilson, fell from the 8/6/96, p. 3. A survey is now being made of boat into the basin near Cushwa's warehouse the whole line of the C. and O. canal under in Williamsport, and was drowned. the direction of Superintendent Nicholson. The surveyors started in Georgetown and are 9/24/96, p. 3. Mr. and Mrs. Newton James, going up the line. The survey is to ascertain of Sharpsburg, were running a boat on the the exact extent of the canal property. canal and their little child was taken sick. They left their boat at Orleans and took train 8/6/96, p. 3. Drowned in the Canal. for home. In coming from Keedysville their William Howard, a colored man child died in its father's arms. from Shepherdstown, was drowned in the Chesapeake & Ohio canal last Sunday night. 9/24/96, p. 3. Patrick Fahey of the canal He was boating for Mr. George Sanbower, steam-boat N. C. Read, was brutally and was steering the boat. Mr. Sanbower assaulted Saturday near Hancock, by a was driving the team, when the boat ran into colored hand on the boat named Phoenix, the bank. He then discovered that Howard who hails from Clear Spring district, was missing, and thought perhaps he had Washington county. Fahey's condition was deserted, but later events made it probable regarded as critical, but he has begun to that he went to sleep and fell overboard. improve. He was badly beaten on the head. Next day Mr. Edward Arthur, also fo Phoenix escaped but was pursued by four Shepherdstown, discovered the body of boatmen, with Winchester rifles, and Howard floating in the canal on the Seneca brought back to the boat with a rope around level. He notified the company hands, who his neck. He was placed in the Hancock recovered the body and buried it along the lockup. canal. Howard was about 25 years old, and bore a bad reputation. There are some 10/8/96, p. 3. The flood of last week did comparatively little damage to the C. & O.

117 canal. There was a small break at Dam No. and the fish have been scooped up by 4, a couple of little ones on the fourteen- hundreds. It is stated that the wholesale mile level, and minor damage at other destruction will not be permitted hereafter. points. It is thought the repairs can be Dr. George W. Massamore, deputy finished this week. game warden, has spent a week along the river, arranging a plan to save these fish. He An Editor Married. found ready co-operation from the fishing Mr. George W. McCardell, editor of clubs and residents along the stream. A the Williamsport Leader and collector for valuable ally was found in Col. G. L. the C. & O. canal at that place, and Miss Nicholson, superintendent of the canal, who Annie M. Ryan, one of Shepherdstown's has issued an order to all lock-tenders and most respected young ladies, were quietly other canal employees instructing them to married Tuesday morning at 11:30 o'clock prohibit the fishing of the canal by any in St. Mary's Catholic Church, Hagerstown, persons except the employees of the Game Rev. S. Rabbia officiating. The ceremony and Fish Protective Association, who will was performed in the presence of a few secure the bass in the pools and deposit them relatives and friends of the couple. The ring in the river to increase and multiply. service was used. The bride was attired in a The part of the canal which the pretty dress of changeable cloth, with hat association will fish as soon as the water is and gloves to match. There were no drawn off extends from Little Falls, just attendants. The couple received above Washington, to a point above congratulations at the church and then went Hancock. The fishing will be done by hand to the residence of Mr. H. A. Downin, where seines, a seine 20 feet long by 5 feet deep a dinner was served in honor of the newly being used in the shallow pools, and one married couple. Mr. and Mrs. McCardell about 100 feet long by 5 feet deep in the left on the fast mail for a trip to Washington larger pools. It is estimated that it will take and Baltimore. Upon their return to six men to work the big seines and three to Williamsport, which will be their future work the smaller ones. home, a reception will be held at the groom's The waters to be fished extend over home. We extend hearty congratulations to sixty miles, and it is estimated that it will the happy couple, and wish for them a long require about two weeks to complete the and prosperous married life. work. The bass of all sizes will at once be thrown into the Potomac proper. The 10/15/96, p. 3. To Save the Bass. catfish, suckers and large carp will be sold. The Game and Fish Protective The small carp will be killed, as these fish Association of Maryland is perfecting plans are not desirable, they being destructive to by which it is believed the Potomac river the other fishes. It is expected that by will become one of the best streams for bass carrying out this work the Potomac will in a fishing in the United States. Early each few years will be the best bass stream in December the water is drawn off the America. Chesapeake and Ohio canal, which runs The last Maryland Legislature passed parallel with the river. When the water is a good law to protect the fish in the river drawn off there are numerous deep and from other than sportsman methods of shallow pools left. In these the gamy black taking them. Virginia has passed a similar bass, big and little, take refuge. It has been law, and the West Virginia Legislature, the custom to allow anyone to fish the pools, which will convene this fall, will, it is said,

