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"■<•:—• tlk J'tnih >• r ^0 •i,..rw \'^^t i^*. .. ■n?*!'*' '•.^7 hubcittt'"""" "_ »dK" l.flW -K. .^^ »-'' " "'f '" Futhovts. StatuteMiles Sr,i/>-.(>;,- .Vi7r MAP A3f n S K r T I O I?f o f Pr op o s ^ (f S/i iff^ffi tf r ^f f^'> ^'*f'' *"' ^ PROM HALiIFAXto BASIN of MlNB 8 byFranris Half, Civ il E lunni- f >: Jul.v 1825. 1-. o V K \ n K S /• r fio/f N'! I * 4'f(relwiilrrLhw'H'Htrr ^s. low \imY^. ■■"'\r L^lrl nidms House ^19 j v\ X^'^ J i^ ^ m w .^p Foil Ellin ,,.. ,/^ 11' f .JJlt '•■'■^•" . V I'. N w iS ,v /-/V/ /•• .- J^ 1 1, r of (' r r ^ -' nx^ ' J u -'W - TRMfTES' Fry;TreUNrrABELL, 105, BABRINOTOIf-STRtET. IB2 6, i / i^^ -.»^.«f-.i, 4*. ■:%-■_•, ..-?.-, ill M m REL RBMAR] -'■■■«— ill I [Hm a^smUm ST. PETER'S 1 ■IMMHAillli ijaiii!:HW. i fhW ^*A REPORTS AND PAPERS RELATING TO A CANAL, Kntf n^eti to (iConnect THE BARBOUR OF HALIFAX WITH T»E BASIN OF MINES ; RBMARKS Oir ITS NATUAE AND IMPORT AMOS, AND A IPILAH AMD SUS^Tl^F^ ALSO, IThe Uriuirt ot a Sttrtirs fov Canals BETWEEN ST. PETER'S BAY AND THE 13RAS D'OR LAKE, IN CAPE BRETON ; AKD The Bay of Fundy and Bay of Verte. fl M. HALIFAX, N. a rniNTED BY J. S, CUNNABELL, 105, BARRIIfOTOIf-STRRBT. 1828. » V Hi ^1 I i ? ) /> "■^;^;r*r*^".v'' "^ \ TO HIS EXCELLENCY LIEUT. GEN. SIR JAMES KEMPT, K. G. B. Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief of Nova-Scotia and its Dependencies, &:c. &c. SIR, THE Papers connected -with the Shubenaccadie Navigation being now Printed, I have the Honor of submitting them tn your Excellency — accompanied with some Notices respecting that useful Measure. For these permit me to solicit your favorable consideration. They are intended to explain its intimate connexion v;ith all the important Interests of the Prmince ;~whose general Prosperity a grateful and happy People recognise as the sole, object of your Mministration. The attention, you have constantly devoted to the Communi- cations of the Interior, affords full assurance that this Enterprise will receive your support and countenance. For the very impfrfect manner, in which its Results are examined, and illustrated in the following Pages, allozn} me to claim tjour Excellency's indulgence. I am with the greatest respect, Your Excellency's Most Obedient and Humble Servant, CHARLES R. FAIRBANKS. Halifax, 30th January, 1826. { I \ ri*' GEORGII IV. REGIS- CAP. a .'<- r An ACT to authorise the Incorpoi-atioil of a Company for making; a Canal by the River and Lakes of the Shube- naccadici (Assented to 3d Mauch, 1824.) BE it enacted by the Lieutenant-Governor, Council and Assimbly, That when- ever a sufficient number of persons shall hijve associated themselves together, for opening and making a Navigable Cut Canal, or Water Comraiinication, be- tween the Harbour of Halifax and the Bason of Mines, by, along, or near to* the course of the River Shubenaccadie, and the likes thereof, and j^all have agreed to raise sufficient monies to effect the same, it shall and may be lawful for the Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, or Commander in Chief for the time being, at any time within five years from the passing hereof, by Letters Patent^ under the Great Seal of this Province, to make, erect, and incorporate, all and singular the persons who, from time to time, shall be adventurers in, or parties to, the said undertaking, and their assigns, into one body politic and corporatej in deed and in name, under the title of — The Shubenaccadis Canal Com- fANv, and, by that name to have succession, to sue and to be sued, to have a common seal, and to possess and enjoy such powers with respect to the choice of a President and other Officers, making bye laws, and riegulating the affairs of the said Company, as shall be expressed in the same Letters Patent* H. And be it further enacted. That the said Company, when io Incorpo- rated, shall, and they ar© hereby declared and made capable in Law, to have, hold, purchase, receive, possess, enjoy, and retain, lands, rents, and tenements, to the amount of Fifty Thousand Pounds, and n© more at one time ; and also, monies, goods, chattels and effects, to the amount of Twenty-five Thousand Pounds, and no more, at any one time ; and also, to sell, grant, demise.^alien, of otherwise dispose of, such lands, tenements, rents, monies, goods, chattel", and effects, at their free will and pleasure. HI. And be it further enacted, That in such Letters Patent, the Rccessarj officers of such Corporation, shall be named and designated ; and proper 1 i h^ \ persons nppointed to be snch officers for the firsi year ; and that the .a.d CorponUion may make, establish, and put in execution, such laws and rcgula- t.ons as may be necessary for making such Canal and the works thereof, levy, ingthe assessments, and for the government of the said Corporation. pro'^.-^erf, the sameshall in no case be repugnant to the Laws of this Province. IV. And he it further enacted, That the Capital or Joint Stock of the said Corporation, shall he divided into such, and so many, shares or portions, as the 8«.rect, such locks, sluices dams' iTears,and embankments, in, over, across or upon, the course of the said nver. or along the sides thereof, or at or near to the several lakes op stream, connected therewith, as shall be considered necessary or proper for effecting Siichmland water communication; and at all such places or parts of the s-.id nver, lakes or stream,, and in such lines, courses and directions, from one part to another of the said river, lakes and streams, as the said Company shall deem ex- ped.,nt ; and further, to make, place and erect, such and so many lock gate, or doors, as shall be necessary in the line, course or direction, of such Canal or required .n the locks, dams or sluices thereof; and likewise to dig, excavate and deepen, the channels and courses of the said river, lakes and streams, whenever ■necessary, whether at the places of junction of the said lakes, river and stream,, respectively, or elsewhere in the course, channel or basons thereof; and more- pver to divert, turn.change or alter, the course,channeI and direction, of the river lake, or streams, aforesaid, wherever necessary ; and to make, dig and exc- rate, a channel, or course for the said nver, or the waters thereof, and to form the said Canal ^n any other manner, or different direction, between th. .»i^ l«i^e, mp,mv,ly. or between any one or more of the ssid lakes, and the .aid \ I rifer, or any pariiculitr part thereof, than the course or direction which the waters of the said river or outlets of the said lakes do now run in or follow — and furthermore to retnin, diirn up iiiid confine, the wjtters of the river, Lkes, and •treamJ aforesaid, in the naluiiil b;ison!, course?, or reservoirs thereof, or iti any other artificial basons or reservoirs, to be made I'y the said Corporation, and to lessen or reduce the actual surface, waters, or depths of such lakes, river, or streams, whenever necessary or proper, for the purposes of the said Canal or water communication — and generally to use and ap- propriate the waters of the said river, lakes, tind streams, and the chan- nels and water courees lliereoi", to anil for the use and benefit of, and for rendering effectual, navigable and useful, the said intended Canal or water communication from Halifax aforesaid, to the suid Bason of Mines. Vr. And be it further itiacted, That the paid Compnny shall have power and authority to make, o|)Gn anri complete, in all such places where the simc shall be thought necessary, in or iii)on the ?aid Canal, river and lakes, and the shores or banks thereof re«pectivf>ly, sur.h towing paths, walks or roads, as shall be found necctJsary op usi^.ul for the tracking or towing along the line of such Canal, river or lakes, the boat;*, barges or vessels, to be used or employ- ed thereupon ; and such towing-paths, walks or roads, with all necessary ap- pendages thereof, from time to time, to repair, amend, alter or susta n, as the said Corporation i W 1i I From thence proceeding down the Shubenaccadie River with a gentle exit* rent (estimating the descent at 8 inches per mile) to James Ellis's (about i tniles above Fort Ellis,) found at lovir water about 12 inches water over th« Flats. And here from the general information of the best informed inhabi- tants, middling tides rise from four to five feet* From which we infer that the only impediment to a four feet navigation, from this place np to the Falls below Nine Mile Brook, consists in the trees which have drifted and lodged in the River. From the lower end of the Falls below Nine Mile Brook, the navigation it proposed to be continued in the following manner ; — viz. From the lower end of the falls below Nine Mile Brook, into the uppef Shubenaccadie Lake^ 8 Locks, at £818, : £6544 4 Rubble Dams, at £130, ..... 520 4 do. ati^l52, . 608 Digging the Canals and Lock pits for 8 Locks, :. 43,304 cubic yards, at 7d 1263 8 rf ■■■ ■ ■■!