Documentary History of the State of New York, Vol. II
From this place boats of any size could be sent to Baltimore ; there being to this navigation no interruptions of consequence until we get below Wright's Ferry j from which place for Havre de Grace the State of Maryland is making great exertions to render the navigation safe and beneficial to the trade of Baltmore. The method which the gentlemen employed in this business has taken will, I have no doubt, be crowned with success. The obstructions are formed by bars of
♦ Of so much importance did these salt-works appear to the Government that, two years ago, they took the business entirely under their own direction, and appointed a Commissioner to superintend the salt-makers, and restricted the price to sixty cents per bushel, at which they are obliged, by their contract, tj supply the country.
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limestone rock, running across the river, from east to west, and the whole water of the river pours over them. In the dry seasons, the drift wood which collects on these ledges, is gathered and piled on the rocks, and burnt until they become quite heated : water is then thrown on them, when they immediately split into pieces : the rocks are then broke up and thrown into the pools below. These breaches are made one hundred yards in length, so as to allow rafts of any size to pass with safety. Large subscriptions have been made to carry on these works ; and there is no doubt but a few years perseverance will complete a safe navigation from the head of the Canisteo to Baltimore.