118 pass a similar law. All three laws will season just closed aggregated 363,957 tons, become operative on the same date. of which 258,198 tons went to Georgetown, 101,415 tons to Williamsport, 2,024 tons to 10/29/96, p. 3. Mr. C. Frank Cushwa, of Hancock and 648 tons to Shepherdstown. Williamsport, Md., a son of Mr. Victor The remainder went to a dozen different Cushwa, and Miss. Mary Gertrude Spohn, of points. The Consolidation Coal Company Shepherdstown, daughter of Mr. Milford shipped 282,465 tons and the George's Spohn, of Washington, were married Creek Coal and Iron Company the yesterday at noon at the cathedral in remainder. The total shipment is an increase Baltimore, Rev. Wm. H. Reardon, of 51,183 tons over 1895. chancellor of the archdiocese of Baltimore, officiating. The wedding party left 1/7/97, p. 3. Rescuing the Bass. Washington at 11 o'clock, and reached Dr. George W. Massamore, secretary Baltimore at the time appointed for the of the Maryland Game and Fish Protective wedding. There were no attendants, and Association, began the work of seining the only a few relatives and friends of the young canal on Monday. As heretofore explained couple witnessed the ceremony. The bride in the Register, the intention is to seine the wore a pretty blue silk serge dress with C. & O. canal, taking from it all the fish that white satin front and chiffon trimming and a usually are left there when the water is hat to match. The groom wore a black drawn off. The bass and the fish they use cutaway coat and neat striped trousers. A for food will be placed in the river, while the wedding breakfast was served at Hotel carp will all be destroyed. Eight gangs of Stafford, after which Mr. and Mrs. Cushwa men are to do the work. Dr. Massamore, left for a tour to Washington and with a squad of men, began this work on Philadelphia. They will return to and reside Monday at Harpers Ferry. The first day in Williamsport. We wish them much about 5,000 fish were put into the Potomac. happiness. These included 500 bass, ranging from 3 to 14 inches in length. The other fish were 11/12/96, p. 3. Albert Young, a boatman, minnows, chubs, shiners, white perch, a few was drowned in the Chesapeake and Ohio catfish, but no carp. White perch are canal, Monday evening, at Seneca lock. becoming very plentiful. The second day While entering the lock Young was standing excellent work was done. About 1,100 bass near the side of his boat, which gave a were caught, some of which weighed five sudden jerk and threw him overboard, and pounds each. Many big carp, weighting although every effort was made to save him, from three to six pounds, were taken, and the unfortunate man could not be rescued. there was great scrambling as they were He was twenty three years of age and thrown on the banks of the canal to the resided at Point of Rocks. crowd. Every looker-on went home laden down with carp, catfish and suckers, and the 12/24/96, p. 3. Water has been shut off from boys had a great time grabbing for eels. It is the feeders of the C. & O. canal and the impossible to estimate the number of food water is now being drawn from the levels. fish for bass that were put into the river, but The seining for bass and other fish, twenty thousand would be a low estimate. heretofore referred to, will not begin, The banner haul was made in a deep pool a probably, before Saturday. The total mile above Harpers Ferry, where 400 bass shipments of coal by the canal during the were caught. It is noticed that no small carp

119 are being caught. All that are taken are large general superintendent of the work, was ones, and this leads fishermen to hope that very severely injured while running to catch the carp do not breed in these waters and a train at Harpers Ferry. He fell over an will in time become extinct. embankment, which he did not see in the The seining party passed dark, and badly strained his left arm and left Shepherdstown yesterday, stopping here for leg. He is confined to his bed, but his a short time. They reported that the interest in the bass saving has not been in movement was meeting with the greatest any degree lessened. As soon as the thaw success, and that thousands of bass have comes the work will be again commenced been caught and placed in the Potomac. and rapidly pushed to completion. The Tuesday and Wednesday were big days. At Woodmont Club is ready with a party to Wade's Level, below Shepherdstown, 600 start in as soon as the weather permits. bass were caught, and a short distance below United States Fish Commissioner Brice has Shepherdstown in one haul they got 300 notified the gentlemen in charge of the bass from three to fifteen inches in length. seining that he will assign additional men to Several other hauls at the same place were the work when it is again started. almost equally fruitful. Enormous quantities of other fish are also being caught, the 1/21/97, p. 3. Death of David Billmyer. seiners report, and the people who follow Mr. David Billmyer, one of the most them up get all the suckers, catfish, carp, prominent citizens of Shepherdstown, died eels, etc., that they can carry. One at this home in this place Wednesday requirement is that the heads of the carp be morning at a quarter past four o'clock. He cut off immediately. No seining was done was surrounded by his family when he died. immediately opposite this place, as the water Mr. Billmyer had been in feeble health for a is shallow and there are no holes where the couple of years past, and had been unable to fish congregate. The canal is frozen over leave the house. About six weeks ago he pretty stiff this morning, and operations will became much worse, and it was thought then have to stop for the present. that he would not survive. He rallied, The seiners expect to reap a rich however, and the crisis passed. He had harvest at the fourteen mile level near Cedar taken no food since that time except liquid Grove. This is one of the finest pools to refreshment, and it was known that he was seine along the stream. It goes under the rapidly failing. Tuesday night it was seen name of "Dellinger's Wide Water." For that the end was near, and early yesterday many years it has been seined by a company morning he quietly breathed his last. His of farmers and others in that vicinity, and death was caused by the accumulated often as many as twenty bushels of fish of infirmities of old age. all kinds have been taken out of the pool Davis Billmyer was the son of after the water has been drawn off of the Martin Billmyer, and came of a family canal. People go for miles around to see the prominent in this section for many years. work accomplished. He was born at the family homestead; the old stone house on the farm of Mr. W. N. 1/14/97, p. 3. The Seiners. Lemen at Billmyer's Mill, three miles west The cold weather the past week froze of town, on November 16, 1811, and was, up the C. & O. canal and stopped the therefore, in the 86th year of his age. He is operations of the seiners. Dr. Massamore, the last survivor of thirteen brothers and one of the fathers of the scheme and the sisters. For many years Mr. Billmyer was