■■■ £8935 6 From the upper Shubenaccadie Lake through the portage to the Dartmouth Lake, length 61^ chains. Digging the first 33 chains through the highest ground, 40.011 yards, at Cd 1500 8 3 Digging 28i chains to the Dartmouth Lake, including 3 lock pits, 19,369 yards, at 7d. 564 i8 7 3 Locks, 2454 *»m I ■■■!>■■■ .ii ■ I -1519 6 !0 £13,454 7 6 From the Dartmouth Lake down the Mill Brook to 6 feet below highwater mark. 9 Locks, ^735f Digging the Canals and Lockpits for 9 Locks 36,360 yards at 7d . 1060 10 & Rubble Dams, - . . . 650 A —— — — 9072 10 Pumps, Boats, Tackles, Sm: * S50 G Allowance for incidents, ' 1126 ♦£24,002 17 S The particular situation of the above works will appea^ by the plan here- with connected. The locks to be faced with Ashlar stone, set in Terras mortar and backed with Rubble in ^ood common mortar, and are calculated to chamber a vessel of 60 feet keel and 15 feet beam, drawing 4 feet water. •Add one third for unforeseen obstructions, accidenti, tmd the probable rise of w»sep. i't?. tce £8000 :===makBj! je?2^002 17 6, f k 'SI f ' 1.2 I gentle ctif* Ii9*s (about S ter over lh« rrnfed iiihabi- ni'er that the I Falls below nd lodged in navigation ii C8935 6 4519 6 to ■ ■■■■■..■^» III ■■» 3,454 7 e 9072 10 S50 G 1196 24,002 17 6 he plan here* et in Terras calculated to t water. obabl« rise o/ The bed of the Mill Bk'ook, and the ground adjoining, is covered with loose stones applicable for making the dams and inner parts of the lock walls ; and under these strong gravel may be expected. The track of the proposed Canal, through the portage, answers the same des- cription, except that a few of the stones may require blowing. The same description agrees with the Shuberiaccadie River down to the lake below M'Nabb's F»ridge : but, below that, the channel becomes less rocky, and, at the last falls below Nine Mile Brook, the bed q( the river is gravel and the banks loam. ISAAC aiLDRITH. Halifax, November 16, 1797. JVbte.— The annexed estimate has been founded on the present price of day labour, and masons and ^carpenters wages ; and on the presumption thst all the stone for the locks as well as the timber, may be found on the spot ; or at a small expense for cartage. M. W. * Labourers, 2i. 6d. p«r day — Masont, Ss. and 5s. 6d.— C&rpenttri, 4*. 64. aBdi«. • •i» H LSTTXSR Addressed by his Excellency Sir John Wentwortb, Late Gcvernor of the Provlnc* ; To the Gentlemen who^ upon the Report made by Messrs, Hildrith and Chamberlain^ proposed to form a Com- pany for making the Canal Halifax, Nova-Scotia, 16th July, 1708. Gentlemen, The House of Assembly, in their late Session, had under conaider^ipn |i petition of William Forsyth, Andrew Belcher and Richard Kidston, ^s^iref, praying for Legislative assistance, to erect a Canal navigation from this Har- bour, at Dartmouth, to the navigable water in the River Shubenaccadie ; and thereupon resolved to address me, requesting a patent might be issued toWAcd carrying into effect the purposes intended in the said petition. Being at all times desirous to promote the views of the House of Assembly, for the good of the Province, I shall give the necessary orders to expedite such patent, for the advice and consent of his Majesty's Coancil. For the better completing B ! i ■)' i. I ! It whereof, and effecting the good ends proposed, I shall name in the pat«nt eight Directors, and one Secretary and Cashier :—viz. William Forsvth, Esq. Chairman, Andrew Belcher, Es(i. Dep'y Chairman, ■ William Cochran, Esq. Lawrence Hartshorne, Esq. ^. Charles Hill, Esq. f J^trectors. RjcHAHi) .KiDSTON, Esq. ; John Bremner, Esq. Sabatier, Esq. and _, _ Michael, Wall ACE, Esq. Secretary and Cashier. The Chairman or Deputy Chairman presiding, to have a casting vote, in , case of an equality of votes, upon any measure. I am now to recommend that you would convene to consider and report to me, such terms and conditions as you may think expedient to be granted in the patent, that the best measures may be adopted. I am persuaded that the greatest benefits will be derived from carrying the plan into execution. To the Revenue and morals of the country, by making It the interest and convenience of numerous and increasing inhabitants to purchase of the fair trader, in, or through Halifax ; whence the frauds— lying— violences— and perjuries attendant on illicit commerce— will naturally vanish. To the commerce of the Province, by facilitatfng-rendering safe-and reducing the expense of all commodities and produce, upon that extensive fertile and productive country to which such a Canal, as is proposed, imme- diately communicates. Fuel and provisions, now too clear, would be plentiful- ly supplied at half the present prices ; and with better profit to those who sell. Timber for all the purposes of building-for public use, and for exportation- Hay, and other bulky articles, now immensely dear from its freight from counties, that have less to spare than those which would employ the propos- ed navigation, may then be plenty and at a moderate price in our markets. In fine, the benefits are so many~so obvious and so great, that I think they demand the best exertions, and will greatly reward the zeal of every friend to the Province. Upon such principles, my best services shall be faithfully ap- ■ph^d. As the most prominent proof whereof, I request you. Gentlemen to commence the trust. In your wisdom, public spirit, experience, and perse- vereuce, confiding such fair hopes of success, as precludes all apprehensions of disappointment or failure. 1 have the honour to be, v/ith great esteem and respect, Gentlemen, your Obedient Servant, r- ■vS J. V ^ NTWORTH. 18 In the put«nt SKEXN'SS'TISS OF A SURVEY MADE OF THE INTEffDED .CANAL, FROM FLETCHER's BRIDGE ON THE SHUBENAC- CADIE RIVER, THROUGH LAKES THOMAS, WILLIAM AND CHARLES, THENCE BY THE DARTMOUTH LAKES, AND MR. HARTSHORNE's MILL STREAM, INTO THE HARBOUR AT HALIFAX. ting vote, Id nd report to •anted in the carrying the ^ by making labitants to ids — lying — illy vanish. g safe — and it extensive osed, imme- be plentiful- se who sell. :portation — I'eight from the propos- jr markets. I think they ?y friend to lithfully ap- sntlemen, to and perse- hensions of RTH. I have carefully inspected and surveyed every probable site by which a Ca- nal or conveyance by water could be eiTecled, from Fletcher's Bridgeon the Shubenaccadie River, to Bedford Bason, or the Harbour of Halifax ; and am decidedly of opinion the latter track or site above-mentioned, has much the advantage, Having commenced my survey at Fletcher's Bridge, I measured the eleva- tion o.'the mill dam at said place, which was eight feet above the surface of the stream at the bottom ; 1 then proceeded up the River, (the passage of which in some parts is much impeded, with stones, &c.) but found the dam when filled to the elevation, of eight feet, would render it commodious beyond every difficulty that presents itself. Thence through Lake Thomas, spacious and navigable, to a Pass from Lake William ; which Pass is forty perches long and one wide in its narrowest parts, with a bottom somewhat stoney, and of small elevation. On inspection I found the water, when raised eight i'eet at Fletcher's mill dam, would reach this pass, and render it also navigable beyond all its apparent difficulties. Thence through Lake William, a beautiful and navigable sheet of water, to its source — a strong stream from Lake Charles. Here by inspection I found the elevation, at Fletcher's Bridge, had reached to, and ascended the stream for some distance. So that the small elevation of eight feet at Fletcher's Bridge, renders a distance of six miles and a quarter perfectly ^navigable. ''■••^' The Pass from Lake Charles into Lake William, I have not yet surveyed. It is now opening for that purpose ; but 1 have carefully inspected it, and find it of easy ascent ; it in no part exceeds an elevation of twelve degrees, and has the advantage of many ponds of still water. Its distance into Lake Charles is about one mile, and in all respects fully practicable j the stream affording sufficient water for its navigj»tion. Thence continued the survey of Lake Charles, extensive and beautiful, fully navigable for two miles to its greatest extremity. This lake is filled in great part from Lake Loon, a large lake situated on the Preston road ; its waters and consequently those of Lake Charles might be vastly increased from lakes ■5Rd streams adjacent. ^ u .1 ! I ( Theoce over land, by a rough but practicable way of not quite three qnarter* of a mile, into the Dnrf month Lakes. The level of this Pass I have not yet surveyed, but it is now open for that purpose. It no wbere exceeds an angle often degrees. The tinkling stream under the loose stones, as also its easy ascent and descent, shew it was once the Pass from Lake Charles into the Dartmouth Lakes. Thence through the Dartmouth Lakes, a distance of nearly two miles fully navigable : and so by Mr. Hartshorne's Mill stream into the Harbour at Halifax. This last Pass is hL«o fully practicable, and is amply supplied with water for that purpose. Thus