120 one of the most active business men in this who survives him, together with six sons section. He was in the grain business here and one daughter: Wm. H.; Edward E.; for nearly a half century, and before the days Frank L.; George W.; J. Davis and John R. of the railroad controlled the wheat and corn Billmyer, and Miss Ellen Billmyer - all of trade here almost entirely. He shipped by whom reside here. the Chesapeake & Ohio canal to The funeral service will be held Georgetown, and made a great deal of Friday morning in the Episcopal Church in money in this business. He also conducted a this place at 11 o'clock, and the body will be large store here for many years, and was the buried in Elmwood Cemetery. principal owner of the bridge across the Potomac river here and of the warehouse 2/11/97, p. 3. The owners of the real estate and wharf adjoining. When the Jefferson composing the village of Bridgeport, Savings Bank was organized in 1869 Mr. opposite Shepherdstown, will sell the four Billmyer was chosen as its president, and he houses and the 10-acre lot of ground at held that position until a few years ago, public sale on Saturday, February 27th. when failing health compelled him to give This property is valuable, and is worthy the up active business. As a mark of courtesy, attention of buyers. The large dwelling is he was annually elected a director of the particularly well suited for a club-house or bank until his death. Mr. Billmyer sportsmen's headquarters, and could be represented Jefferson county in the West made to pay a handsome revenue. See Virginia Legislature for several terms in the advertisement in another column for early history of our State. He was a description of the property. [Transcriber's Republican in politics, but was not a strong Note: The advertisement follows on the next partisan. page. It was run weekly until the sale. This Mr. Billmyer was a man of most advertisement was a good inventory of the exemplary character, and he always wielded town.] a strong influence in this community. His business judgment was regarded as 2/25/97, p. 3. Flood in the Potomac. thoroughly good, and he was possessed of a The Potomac river has been a raging cool, unruffled disposition that seldom led torrent this week - far out of its banks and him into error. His advice was largely sweeping everything that its angry waters sought and his counsel usually followed. reached. Last Saturday evening a wet, His name will always stand here as a heavy snow fell, which later turned into hail synonym of integrity and ability. and rain. Sunday night there was a very The deceased was one of the heavy rain again, and Monday desultory wealthiest of our citizens, and one of the showers during the day culminated at night largest land owners in the county. He held in a thunder storm, with sharp lightning and between 1,200 and 1,400 acres of land in the deep-toned thunder, accompanied by vicinity, including several of the most another big rain. The river began to raise desirable farms here. He also owned some Monday, and Tuesday it had reached flood of the most valuable town property. tide. Fed by the melting snow away back in Mr. Billmyer was twice married. His the mountains, the river continued to rise first wife was Miss Eliza Shepherd. One slowly but surely until about three o'clock son, David, was born to them, who was Wednesday morning, when the water drowned in the Potomac river. His second reached its highest point, after which it wife was Miss Ellen Spong, of Maryland,

121 gradually began to recede. At Shepherdstown the water was about eleven feet lower than it was during the memorable flood of 1889. The approach to the foot bridge was cut off by the water, which reached to the south end of the old paper mill. There was no damage on this side of the river. At Bridgeport the lock-house of the C. & O. canal was partly submerged, the first floor being under water. Mr. John James, the lock-tender, removed his family Tuesday morning and put the household goods upstairs. All the out-buildings were carried away by the water. The feed-store of Messrs. Knode was flooded, but it remained upon its foundations. The contents of the lower floor were removed before the water reached them. The canal boats at Bridgeport were closely watched and kept in safe quarters. The water kept up very high all day yesterday, but this morning it has gone down a great deal. ------It is quite apparent that much damage has been done to the canal, but what the extent of the injury is cannot be told until the water recedes in the river and the canal is emptied. It is certain, however, that the towpath has been washed in many places to a considerable extent and that much earth and sand has been deposited in the bed of the canal. So far no heavy breaks or washouts have been reported.