on minute inspection of the above-mentioned Line, I feel correct in •tatingit as by far the best track or site, by which a Canal may be conducted. Nature having done every thing which reason could expect, considering the nature of the country, by its copious chain of lakes, opening and branching into innumerable parts of the country, affording an easy, quick, and cheap communi- cation with the Capital, leaving only the short spaci of not quite three miles, for Art to accomplish a work of such great utility. Should it be deemed expedient, I would humbly propose a road or land carriage in the three above-mentioned Passes, which could be accomplished this summer. The Passes are for the most part level ; and by the assistance of W«ll conducted road, carriages of great burden could be made over them. So that in one year boais often or twelve tons, might ply from the Bay of Fundy, iothe Harbour at Halifax ; and this useful and extensive navigation be opened at a small expense. I am the more induced to propose this mode, as a canal could not be effected without it ; and the Toll paid on the articles conveyed would in a short time defray the expenses ; and be of great utility to this new and rising country. Much more remains to be said on the advantages arising from this plan, but I think those mentioned quite sufficient. VALENTINE GILL. Halifiix 1 8th March, 1815. IS ree qaarten ave not yet eds an angle ilso its easy les into the miles fully ir at Halifax, h water for el correct in ! conducted, isidering the anching into ap communi' :hree miles, road or land ccomplished assistance of r them. So >y of Fundy, n be opened e, as a canal es conveyed ility to thii ! advantages GILL. Letter addressed by the Honourable Michael Wallace^ to the Chairmap of the Committee of the House of Assemf bly, appointed to consider the subject of the Shubenac- cadie Navigation, Saturday, 19th February, 1820. Sin, In conformity to the resolutions of the House of Assembly, which you inclosed me, I am to acquaint you : that in the year 1796, the sum of £260 was grant- ed by the Legislature to explore the Dartmouth lakes, and the Shubenaccadie Lakes and Riverdown to Fort Ellis ; with the view to ascertain the practicability of effecting an inland navigation from the Bason of Mines to the Harbour of Halifax. A survey was accordingly made, under my direction in the year 1797 by Mr. Isaac Hildrith an experienced practical Engineer in the business of Canal making, assisted by Mr. Theophilus Chamberlain Deputy Surveyor of Lands. Their plan and Reports are now before you ; and the expense inc«rred in this service appears to be £208 : 13 : 1. The Estimate made by Mr. Hildrith of the probable expense of executing the work agreeable to his plan, I can hare no doubt was as correctly made as human judgment was capable of ; he, being a sober, clearheaded, thinking man, was well able and quite di«. posed, to make his calculations with great caution ; knowing the nature of the ground and the ordmarj iHfficuUies to be expected. His survey and estimate were submitted to the Navy Board by the late Com- missioner Duncan ; and the subject was so well thought of by that Board, that it was their intension, had t!.o war not broke ouL'hortly after it was considered, to have sent oufe a Naval Engineer to examine, and confirm or correct Mr.'' Hildrith'3 report and estimate, The sums of money grantad in 1814 and 1815, at the solicitation of Mr. SabatUer, were expended under his direction by a Mr. Gill j the result of which threw no additional, nor indeed any light on tiie subject, and served only la corroborate the report of Mr. Hildrith's course, and the correctness of th« levels I.e had taken. Gill proceeded however no farther thanM'Nabb's or Fletcher's Bridge, and made no calculations of expense ; and I never saw or beard of any report* of his proceedings, other than the sketches of the Dart- mouth and part of the Shubenaccadie Lake.s. .. *% '"o'"?*^ Ktpott wag madt by Gill ; but hii Minutei of th^ «nrv« »»r« r»f„r„-^ »- ri«trwf R ^! Surreyor Gcaerai with aJplan and «ction of thVcouMefromHaUfax to rioteher'i Bridge ; thetre vary but little from Mr. IlalPi turr.y . «»"»» lo S 111 ■i ! 1^ With regard to the measures the Assembly may think advisable to adopt, in consequence of his Excellency's recommendation on this subject, 1 can only say, that since the time of Mr. Hildrith'a survey and estimate, (now upwards of twenty years,) there may be new and improved ideas on canal works and navigation ; and considering the inland navigation contemplated, to be of vital importance to Nova Scotia, it is extremely desirable to procure an able practical canal Engi- neer of the present times, to examine anew those lakes and the course propos- ed for accomplishing a water communication, ns well as an Estimate of the expense—before either the public or individuals embark in an undertaking of such comparative magnitude to our means in this young Country. According to my judgment, if a competent scientific person should now be found in the United States, he might be induced to come here and do the service required for £600, paying his passage to and from hence. If recourse must be had to England or Scotland for such a person, I do not think n less sum than f, 1000 would be required to be placed at the disposal of his Excellency the Lieutenant Governor for that purpose. I am respectfully. Sir, Your Obedient Servant, (Signed) MICHAEL WALLACE. ;« 1 ; ! I Letter from William Chapman Esquire, Civil Engineer, Newcastle, England, on the subject of the Canal. Rye, September 16, 1824. Dear Sir. In carefully perusing the Documents* you left with me, and your des- cription of the probable commerce and the transit of vessels, I have no donbt that the completion of the design wonld amply remunerate the Subscribers, if the cost were even double of what has been estimated. I think the Act of Assembly judiciously drawn. Although the date I already possess have enabled me to speak decidedly— because I know of no existing communication between two seas (except the •TTie Documents referred to were the Report and Estimate made by Mr. Hildrlth— the plan accompanying it; and the I'lan and Section from the Harbour of Halifax to the I>artm«uth Lakes— with the Act for Incorporating a Canal Company. le to adopt, in can only any, ards of twenty d navigntion ; importance to :al canal Engi- ourse propos- stimate of the undertaking of should now be do the service recourse must less sum than Excellency the ULLAGE, Engineer, yanal. 16, 1824. and your des- have no doubt le Subscribers, ik decidedly — as (except the [r. Hildrlth— the r Halifax to ibe Canal of Sleswick across the Peninsula of Jutland) that possesses such faclli- ties, as exist between Halifax and the Bay of Mines— there yet remains several minute particulars requisite to be acquired ; which can best be obtained by soDle young man of such professional experience as would enable him fully to comprehend and execute such instructions as would be given him by someone of matured knowledge ; who also, by having these investigations laid before him, would be enabled to lay down the most advisable modes of proceeding. I remain. Dear Sir, your Obedient Servant, WILLIAM CHAPMAN. Letter addressed to the Honourable the President orthe Province, by Francis Hall, Esquire, the Civil Engineer appointed under the authority of the General Assembly, to make a Survey of the Shubenaccadie, and Estimate of the Expense of a Canal. Halifax, 19th June, 1825, Sir, Having carefully surveyed the Dartmouth and Shubenaccadie Lakes and the River down to its confluence, with as much accuracy as appeared to be neces- sary for the purpose of a Canal communication from the Harbour of Halifax, t© the Bason of Mineu — * I have now the honor to lay before you, the result of my investigations ; viz, a Section and Elevation No. 1 of the Lockage, and connection of these waters ; also Designs No 2 and 3 containing a detail of the various works ; with minute Specifications for the execution of the same.* Also a Report and estimate of the expense which I deem sufficient to com- plete that Navigation. I feel confident, as to the practicability of the undertaking ; and with fewer difficulties than I have seen or experienced in Canal works, either in Britain, Canada, or the United States. •These being both minute in all the details, and volnmlnous, and relating aolelvto the ep«r»i.ve parts of the lubject, it has not be«n thought necessary to publish them: 18 Under this impression, I have no doubt Contractors maj be found to eiccutc the work, for the sums slated in my estimate. I have no hes'uUon, in desiring it to be understood, That— in the event of pablic offers being found beyond the sums stated in the estimate— I, upon my own responsibility, will guarantee, to find respectable Contractors, to finish all the work, within eighteen months from the contract date : and, that the sum of Five Thousand Pounds shall be placed at the disposal of the Commissioners, aotil such time, as the work has been in every respect completed, and opeo for Navigation during a period of eighteen unonlhs. I have the Honor to be, &c. FRANCIS MALL. f l^> Report and Estimate by Mr. Hall, OK TBB 8BUBSNA00A&IB KAVZOATIOIT. -«f%^%%'«%^» jj . ■■!'