3/4/97, p. 2. Protecting the Bass. There will be no fishing for bass in the Potomac river and its tributaries hereafter above the Little Falls between April 15 and June 1 of each year, and the fish cannot be taken at any time other than by means of a hook and line or a dip net. The use of the trot or out-line, by which the fish supply in the upper Potomac has been almost decimated in the past, will be also illegal hereafter. The penalty of breaking

122 any of these regulations will be fish, which are also enumerated in the imprisonment for not more than six months prohibitive clauses of the bill, of perfect or a fine of not exceeding $100, or both fine protection from the forays of pot-fishers, and imprisonment. This applaudable result which have been so constant in the past, and is due to the recently organized District of will especially protect them during the Columbia Game and Fish Protective spawning season, from April 15 to June1. Association, of which Commander Robley Mr. George L. Nicolson, the manager of the D. Evans of the navy is president, and whose Chesapeake and Ohio canal, who is a membership comprises the leading zealous sportsman and always eager to help gentleman sportsmen in Washington as well anything that will seek to promote sport in as in the surrounding States. its proper sense, will have all the canal When the association was formed, walkers of the system under his control the States of Virginia and Maryland had appointed deputy game wardens at a very already passed laws containing the early date, and, as these wide-awake, alert provisions enumerated in the opening lines men virtually patrol the Potomac from of the article. To become operative, Washington to its source, the persons who however, it was necessary for West Virginia have heretofore kept up predatory warfare to adopt the same law. on the game fish in its waters will be The executive committee of the local compelled to give up their business. association, which consists of fifteen well- Heretofore it has been impossible for the known sportsmen, took immediate steps to State authorities of Maryland and Virginia secure the requisite action by the legislature and West Virginia to stop the lawbreakers in of West Virginia, and delegated Dr. Geo. W. the river, because when approached by the Massamore, a member of the association, officers of one State they would seek the the chief deputy game warden of Maryland, shore of the State opposite and evade arrest. and the secretary and treasurer of the Under the new law, however, they will have Maryland State game and Fish Protective no chance to continue this system. Association, to proceed to Charleston and Immediate steps will now be taken to urge the passage of the bill. Dr. Massamore have Congress pass a law similar to the one was courteously provided with strong letters described, extending the protections from to members of the West Virginia Legislature Little Falls, where the District begins, to the by Senators Elkins, Faulkner, Gorman and east line of the District, below Alexandria. other influential gentlemen, and when he reached the West Virginia capital he found The real estate at Bridgeport was not the bill sleeping in a senate committee. He sold at public sale last Saturday as was received with pleasant welcome by the advertised. The bids received were not legislators, and out of courtesy to him the satisfactory to the owner and the property bill was taken up out of its regular order and was withdrawn. quickly passed through both houses. Dr. Massamore had an interview with Gov. The Canal Not Damaged Much. McCorkle, who is an ardent sportsman, and It has become apparent since the it is regarded as certain that he will sign the waters of the Potomac river have receded bill. that the flood last week did not do a great The effects of this measure cannot be deal of damage to the Chesapeake & Ohio overestimated. It will mean the placing canal. In the vicinity of Shepherdstown around the bass and all varieties of game there was comparatively little injury,

123 although the water was entirely over the 3/11/97, p. 3. The work of repairing the banks in many places. The towpath was Chesapeake and Ohio canal is going on in washed some, a few small sandbars were earnest, and with the large force of men now formed in the bed of the canal, and in at work at various points along the several places considerable drift and other waterway, the canal is expected to be in debris was deposited - nothing, however, shape for navigation by the forepart of next that will be difficult to repair. We see no month. The locks, dams, waste weirs and reason why water may not be turned in by other valuable property escaped harm, and the 1st of April. General Manager G. L. the most serious injury was the washing Nicholson has made a tour of inspection and away of the banks. The cost of the has submitted the following report: improvements will amount to somewhere "The canal from Washington to between $25,000 and $40,000. Harpers Ferry is very slightly damaged. There is a small breach near Harpers Ferry, Corporation Elections - The Town Goes Dry. and from Harpers Ferry dam to Williamsport The corporation election of last there are two small breaches and some Monday in Shepherdstown was one of the surface wash on the towpath. From most quiet we have ever known. The total Williamsport to Hancock the damage is very vote cast was but 192, a large number of light, and from Hancock to dam No. 6 there persons having failed to pay their poll-tax, a is one small breach and about a mile and a- requirement necessary before the right of half of towpath badly washed. Dam No. 6 is suffrage could be exerted. not injured, but there is a wash around the The vote for license was 77 and the West Virginia guard wall. From dam No. 6 vote against license 110 - a comfortable to Cumberland there are three small majority of 33 for the "drys." breaches, and some of the towpath is washed on the surface. There has been no injury to 3/18/97, p. 3. The United States Fish locks, waste weirs or dams. The points most commission, which has become interested in seriously damaged by previous floods were the work of seining the C. & O. canal not injured by this freshet. In twenty-five originally undertaken by Dr. Massamore, working days, with good weather, we will commenced seining the canal at Little Falls, be ready to turn on the water for spring above Washington. The force has been navigation. Work has already commenced.' enlarged and the work will be pushed until the thousands of fish that during the flood 3/11/97, p. 3. General Manager G. L. left the river for the canal have been Nicholson and Division Superintendent transferred back into the main stream. Henry Bergen, of the C. & O. Canal, were in town this morning. They are pushing repairs 3/25/97, p. 3. Canal Affairs. as fast as possible and say that the canal will It is announced that the Chesapeake be ready for navigation by the first of next & Ohio canal will be opened for navigation month. the first of April. A meeting of boatmen and A number of fish - including many coal dealers was held at Williamsport bass - that were left in the canal by the flood Tuesday night, when the boatmen protested have been caught during the past week. against the proposed reduction in freight. Samuel Muck caught a carp a few days ago They were told that it was a question that weighed 25 pounds. whether the dealers are to take contracts and receive coal by canal or railroad. The dealers said they could not possibly pay

124 more than 30 cents a ton fright on coal from almost finished now. No agreement has Cumberland to Williamsport. been made yet in regard to freight rates. It is stated that the pay of boat There is a report to the effect that Fred employees will be reduced as follows: Mertens, of Cumberland, predicts a Steersmen from $16 per month to $12; and prosperous boating season and that the drivers from $14 to $10 per month. through freight will be 75 cents and trippage Trimmings on boats at Cumberland will also 18 cents. He expects to have all the business be reduced, and it is hoped that by these he can do. The report was set afloat by a reductions it will be possible for boatmen to Cumberland man at Williamsport. It further make both ends meet. The canal company states that Mr. Mertens will this year handle will make reductions in the salaries of their the celebrated Black, Sheridan & Wilson employees all along the line to meet existing coal, which heretofore has been shipped rates. exclusively by rail. The shipment of this It is probable that the boatmen will firm's coal will be extensive and greatly be persuaded to accept the starvation rates increase the transportation on the canal. H. offered, but we believe they would be wiser C. Winship, Georgetown, is also quoted as to refuse. If they decline to use their own saying that he will pay 70 cents freight to boats or run the coal companies' boats there Georgetown and make the boat trippage $15 will be no business to speak of on the canal. for any sized cargo. Williamsport boatmen If there is any material falling off in believe that the local shippers will fall into revenues the canal will not pay expenses. line, and that they will get the old 35 cent When it fails to pay expenses the courts will rate. take hold of it. We believe there will speedily be brought to bear sufficient 4/8/97, p. 3. Wants the Canal Sold. influence to prevent this state of affairs. In Hagerstown last Friday a bill was If the canal cannot provide the filed in the circuit court for the sale of the modest living required by the boatmen, then Chesapeake and Ohio canal, by Ellen S. the best thing is to turn it into a railroad - Stubblefield, administrator of George S. and the quicker the better. Stubblefield, deceased. George S. Stubblefield, in 1868, recovered a judgment 4/1/97, p. 3. The owners of the Bridgeport against the canal company for $32,798.83. property have sold to Messrs. Charles and It is to enforce this judgment that the bill is Otho Kretzer the two small houses at that filed. place now occupied by them. The price paid The bill asks that a decree be passed was $700. Mr. John Entler has moved into annulling so much of the decree passed in the large frame house at Bridgeport. the consolidated equity cases on October 2, 1890, as suspending the operation of the 4/1/97, p. 3. Canal Affairs. decree of sale, and also that the order of Announcement is made that the court in the cases passed on July 30, 1894, canal will be open for navigation by April by Judge Edward Stake, extending the time 10th. About three feet of water has been of suspension of the original decree of sale turned into this division to float scows for six years from May 1, 1895, may be carrying material for repairs. reviewed, and that a decree for the sale of Superintendent Henry C. Burgan has the canal and all its works be passed to completed the repairs on the one-mile level satisfy the liens thereon. opposite Shepherdstown and has his section