!i il Id compliance with instnsctions, from his Honor the President administer- ing the Government of Nova-Scotia, I have examined the Shubenaccadi'*. Canal Route, commencing at a small sheltered Bay, situated 300 yards east of Partmoath Mill Cove. The ground, and depth of water is there favourable, for the construction of a regulating Tide Lock ; also, for the excavation of a Timber and Canal Bason. From thence, the Canal line will proceed upon an easy inclination to the SOTface of Dartmouth Lake, by eight Locks, varying from 8 to 12 feet in general rise. l*he lengths, heights and lockage, are marked upon the section No. 1, to which I beg leave to refer. Passing Dartmouth Lake, one mile and 1340 yards, the soundings average J I feet. At the northern extremity of the JVarrows, the depth is 10 feet, de. creMing in a distance of two hundred yards, to 6, 7, and 8 feet. The bottom of that $koali is composed of large detached stones, which can be removed at little expense, during the construction ofLockJ^o. 8. Then the wat«r of 4kU I'klfA muill Ka tflAnpAflSAil p r ind to execute the event of ate — I, upon ctors, to finish ?, that the sum !ommissioner9, 2ted, and opca S HALL. nonf. V M lent administer' Shubenaccadi'^ OOjards eastof g he construction m , * iber and Canal easy inclination Bm 8 to 12 feet ction No. 1, to andings average I is 10 feet, de. t. The bottom 1 be removed at len the wat«r of i^tiih VAHMtfuih kke, and Lake Charles or flr^t Shutienaccadie. For pm* lug this summit three Locks will be required ; and deep cutting for aoo yards. The sipex of this cut is 16 feet abov^ Top Bank. To diminish the expense of this part of the work, it is proposed to execute the same, by retaining walls, ten feet in height, and otherwise in accordance with the particular design and specilication marked No. 2* The iurface of this ridge is generally composed of large loose stones, well adapted for retaining walls, and rubble backing ; the subsoil appears to be of a mixed clay and gravelly nature. Proceeding upon the Summit level two miles and 880 yards, the depth of water increpses in Lake Charles from 36 to 42, 50, 80 and 108 feet, diminish- ing to 6 feet at the point marked A. The bottom of this shoal is soft : the obstructions are produced by decayed timber, and may be removed without difficulty. Continuing upon still water to Reeve's mill head, where the present surfkce ftf this summit will be preserved by the msertion of Lock No. 10 ; from the chamber of this lock, pass for three hundred yards upon still water^ to the head of a rai)id, B, favourably situated for a waste wear. The Canal line will then deviate from the stream, and be carried uponits right bank for a distance of 600 yards, to Lock No. 1.5, or head of the second Shubenaccadie Lake. This lake is 4 miles and 320 yards in extent, the depth of water varying from 17i to 36, 48 and 60 feet. No interruption will be experienced until passing the narrows or entrance of the Third Shubenaccadie. At the points marked c. c. c. by deepening two (eet^ a clear navigation will be formed, of 3 miles and 420 yards, to Lock No. 16, at Fletcher's Bridge. At this bridge a waste wear may be conveniently placed. The Fourth Shubenaccadie Lake is ehe mile and 1540 ydrdsin length, is of sufficient depth, and only requires the insertion of Lock No. 17, (at the rapid D.) to back water to the preceding lock chamber. Descending by Lock No. 17, we gain the surface of the Grand Lake, situated 41 feet 3 inches above high water in Halifax Harbour. Continuing five miles and 1320 yards the depth of water increases from 14 to 35, 90^ and 11 4. feet, again diminishing to /our feet, at the head of the Shubenaccadie River. The general descent from the Grand Lake by the Shubenaccadie (o t|te Tide way at Black Rock, is twelve feet eleven inches. To produce still watery and of sufficient depth Two Locks will be required for this distance ; oae C Lock No. 10, at the rocky rapid ; another Lock No. 19, at F^arley'^ point* ; this last to act as a reguhiting Title Lock. By the construction of No. 10 Lock at the point proposed, a greater extent of still water will be obtained upon the superior level ; the duration of the tides vvill , ' o be increased; thereby presenting a greater facility of making the Bason of Mines within a given time. Many windings of the Shubcnaccadie River may be improved at a moderate rate. The ground gained from the River» will in most instances meet the expense. Have likewise examined a contemplated cut between the Shubenaccadie River, at Barney's Brook near Black Rock, and the lower extremity of the Grand Lake. The fall as before stated is 12 feet and 11 inches, the distance Id a direct course about 54 miles. By adhering to the general direction, an expensive aqueduct and deep- cutting will be experienced near Mr. Tremain's clearing. Upon pursuing the natural openings of the country, the course is thrown so near the Shubenac- cadie Vaiiey, that no material saving of distance can be effected. I have, from the following considerations, abandoned the present idea of this Route -. — 1st. The expense of excavating five miles of Canal by a line moderately level, will amount to . . £10,000 0* 2d. Aqueduct and extra cutting, ...... 4,000 Expense of this Line, . • . 3d. The expense of one Lock and Waste Wear re- quired for perfecting the Navigation of the Shu- benaccadie, between Black Rock and the Grand Lake, , . . £14,000 / 1,659 10 a CifTerence of Expense for a saving of two miles, . £12,340 10 u RESERFOJRS. A permanent Water supply for the Summit or First Shubenaccadie Lakc^ may be obtained from Cranberry, and Lake Loon ; an auxiliary Reservoir of 250 acres, may be formed upon Loon Creek, immediately adjoining the Dart' moutbroad. The Head may be raised 12 feet ; the extent of Embankment 82 yards ; the surface that may be flooded is comparatively of little valne :• the principal timber has been removed. These Reservoirs, although only filled twice during the season, are abun-- ithy^t polof ; d, a greater 18 duration of 3r facility of at a moderate 1CC9 meet the ihubenaccadie [•emily of the 1, the distance uct and decp^ 1 pursuing the he Shubenac- 1. resent idea oC )0 O 00 )0 / 39 10 10 10 II accadie Lake^ Reservoir of ling the Dart' >■ = * Embankment! ' '^ 'little valne : -^',)> )on, are abuo-- f1 4antly ample to supply any deficiency by lockage, evaporatloD, or absorption, as will appear by the following statement :— Cranberry Lake contains 20 acres, Lake Loon, .... 'J2i) do The Proposed Reservoir, 260 do Total, . . . 690 acres, = a superficial area, of 25,699,400 feel. Suppose the above Lakes tc be available only to the depth of six feet; and filled twice to this depth during the season; we shouLl then have 25,099,400 X 12 equal to 308,392,800 cubic feet of water. Allow, for a fair Canal Trade, ten boats upwards and the same number returning, each day, for sij months of the year, or 2880 Boats : for the passage of each boat, 9500 cubic feet of water is required : therefore 2G80 x 9500 ii equal to 27,360,000 cubic feet, of waste by Lockage : leaving 281,032,000 of cubic feet, for evaporation absorption, and the purposes of machinery. Mttraet Estimate of the Expense of making a Canal from Halifax Harbour, at Dartmouth, to the Bason of Mines. Commencing 4 feet under Low Water, Halifax Har- bour; Timber of Cofl'er dam for entrance Lock =3 3600 feet, at 2.5s, per hundred, £ 45 Workmanship of do. Iron Keys, and draining, ... 63 Cutting and embanking Canal I,ine 107G yards x 20 = 21,520 cubic yards, at 29. per yard, .... 2,152 Lock Pits e-xcavating partly rock = 28 x 9 x 3i i 8 = 6272 cubic yards, at 2a. Gd. per yard, . . . 784 6 Constructing 8 Locks, with Lock Gates, Cills, and in every respect corresponding with the spccitlcation, at 4?l524each, 12,192 Two Canal Draw Bridges, each £193 386 £15,642 e Cutting at Dividing Ridge 620 yards X 20 =12,400 cubic yardi, ThreeLockPits,=r28x8x3ix3=t 2,352 do No, 1. Diagram 750x25 =1 8,750 do , „ 2. Wedge 340-2 x 3 x 19 = 9,690 do „ 3. Parallelog'm. 230x 19 x 3i=l 4,564 do „ 4. Top Wedge 130-2 x 19x 2= 2,470 dn „ 5. Pyram'l, slopes 130-3x2x3— 258 d» „ 6. Top Wedge 100-2 x 19 x 2= 1,900 d« „ 7. Pyram'l, slopes 100-3x2x3= S93 ilo „ 8. Wedge 100-2 x 3 x 19 ^ 2,850 do Excavation, at Is. 3d, per yard, 65,432 cubic yds. 4,089 10 Retaining Walls, 460 yards lineal, at 10s. per yard, 230 Locks No. 9, 10, and 11 at 5^^1490 each, . . . 4470 Q Q Removing Tree Roots, and widening Channel of First '■ Shubenaccadie Lake, near Pceeve's Saw Mill, . . 