125 The bill alleges that the Baltimore before. No new boats have been built, and and Ohio Railroad Company has been several old ones have been laid on the bank. enabled through cunningly devised chancery proceedings and the imposition on the court 6/3/97, p. 3. Collector T. N. McAboy and of equity to operate the waterway as a Paymaster J. Graham Pearre, of the C. & O. common carrier, as well as its railway, and canal, who were on a bicycling tour, were has thus been able indirectly to do what among the guests of the Entler Hotel the past under its charter it could not legally do week. directly. The bill further states that the recent 6/8/97, p. 3. Canal Boat Sunk. freshet has caused damage amounting to The canal boat Fannie Flanagan, of between $75,000 and $100,000 to the canal. Harpers Ferry, ran on a rock in Big Slack A history of the canal and the multiplicity of Water, on Saturday, knocking a hole in the litigation is gone over at length. The bill bottom. The boat filled with water and charges that the conditions imposed by sank.. Navigation was stopped until the Judge Alvey's decree have been violated. sunken craft was raised by the canal hands. The boat belongs to Mr. Stouffer, of On the Canal. Maryland, and it was used for hauling Water has been turned into the C. & railroad ties. It was formerly owned by O. canal and boatmen are moving on to Messrs. James and John Flanagan, of Cumberland, where, it is said, loading will Bakerton, but they have recently purchased be commenced next Monday. Some of our a fine new boat from Mertens, Cumberland, local boatmen pulled out this week. It is which they are using in their stone business. stated that the through rate will be just about what it was last year. If there is a slight 7/29, 97, p. 3. The dam across the Potomac reduction in the rate, it will be offset by at Harpers Ferry, which was damaged by the reducing the trippage. spring freshets is being repaired. It is The big washout around the West authoritatively stated that the Norfolk & Virginia shore of Dam No. 6 was stopped up Western Railway will take steps to have the last Saturday, when cribs were gotten in dam at the cement mill put in good order as position. It was an enormous hole, through the low water is causing the piers of their which the entire river passed. The water is bridge to be seriously weakened. now turned back and is flowing over the dam again. A solid stone wing-wall will be 8/12/97, p. 3. We learn that an advance of built to prevent a recurrence of the trouble. five cents a ton has been granted the boatmen on the C. & O. canal for hauling 4/15/97, p. 3. On the Raging Canal. coal to Georgetown. Several canal boats were loaded at Cumberland last Saturday for Williamsport, 10/14/97, p. 3. Some of the C. & O. and Monday boats were loaded for boatmen turned an honest penny at Georgetown. The repairs have been Washington by hiring their mule teams to completed all along the line, and the canal is pull street cars. The burning of the power- said to be in excellent condition. It is house compels the hauling of the cars on believed that there will be a smaller number Pennsylvania and Fourteenth street by horse of boats on the canal this year than ever and mule power.

126 11/4/97, p. 3. The body of Mrs. Laura of themselves. We suggest this new variety Lapole was found floating in the canal at be called the scholar fish. Cumberland last week. The woman was the wife of George Lapole, a boatman, who is 12/9/97, p. 3. The work of seining the now serving a three years' sentence in the Chesapeake and Ohio canal will be penitentiary for the murder of an old man on undertaken this month by Captain Brice, the towpath near Sandy Hook, over two United States fish commissioner, with the years ago. Mrs. Lapole had since been assistance of the game associations, to save running the boat with the assistance of her the young bass. grown children, Lucy and Thomas. She was about forty-five years of age. Jesse Engle, a 12/16.97, p. 3. Business was very poor on boatman who found the body, said that he the C. & O. canal this year, the shipments had seen the woman drinking, and the being 100,000 tons less than last year. probability is that while drunk she was Better to turn the old ditch into a railroad. It struck by someone in Shanty town and is a failure as a waterway. thrown into the canal, or she may have fallen from a boat while intoxicated. She 12/23/97, p. 3. The water has been drawn was buried in a pauper's grave. from the Chesapeake & Ohio canal and navigation closed for the season. Dr. 11/15/97, p. 3. One day last week a horse Massamore, secretary of the Maryland Fish belonging to Mr. George W. Knode ran a and Game Protective Association, was nail in its foot and lockjaw resulted. Last notified by the U. S. Fish Commissioner Sunday the animal probably made frantic by Brice that the work of seining the canal for pain, burst out of the barn-yard and jumped bass would begin yesterday at Little Falls. into the canal. It plunged around in the The work will be done under the supervision water until it drowned itself. of Capt. L. G. Harron, and the party will work westward. The bass and other game 11/25/97, p. 3. Fish Story. fish will be placed in the Potomac. The Mr. Thomas Kerfoot, who is the catfish and suckers will be given away, and tender at Lock 38 on the C. & O. canal some the carp will be killed. miles above Shepherdstown, caught a remarkable fish in the fish-pot at that place 1/20/98, p. 3. Paymaster J. Graham Pearre, some days ago. The fish is 19 inches long of the C. & O. canal, was in town yesterday. and weighs 2¾ pounds. In shape it takes He is paying off the canal employees this after a mackerel, and has a big mouth, with week. long shrap teeth. The most remarkable thing about the fish, however, is a row of figures 1/27/98, p. 3. Mr. G. L. Nicholson, and letters along each side of its backbone. superintendent of the C. & O. canal, spent On one side in a vivid scarlet are the figures Tuesday night in the Entler Hotel in from 1 to 9, and on the other are the letters Shepherdstown. He is making a tour of A, Q, R and Y. Mr. Kerfoot has the fish in a inspection, and on Tuesday rode forty miles live-box and can show it to anybody who on horseback in the rain and sleet that fell doubts this story. nearly all day. We have often heard of fish being seen in schools, but this is the first time we have ever heard of them making blackboards

127 3/17/98, p. 3. The Town Goes Dry Again. Boating on the Chesapeake and Ohio At the normal corporation election Canal has improved a little. A contract for on Monday all the old incumbents of the 40,000 tons of coal to be delivered to the present town council were again chosen to Washington navy yard has given an impetus fill their respective offices for another year. to the canal trade. On the question of license or no license to sell liquor the drys won by 20 7/21/98, p. 3. A canal boat run by Mrs. majority. There were 95 votes for license Stevens and her sons, of this place, was sunk and 115 against license. So the town will be the other day on the log-wall level, near without open saloons for at least one more Georgetown. It was loaded, and there will year. [Transcriber's Note: That meant that probably be considerable difficulty in the citizens had to go to Bridgeport, Md. to raising it. patronize a saloon there.] 8/4/98, p. 3. Just Like Santiago's Channel. 3/17/98, p. 3. General Manager G. L. The canal boat C. E. Ways, Capt. Nicholson has given notice that the Charles Shafer, sank in the canal just after it Chesapeake and Ohio canal will be open for got out of the lock opposite Shepherdstown loading boats at Cumberland on March 28th. last Saturday afternoon. The boat was very Empty boats tied up along the canal will heavily loaded, and in coming out of the begin moving up to Cumberland as soon as lock a mile above town it struck a rock, there is water enough in the canal. which knocked a hole in its bottom. By the time it got to Bridgeport it was ready to sink, 4/7/98, p. 3. Mr. Lewis G. Stanhope died at and barely got out of the lock when it settled his home near Hagerstown Tuesday, of on the bottom of the canal. Its cargo of coal paralysis, aged 79 years. Mr. Stanhope was was laboriously unloaded by a gang of men for twenty-seven years superintendent of the with wheelbarrows, the hole was patched up, Chesapeake & Ohio canal, and was one of the coal reloaded, and Tuesday the vessel the bosses when it was constructed. As put on full mule power and started for contractor he built Dam No. 4, above Georgetown. A number of boats were Shepherdstown, a splendid piece of work, delayed by the blockade of the channel, and and also constructed Dam No. 5. having no desire whatever to know how Admiral Cervera felt at Santiago, their crews 5/5/98, p. 3. It is stated that the war is used language utterly unfit for publication. having a depressing effect on business on the C. & O. canal. There has been a falling 8/18/98, p. 3. A large party of young folks off in coal shipments of late, and the came up from Point of Rocks last Tuesday boatmen, it is said, are making a bare living. to Shepherdstown on the excursion boat Better close up the old ditch and turn it into "Merrimac," and they had a jolly time on a railroad. their novel voyage upon the tempestuous waters of the canal. They took in the sights 5/19/98, p. 3. Application has been made of Shepherdstown Tuesday morning. for the pardon of George W. Leopold, a canal boat captain, who was sentenced to the 8/25/98, p. 3. Messrs. W. N. Lemen and G. Maryland penitentiary for three years for T. Hodges each received a boat load of killing a man near Harpers Ferry. fertilizer from Alexandria by way of the canal this week. The prices are higher this

128 year than last - one effect of "prosperity" on average haul ten tons more of coal than that is not at all agreeable to the farmers. ever.