30 Carried over^ . . . £24,461 10 6 "'» ft Amount broufi;ht forwarH, , . , tock No. 12, nnd Lock Pit nt Ktieve'a Mill, . . . Waste VVenr between Lock No; I'J and 13 = GO feel in width, or 120 solid yurd^ of in.i! Iters, nrc as follows : Sixty feet ill widtli, at the water level, 3G feet at bottom: slopes, one and a jialf horizontal, to one perficndicular. The Locks, 90 feet within the chamber, 19irecl in width, and 125 feet be- tween extremities ol Wing Walls. The Benching"', Paths, and Slopes for I'mhnnknitnf, are the same by either depth, and are all pntticularly described in the subjoined npccifications for the execution of the work, and accompanied with designs, elevations, &c. for the Lockage. By the foregoing estimates it will be observed, that nineteen Locks are re- quired to perfect this navigation ; besides several Waste Wears of dimensions competent to preserve the artificial Works from injury during the spring and autumn Hoods. These Waste Wears, have generally been placed so as to dis- charge themselves into expanded bodies of water ; thereby securing a more perfect Canal, than under any possible arrangement for a continued River Na- vigation. After completing this work ; the most eligible and least expensive mode of navigating these waters appears to be by Steam Tow Boats, of twelve or four- teen horse power. A boat of this description will make a passage from Hall- fat Harbour to the mouth of the Sbubenaccadie, 55 miles, in fifteen hours ; carrying with her four Trade Boats each of 30 Tons burden. The expense of a Tow Vessel and machinery, adapted for passing the Locks will amount to £2000 ; and may be navigated by two men. The transit per ton will be, Interest upon £1000 at lb per. cent is per day, £l Expense of two Men, do 15 Four cords ofW ood, . 4 10 jg2S,l94 17 11 1,0 00 Q £29,494 nil Expense £6 5 for 120 Tons of produce or goods, or 12J pence per ton, upon a distance of 55 miles. On the whole It appears tq me, that no obstacle or difficulty will be experi- enced, upon any part of the Route, by miheriog to either depth for canal water After a fair competition for executing the works has been tried, and the offers found above what has been stated in this Report — from confidence in the es- timates and experience of similar works, 1 will find no difficulty to provide respectable Contractors, to do all the Work^ and in a propev manner, for the Sums specified. FRANCIS HALL, Engineer. Halifax, 17th June, 1826. p 94 RZSSOKUTZONS OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF HALIFAX. At a Special Meeting, held on the 9th July, 1825. ■ liluili! M -niijl! I: .1 ■'.< ] THE Chamber of Commerce having this day taken into consideration the sub» ject of opening aNavigable Communication from Hiilifnx to the Basin of Mines, in the Bay of Funrly ; and had before them the Report of Francis Hall, Esq. the Engineer hitely employed to examine the practicability of this important work, and estimate its expense ; also the Plans and Sections which have been prepared : have unanimously Resolved as follov/s : That the execution of the contemplated Canal, appears from the Report of Mr. Hall, to be perfectly practicable; andean be effected at an expense comparatively moderate. That, in the opinion of theChamber, it hasbecomeindispensable to the future prosperity of Halifax, as a place of Export, and to the Province in general : that this great public measure should now be commenced ; and every exertion made for its speedy completion : since while deprived of the facilities which Water Carriage affords, the conveyance of goods and produce, between Halifax and the Interior, will ever be attended with an expense, which must operate most in- juriously against their mutual intercourse. That in the execution of the proposed Canal, so many advantages will follow from forming the works suitable for an eight feet Navigation, that the Chamber recommend this as by fi\r the most useful depth ; and that it should be complet- ed to the Harbour. That a Committee be appointed to communicate with his Honor the Presi- dent and his Majesty's Council, as to the most effectual measures to be adopted far promoting this highly interesting object. Resolved that the President, Mr. Collins, Mr. Boggs, and Mr. Hartshorn, be • Ceuomittee for this purpose : and that the Representatives for the Town be fequeited to assist them. Jil ^ 1825. eration the sub» ! Basin of Mines, iincis Hall, Esq. of this important vhich have been rom the Report at an expense able to the future in general : that *y exertion made ies which Water 1 Halifax and the operate most in- itages will follow Ijat the Chamber ould be compUt' lonor the Presi- ea to be adopted r. Hartshorn, be )r the Town be ON THE Shubenaccadie Canal. «'V«\i ww\< vv«« THE preceding pages, VTith the Plan and Map accompanying them, will, it Mr presumed, convey to the Public, clearly and satisfactorily, the manner in which it is proposed to open an Inland Navigable Communication between the Har- bour of Halifax and the Bay of Fundyy — the facilities that exist for the execu- tion of this important work — the probable expense attending it — and the en- couragement, which the Legislature has provided for those who engage in the Undertaking, by securing to them, with exclusive privileges, the rights of a Chartered Company. — With these particulars it will not perhaps be unaccepta- ble, on a subject of so general interest, to receive a brief Description of the Line of Country, through which the Canal is intended to pass — and to which its advan- tages will extend, — an Account of what has already been done in furtherance of this object, — and some Notices on the Results which may be expected from its completion ; and on the measures proper to be adopted for accelerating the accomplishment of an enterprise, now so generally and anxiously desired. The River Shubenaccadie has its rise in a small piece of water called Cran- berry Lake, in the Township of Preston, and four miles east from Dartmouth. — A scanty stream, flowing westward, connects it with the extensive Reservoir of Lake Loon, — whose waters, at their outlet, follow the same course, and de- scend into the South East part of Lake Charles.* This fine body of water, deep and capacious, lies on the summit level of the proposed Canal — extends from North to South 14300 yards— and occupies the higher portion of the exten- eive Valley, which reaches, with varying Breadth and Elevation, from Dart- mouth to the Basin of Mines ; dividing the Province, by a well defined line of separation into two portions nearly equal. It is here that some of the indispen- Bable requisites to the success of an Inland Navigatiou are already provided.— This large Lake occupies the whole length of the Summit Level ; will from its own abundance during the greater part of the year, furnish waterfor the" Locks at each oftls extremities ; — and, lying below Lake Loon, can derive, from that ♦Lakes Charles, William, Thomas, and Fletcher's, are generally dhtlnguished »t the First, Second, Third, and Fourth Shubenaccadie Lakes. ., t About 24 miles : 1760 yards being oue mUe. > - u r ^tii 1« ineihauatible resource, a supply sufficient for any probable transportation, ftnd for all the waste and deficiencies produced by evaporation or other causes. — ■ These are circumstances in the highest degree favorable to the intended Commu- nication. From the two extremities of Lake Charles, the descent is southward through the Dartmouth Lakes to the Harbour ; and northward, througj^ the beautiful expanse of Lakes William and Thomas, the Rapids at Fletcher's, and the fourth Lake, into that noble sheet of water, called with much propriety the Great Lake : and thencealong the Channel, in which the River, undei* the name Of the Shubenaccadie pursues a course of nearly thirty miles, to its union with 'be tides of theBay of Funday — These Lines of descent are divided on the plan.^ itito Four distinct Sections, unequal in size, but proportioned to the extent off "artificial works required on each ; and it will perhaps be most convenient tb* I'efer to them in the same manner. The First Section reaches from the waters of the Harbour to the south end of the Dartmouth Lakes, a distance of 1300 yards, with arise of 68 feet, abovte the Line of High Water in Dartmouth Cove. The Second includes these Pieces of water, [in length 3100 yards] and passes over the Portage, 1400 yards wfdei with a further rise of 27 feet, into Lake Charles — making the whole distan<30, fi*om its south shore to the Harbour, but 6800 yards or about 34 miles — To sur- jtiount this Ascent Eleven Locks are required ; of >\h'ichEight will be placed in the lower Portion. The expense of constructing these last has been estimated at nearly two fifths of the cost of the whole Canal ; and this consideration, with the facilities that exist for supplying their place by a Railway, has had weight in recommending the /a^^er as the 6r5< mode of connecting the Dartmouth Lakes with the Harbour ; it is however subject to objections which will be afterwards noticed. Ascending the Portage to LakeCharles, the site of the other three Locks is fixed on the Barren, in a rocky Hollow, through which the passage of a large stream, formerly running Southward, may be distinctly traced. This Lake and the Descent from it into Lake William, distant HOG' yards "with a fall of 39i feet to the Cill of the lowest Lock, afe included in the Third Section ; for which four Locks arid other artificial works are necessary. The whole of the remaining Line throngh the Lakes and ta the Mouth of the River, is comprehended in the Fourth Seetio/t : and to complete this paii and niake it navi- giable throughout, with safety and convenience, four Locks only are slated to be required ; and are allotted to those points where the level of the water can be raised to a sufficient height above the Rapids and other Obstructions of the present Chaimels. The difference between the estimated expense, for the Second^^ml that for the Tfiird and Fourth Divinions is but of trifling amoubt- I nnSportation, knd r other causes. — intended Commu- icent is southward vnrd, througl^the at Fletcher's, and uch propriety the ir, undei'the name 9, to its union with ivided on the plan, d to the extent of lost convenient to ;o the south end of of 68 feet, above hides these Pieces , 1400 yards wide le whole distan^ie, 3i miles — To sur- *!/ willbe placed in las been estimated onsideration, with , has had weight in Dartmouth Lakes will be afterwards I other three Locks passage of a larg^e J. iistant HOO yards aded in the Third necessary. The jth of the River, is and niake it navi- only are stated io I of the water can ir Obstructions of d expense, for the rifling amounts '■i I Having thus .shortly adverted to the Valley of the Shubrinaccndic, thfr\Vaterg that occupy it, and the works by which they m:iy be adapted to the [mrposes of navigation, let us direct our attention to that part of the Interior, through whifcK it passes. This, if examined even in a cursory manner, will be found very dis- tinctly divided, at the Point where the River issues from the Great Lake, into two Portions widely ditrering from each otiier in soil and aspect. The District which extends towards Dartmouth is generally rocky ; and .wholly unfit, some small spots excepted, for profitable cultivation.— Forests of Hard Wood and Hemlock Trees intermixed with the Spruce and some Pines, and separated by tracts of barren land, cover the shores of the Great Lake, and the rude arid broken hills that rise abruptly from the East side of Lakes William and Thomas : and Groves of the same descriptioh are observed extendingEastwardly from dif- ferent parts of Lake Charles. On the western side of this last, arid for some miles to the northward, all near the water appears waste anddesolate. In this quarter a chain of small Lakes, discharging into Lake William, occupies the low Lands— and was once thought a preferable hne for d Canal, to communicate with Bedford Basin. A careful survey proved it to be impracticable. On the other Hand, the District, which lies between the Great Lake and the Shores bf Cobequid Bay, presents an appearance altogether the reverse. The SJate, Granite and other Hard Rocks of the Southern Division are no longet seen. The C^mtry is low and fertile, adapted to agricultural purposes and the support of a dense populati.^n,— covered with useful timber— filled with Gyp- ;- sum and Limestone,— and affording indications of extensive beds ofCoal arid other Minerals. This description belongs to a Tract extending many miles both East and West of the Shubchaccadie. In the immediate vicinity of the stream lie several valuable and well managed Farms ; to which are attached the rich Intervals or alluvial deposits that border its course as far down as Fort Ellis. From this Point, the upward View of the Valley— It^ sides gehtiy receding, and adorned with a succession of cultivated fields and woodland—and the Full and ample current of the River, winding its course between them— present a scene of peculiar beauty. Below this, till it enters the Bay, its banks chiefly consist of cliffs of Gypsum and Limestone. Nor iire thesd Fossils restricted to this part of its course ; they are also found at the Angle formed by the River; where it issues from the Lake, -and in several other places along and near its channel. The Black Rock, to which the tide reaches, is wholly Limestone J and near it. Coal of the finest quality and in great abundance has been lately discovered, and in i favorable situatioii for water carriage. The Point when the Riverjeaves the Lake is but twenty one miles from Halifajc Harbour, passing in a straight line through the Six D t if''' ife '!■■ I .1 U I* ' ) 'mm \\ \ ^f •■il 19 Lake? ; which are, in many place?, extremely deep, and, in all, $u£Bcicnt fot Navigation. The Breadth of the Shnhenaccadie at itsmonlh may he stated at nearly half a mile,— and the rise ol ihe Tide at fronj 3G to 5© fcot. At Fort Ellis, 14 miles lip the Stream, its width is about 400 yards, and depth at hi<>;h water over 20 feet. At llarley's Point, which has been chosen for the scile ofthe lowest or Regulating Lock, the water at full tide will he from ten to lifteen feet ; and the distance between the Banks very considerable. — Thence upnards the Channel is wide and deep ; and will be further enlarged by the operation of this Lock in raising the water to a level with it^ Walls. The Valley of the Shubenaccadie, i^ might be expected from its situalion, receives the surplus waters from the whole Country, both East and West, for many miles, — collected between the numerous low Ridges that diverge on eaeh «id.e from the River. Of the Streams that flow into it from the East, the Prin- cipal nretheStewiack and Gay's River ; on the opposite Bank it receives the Nine and Four Mile Rivers. In theStewiack, which ^uites with the Shubenaccadie above Fort Ellis, the Tide ascends about 7 miles ; and beyond this distance, according totheReporjt of intelligent Persons, its Course maybe followed for nearly forty fivemilei: affording a passage for small Boats, and for the conveyance of Timber ; of which large quantities are annually sent from its Banks to the Mouth of the Main River, and there shipped for exportation. In the Eastern Division of the Province, there are few finer Ajjricultural Tracts than those which compose the Settlements on the Stewiack. The Inhabitants are numerous and enterprising, nnd have long supplied this market with Cattle and Produce from their Farros^ Along the River, and between it and the Musquodoboit, (which at the distance of four tiiijes, pursues a parallel Course to the Westward through a thriving dis- trict) fine Oaks and other Timber for Ship building, with Trees suitable for Masts and Spars, are found in abundance, and in situations whence they can rear dily be conveyed to the River side ; and there is no reason to apprehend a failure in the supply for many years. — At two places, about 14 miles above the tideand one mile from the River, veins of Coal rise to the surface, and are pro- bably extensive. In their vicinity. Freestone, Lime, and Roofing Slate, of the best kinds are found : and Salt Springs of unusual strength have also been discovered, which hereaAermay become of great value and importance. — To the conveyance upon the Stewiack, of all the productions here referred to, it is confidently stated that there exist no material obstacles. — From the Bridge, which crosses it thirty miles above the tide, down 'o Fort Ellis, the impedi^ sufficient rot it nearly half Ellip, 14 miles filler over 20 tin? lowest or feet ; nnd the s the Chunnel if this Lock in n itssituiilion, and West, for verge on each last, the Prin- t receives the. Port Ellis, the to the Reporjt ty five miles : ber ; of which I of the Main ivision of the !i compose the I enterprising, 1 their FarroSk :he distance of a thriving did> es suitable for they canrea<> > apprehend a iles above the , and are pro- Slate, of the ice also been ortance.— To iferred to, it is 01 the Bridge, 3, the impedi^ iiwmi't ments may be ensily romoved from thcChnnncl; nnd then Boats often tons Burthen may ascend Uie whole distiincc. Below the Bl;ick Rock, Giiy's River enters theShtibenncciidic sifter a course of about six miles from L.ike Eijmont, receiving in its progress two Bnnches, of which one, coming from (lio Northwiird, unites with it iibout a mile btlovv the Lake. — Ou this stream a vein of ConI of good quality has been hiid open by the w Iter; and near it are Iron Ore, Limostone, and Slate. The Pine, Spruce and other valuable Timber trees abound in this quirter ; and the Lands, although but partially settled, are considered excellent. Passing Eastward from the Head of Lake Egiront, a low and level ppjicc of about two miles and an half— conducts to the great Bend of the Musqtiodoboit ; which there chan;5es< its Western Course and flows to the Sea Shore.