11/10/98, p. 3. Mr. John James, the lock- 3/23/99, p. 3. There is a rumor in Baltimore tender at Bridgeport; on the C. & O. canal, that the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad is trying opposite Shepherdstown, died Tuesday to buy the interest of the State of Maryland morning, in the 57th year of his age. He had in the Chesapeake & Ohio canal. It is been a partial invalid for several years, but further stated that the railroad company is had been confined to his bed only since last willing to greatly improve the canal and give Friday. Bright's disease is given as the it plenty of business. cause of his death. Mr. James was a native of Washington county, and used to be a 5/18/99, p. 3. Bad Break in the Canal. boatman on the canal. His wife survives A bad break occurred in the him, together with four sons and one Chesapeake and Ohio canal at the Ernstville daughter. The funeral takes place today store, near Cherry Run, Saturday morning, from the Sharpsburg Methodist Church. flooding the lowlands in that section and The remains will be buried in Antietam doing considerable damage. The break is National Cemetery, the deceased having about sixty feet in length and for one-third been a soldier in the Union army during the of that distance it extends ten feet below the civil war. bottom of the canal. A boat belonging to F. Mertens & Co., of Cumberland, and run by 2/23/99, p. 3. The ice on the Potomac river Samuel Kelly, was passing at the time the broke up yesterday, and today is passing break occurred and was washed down the down rapidly in a swift current. The river ravine into an open field, about 160 yards has been at its normal height all week until from the canal, where it was overturned. yesterday, when the warm sun melted the Persons on the boat escaped injury by snow at such a rate the stream began to jumping. The bow of the boat was heavily swell. Early this morning it began to rise damaged. The water in the level above the vary rapidly, and it is quite high at this break was drawn off and fifty men and about writing. It is not likely, though, to go twenty carts put to work to repair the beyond the danger mark. The ice is pretty damage. It is thought the repairs will take thoroughly broken up by the time it gets to about ten days for completion. The break is this point, and will be little more than slush said to have been the result of muskrats by the time it reaches Washington. The undermining the bank. canal was partly filled with water yesterday, a precaution taken to prevent possible 8/3/99, p. 3. The fourth annual excursion of damage by the flood in the river. the Point of Rocks boat party arrived here yesterday and spent the night in 3/16/99, p. 3. An official states that water Shepherdstown. Those who composed the will be let in the Chesapeake and Ohio party were Misses Mae Hickman, Zulu and Canal March 20, and boating will be Sada Nichols, Bess Knode and Mrs. Chas. resumed April 1. The banks are in fine E. Nichols., of Point of Rocks; Lou condition. Considerable woodwork was Trunnell, of Washington, D. C.; Misses renewed during the winter. Because of the Clara and Ada Mac Vicar, of Winchester, improved condition of the banks, boats can Va.; Messrs. G. Stuart Mercier, Sidney Hickman, Edward Fisher, W. T. Colbert and

129 Quincy Kearns, of Point of Rocks. The Shenandoah Junction we noted last week, party left the Point Tuesday morning for a was buried in Elmwood Cemetery on three day trip on the canal, visiting Monday. The funeral was delayed until his Shepherdstown, Sharpsburg and the mother gould get here. She was with her Antietam battlefield. The scenery along the boat on the canal, and did not hear of his route is particularly picturesque, and the gay death until Saturday. A coroner's inquest party thoroughly enjoyed their novel trip. was held by Magistrate D. S. Rentch. The There was no lack of amusement, and they jurors were W. P. Licklider, Henry S. Baker, were sorry the trip was not twice as long. Robert Gibson, T. B. Line, John H. Keesecker and geo. F. Turner. After hearing 9/7/99, p. 3. A Fatal Accident. the evidence, including that of the train Albert Stevens, aged about sixteen crew, a verdict of accidental death was years, son of Mrs. Susie M. Stevens and rendered, the railway company being grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Morgan, exonerated from blame. of Shepherdstown, met with a fatal accident Thursday morning at Shenandoah Junction. 10/12/99, p. 3. It is said a number of boats Young Stevens was going to Hancock, near on the C. & O. canal have been falling short which place he was to help tend lock on the in weight. The boatmen claim that the full canal. He boarded a Norfolk & Western load of coal is not put on when they start. A freight train at Shepherdstown, and went to detective went down on one boat and caught Shenandoah Junction. In attempting to jump it falling short two tons at one place. from the moving train there he was thrown under the cars and dreadfully hurt. One arm 12/14/99, p. 3. The Maryland Game and was crushed almost entirely off, and he had Fish Protective Association, with the a long and deep cut in the head, reaching to assistance of the United States Fish his temple, besides other injuries. He was Commissioner, will seine the C. & O. canal picked up and brought back to between now and the first of the year. All Shepherdstown on train 28, and carried to the bass and other game fish will be the home of his grandparents. Physicians immediately transferred to the Potomac here dressed his injuries, and Dr. Wareham, river, while the carp will be killed and given the railroad surgeon, was summoned from away. About a dozen men will do the work. Hagerstown. The condition of the Work is to be commenced today at unfortunate young man was so low it was Williamsport. not expedient to amputate the injured arm, and the operation was deferred. The same night, between ten and eleven o'clock, Albert died, having never rallied from the first shock. The funeral takes place on Friday. Mrs. Stevens, his mother, was away from home, being on her boat near Williamsport. The victim of the accident was an industrious and capable youth, and his sad death is greatly regretted.

9/14/99, p. 3. Young Albert Stevens, whose death as a result of an accident at

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