— The very valuable produce of the lurge Tract wattM-ed by this fine River, will, ' probably :it no distant day. be transforried across this narrow passage, and descend through Gays River, Proceeding now to the We«(: Side of the Shubenaccadie, we find the Nine and Five Mile Rivers flowing into it, after a course of several miles from the West, through a Country which, if not so extensively settled or abundant in Timber as the Eastern Division, is in all respects its equal in the quality of the soil, and its fitness for agriculture ; and is now rapidly improving by an in- dustrious, though scattered Population. The preceding Description can convey but a faint outline of the Country which borders on the Shubenaccadie, or is naturally connected with it ; but may suffice to prove— that this Portion of the Interior not only possesses in itself Resources adequate to the profitable maintenance of the proposed Navigation ; but is also, by its acknowledged value and importance, c/7ft'e a distinct im- the Navigation •ns, we shall be nd expeditious imber, and the he Province so most efiectual the Colony, — he support and of the Public, ue indifferent, ight before the lie interests of :l am! 31 the Province, had been forcibly impressed, during a passage performed a short lime previously in a small boat through the lakes and down the Stream of the Sliubenaccadie, (then scarcely known and thinly settled,) with the facilities there presented for introducing the conveniences of Inland Navigation.-— His representations, the confidence reposed in his practical experience, a,id the conviction he produced on the Members of an Assembly (composed of moat able and enlightened men, well acquainted with the'situation and necessi- ties of the Colony,) that its advancement would be efi'ectually promoted by a measure, which appeared to him perfectly feasible,~induced the Mouse to ap- propriate the sum of £250 for its further investigation. This sum was en- trusted to a Committee who saw clearly the great importance of the object, and the necessity ofa careful enquiry into every thifig connected with its execution. ■ The services ofa skilful Engineer, Mr. Hildritb, who had acquired much expe- rience in that branch, were obtained,; and in the autumn of the same year he returned his Report and Estimate, which gave a satisfactory confirmation of all that had been stated with regard to the practicability and moderate cost of the work. ' ■ ■ * In the Session of 1798, the friends of the measure, acting upon this Report, introduced into the Assembly aBill for Incorporating a Company to complete the Canal ; and so well was it received, that no fears of its failure existed : and all necessary arrangements were actually in prc-ress for the formation of the Company, and raising the funds required for the undertaking—In this stage the Letter of Sir John Wentworth, then Governor of the Province (which is inserted in the preceding Pages) was addressed to the Principal Members of the Association; and convoyed his favorable opinion of the Plan, and intention to pffbrd them every assistance ii. 1ms Power towards its success—But the whole measure was unexpectedly defeated l.y tho obstacles which (from causes now not easily to be ascertained) arose in the House of Assembly, to the Progress of the Bill in the form in which it was first introdnced by its Supporters ;"and some restrictions having been inserted, which it was supposed would operate injuriously upon the Associates in the prosecution of their design, they aban- idoned, for the time, their application for the Privileges of Incorporation ; proposing to renew it under more propitious circumstances. It must however' jbe admitted, that at this period, the state of the Province, would have' rendered it extremely inconvenient and difficult to raise even the moderate sum, at which, according to the estimate of Mr. Hildrith, the Canal could have been completed. During the succeeding years till 1814, although many causes combined with Pohticul events to divert the Public eye from this Enterprise, still its impor, Ij • 1 m ■M * I.. tAn,ec ftml necessity were generally confessed ; nnd its first Supporter con« tinued siinguine ofitsievcntuul and successful acconiplishnient. But in this inlervid, one of those Gentlemen, during a ter'por.iry rc?i- dence in Cnglnnd, bestowetl great attention upon the (lifTcrpnt methods, that had been adopted thnre, for the improvon)cnl of Inland Navigntion : and obtained, from authentic gources, oxpliination!» an these terms : *' I also submit to your consideration the practicability of a Canal *' to connect the Harbour of Halifax with the Basin of Mines, by the *• Lakes of Shubenaccadie, This is a work of great importance, and to be at- " tempted with great caution : It promises great public advantages : but I do " not know the extent of its difficulties: and to ascertain these by competent ** Engineers is all 1 mean to suggest at present." To this part of the Sj)pech on that occasion the House of Representatives replied " We thank your Excel- " lency for calling our attention to the pre^i : 'd inland Navigation between the *' Harbour of Halifax and the Basin of Mine:*. We ihall carcfuHv coneider this I n i -.'i Supporters con* ter'porary rcfi- nt methods, ihiit Niivigiition : iiiicl ti rrliitivr to the r in the progress igfrom the Lrgis- ngpassngcs of the n icahilily of aCtinnI )f Mines, by the nee, and to be at- antagps : but I do Dse by competent art of the Sprech thank your Excel- jation between the ifully coneider tbis '■' !nler„lhgSu\.ioci ; nnil cndcmonr to iiKcrlnin llio oxlenl of it, |.etent Encineer,, the practie.- > "" °^"" '"•"I""-' '"l-"l Navigation ; „„,, „,„ p,„bable ,am of money . " winch wonbl .,c ,eq„ire,l to Complete it." I„ performing thi.duty i„f„rm,ti. on wa, solicits from the Honorahle the Treasurer , who having fir,t ,„gge,ted 'l.eme„,„re and taken the most active part in pport. w„. i„,im„,e|j ec qnam.ed witb it, varion, de,ail,.-Hi, letter to ,l,e Committee, which form, part ot th,, P„bl,cat,o„, wa, adopted into .heir Report : and hy their recommel. ..on, the sum of £300 w„, granted toward, the expense of , tr.n p.rticul.. Survey. But on enquiry, it wa, perceive,, that the amount wa, inad.,,,.,, . an wou, t ,„ffi,, f„ .^„, „.„„^^ investigation, which „„„ bVl' .nd,spe„sah e m order ,o satisfy the existing doubt, n„d uncertaintie., ( n,.r.a,ned perbap. not unreasonably, considering the number of year, elapsed s,„oe Mr. Hildritb's Report) and whicMhe authority of ,„ Engtneer of acknowledged experience was required to remove. For thi. purpose eirectual Arrangements could only be made by the Legi.laf . ■' an further Proceedings were therefore delayed until the Ses^on' „; 1: ", " ° y'" '"•" "f -e^CO'va, appropriated to procure ihc erv,ce,ofaGe„„ema„«fcompote„t ability, for the execution of .ha. „W ™por.an.task.-B„t to encourage and facilitate .he formation of acLZ* ,eme„. which ,. would receive a, „ y„„o,. W,rfert„*,W-the Ac. of ncorporatioo, which commence, these pages was „„„ by theA.. mblv Ar e c f tbe s i„„ „,,,,,,„,^ ,^,_ ^ i^ not;::: ^e:^„ ec. The ,„.ernal communication, of a Country te.d so manifestly to it, im - proven.e„,, and .. increase the productive Industry ofit, « ^t ■ Pos .1. to ascertain the oracticahility and expense of forming a Canal „"„„iL' 'l.e wa.ers of.he Basin of Mines with .he Harbour of Halifax " Kavlgalioo ,0 a E ;^ .^^^^^^^^^^^ r>u J, s "^^"^ 0' the first emmence n the Prorp«!nn w.w (^. page .6) wluch contatn, hi, very favorable op ™ „ru,e EaftrprU.--^ i I fi, >; f H- ■a The Administralion oflho Provincial Government hnd now, in consoiiiicnco of his Excellenc)''s abscnr.e in England, devolved on the Honorable M. Wallace as President. To him — whose sentiments with rrgard to the Canal continued unchanged, and Ttho felt a deep interest in the question of its practicability, it could not but proTc ettremely gratifying to learn — that an Engineer, of estab- lished reputation for skill and experience, resided in Upper Canada ; and that his services might be procured for the examination of the Shubenaccadio. An application was ihcreforQ made by the President to Mr. Hall; and an assurance received from this Gentleman that, in the following Spring he woulil repair to ^ Halifax, and execute the survey. He accordingly proceeded hither ; and in the month of June last, inspected the whole Line —from Dartmouth to the Basin of Mines — with tbe greatest care : — ascertained the depth of the Lakes and different Channels — the sources for supplying the water requisite for the Lockage— the nature of the obstructions through the whole Valley — and the quality of the Soil and Rocks in those pnrts wliere artificial works would be necessary : proved the accuracy of the levels formerly taken : and selected the proper sites for the Locks, Excavation, Embankments, and other construc- tions which he considered necessary tor the completion of the Cnnal. Upon his return from this examination, and after completing the calculation i for forming a Navigation of the respective depths, of four feet and an half, and eight feet of water, and satisfying himself fully on all points connected with the operations through the whole line, he prepared his Report and Estimate (inserted above at page 18) with Plnn'* and Designs for the work ; and a most minute and particular Speciiicatinn of the mode of eiccuting every part of it. These papers, with theletter(at paj;^! 17) addressed to his Honor the President, and the Plan herewith, connected with the particulars already noticed, supply, in the fullest and most sati?factury manner, all the information necessary for deciding the Question — whether the Shubenaccadif. Navigation be a practicable measure, and within the limits of a reasonable Expense. Of thin a doubt ought not, now, to remain. The Report of Mr. Hall — the Opinion of Mr. Chapman — and the accuracy of Mr. Hildrith's Survey, confirmed, as to all the material parts of the Line, by Mr. Gill — are conclusive : — and must convince the most timid, that the Enterprise is alto- gether free from difficulty, and of easy accomplishment, in all that concerns the operative part ; and to an extent and of dimensions far beyond what its first Supporters thought either possible or expedient ; and for a sum, too, very greatly below the computations of the most sanguine. Indeed as respects the Expense, no uncertainty can exist; it is efTectuallyN removed by the explicit Tender of Mr. Hall, to procure the completion of the whole i ■ 3A Canal, in coiiforrr.ity to (he SpiKificatlon?, for flic sums fm bus stated: — aoi offor which attests hU confidence in the Prices nfiixed to the different pnrls of the work ; and his perfect reliance on the Results of hia own vory extensive Experience. A reCeroiice to liis Report will shew, ihat he had under his consideration two distinct Ftc-.Ios for the execution of the work — one adapted to a depth (A'/ottrfeet and nn half o{' Water — (he otlur to eight feet. The expense of the former he has fixed at .t! 14, IDG Currency', including (en per Cent for Contingoncie? — a som which, aUhongh ap{)aren(Iy far above Mr. Hildri(h'3 compu{aiion for a Canal of four feet, is in tru(h a close approximation to it— if (ho increase in price of wages and ma(erial9 since 1797 be considered ; as well as the different and very superior manner in which Mr. Hall, by the Specification, requires (he Locks Emhaiikmen(s and other works to be constructed. The Eslima(c"for compledng a Navigation of (he dep(h|of ci^/j« feet, in all par(s from the Harbour (o (he liasin of Mines, and of propor(ion8 in every way commensunUo, is £55,3-14, Currency; belong' an addition, of one fourth Illy, to the expense of a Comraunicadon of half the size— To ivhich of lese dimensions (ho preference should be given can hardly become a ques- on. When Mr. HildrKh was acquiring his practical knowledge o( Canals, :w or none had been cons(ruc(cd larger (haa (hat which he hasrecommend- » I; four feet being considered snfiicicnt for (he Barges in common use : Bat I the, more extensive adoption of thi^ method of conveyance, much incon- •^ -nience has resulted i'rora employing a small depth of water. It occasions id g oat a resistance (hat the Boats canno( pass wi(h a sp'jed exceeding about t -ee miles (he '.lour ; while, in a large and deep body of wa(er, the same <( xe will produce nearly twice ihat velocity. This increase becomes of great isequence vv!i?>rever the transportation required to be frequent. Besides in tl ; smaller Canals, even the ordinary rate of motion creates an agitation and I 'Tent which seriously injures their sides,— unless constructed in a very expen- 1\ i manner,— and occasions a continual outlay for Repairs. The Evapora- I \ also, from the shallow water, is found very many degrees beyond that to ' 'ch the deeper Canals are subject. And, indeed, of the very great nnmber I 'ch have been completed, there are few where it has not become, after i' i w years, a subject of constant regret to the Parties that too Confinerf a e^ale of Construction had been originally adopted. On these and other ; c lunts, the largest dimensions, which the Supply of Water will authorise p. 3 now preferred in the Planning of similar Works ; and are generally E 30 I \ m ••» iii found most advflntagcom to tlio Propiiotors— compcnuntiri? for the incrcnscil Exponse, by (ho redurtion of the Annual Rppulrs ; nnd Uy tho grcatcrXuM, ond facility of (ho Communication. Now all these considerations aro applicable to the Line of the Shubenac- cadie— for there tho Supply of Water for Lockage may be deemed unlimit- ed ; the whole extent of Kxcavation and Embankment, is but .'J800 yards ; and through «// (be remaining distance the depth of Water exceeds eight feet. To these inducements for adopting the encreased dimensions, on which the Estimate of £55,.! It is founded, the most powerful yet remains to be added— the certainty that thereby the Canal will bo navigable for Schooners of near 00 Tons Burthen— the class of Vessels commonly used in the Bay of Funday-which will then bo enabled to pass, with (heir Cargoes, to nnd from this Harbour, without delay or danr;er,-or even the inconvenience of a partial unlading. Next to the Expense nm] Dimemions of the Canal, the manner of passing Boats andVesselsthrough it, after its completion, appears the most material circumstance to be provided for. On this point difficulties had been appre- hended sufficiently numerous, if well founded, to render the Communication in a great measure unavailable. It was objected to the formation of a Regular Towing Path that it was.on the greater part of the Line, whcMy impracticable- or from the nature of the Shores of the Lakes, would be entirely useless : That these, during the greater part of the Season, are too much agitated by the strong winds prevailing throughout the Valley, to permit the safe and uninterrupted Passage of heavy laden Barges across their exposed sur- faces : and that with Sails the progress towards the Harbour must be slow and tedious, the wind blowing almost constantly from the Southward. These objections are doubtless greatly overrated; but they arc completely removed by the method which Mr. Hall suggests for carrying on the Navi- gation. This consists in the employment of Steam Boats for towiqg or tracking Vessels, Barges, &c. through the whole distance from Dartmouth Lake to the Bay-and it is evidently appropriate and effectual. He states that the Voyage will, by their means, be effected in the short space of /Ifteen hours; and as the Channel of the River is sufficicntFy wide for their use, and the Banks solid, there will result none of those injurious consequence* which have hitherto prevented the application of Steam Power upon the ordinary Canals :-the Lakes are in every part free to its operation ; and even in the artificial nortion nffho r.ino fh" ""♦->.-♦# -rr<..ii: i r- u i - — •' ■'■• v.air.iit ui v-uuiiig iirni Lmbank- *In the Third Section 1 100 yards : in the Second 1 not be required on the First Section. 1-. ,lv 100 yar>ls. The Tow Boats woiiJd )r the incrcnscd tliP grciiter'fuse, f the Sluibennc- (leemetl unlimit- ut 3C00 yards ; ceedg eight feet. s, on which the IS to be lidded — Doners of near in the Bay of ocs, to nnd from anvcnicnce of a inner of passing most material ad been tippre- Communication on of a Regular impracticable — ntirely useless : much agitated mit the safe and exposed sur- r mast be slow fic Southward, arc completely )g on the Navi- for towiijg or om Dartmouth lal. He slates space of fifteen for their use, s consequences ower upon the operation ; and g ririti Embank- Tow Boats woiiid 37 i mcnl is compariitively so iihoil, that ihvre it will not be found diilicult to secure the VVidia ng.iinst the cfTects of too rapid a motion. Ilia rccom- mcndation, thereforo, whether considered with reference to its fjicicnnj, or tu the moderate expense allunding its adoption, suppl ^ all that was uncertain in this particular. « As connected with fllr. Hall's Report there remains Mi , ,r,rj iHcii ii men: ux: luc cuu»equeGee3 or 11 '[»!' ^ m . Hi ■ 'i ' ■'■liJJji iil :1 40 the execution of the Canal, they rank high on the list of its anticipated Benefits. 2d. The situation of the Port of Halifax. — If we advert to the manifest supe- riority which our Harbour holds — overall others in this Quarter of the World — in point of safety — of convenience of access at all seasons of the year — of rela- tive position, and proximity to the neighbouring Provinces — and particularly in reference to the communication with the Mother Country and the Sugar Colonies,— it must be admitted that no Seaport of North America is in any degree so favourably situated as this, for becoming the centre of a most exten- sive Commerce, with all parts of the old and new Continents ; none where so many circumstances combine together in laying the foundation of its future Importance and Prosperity. A glance at the Map of North America will confirm this assertion. The observer will instantly select this az a principal and commanding Station for Naval and Commercial Enter- prise ; as the Emporium of the British North American Possessions ; and for the Key to their security. And, now, to bring all these, the substantial materi- als of Wealth and Greatness, into form, proportion and effective usefulness, the Mother Country, nobly dissolving the Bonds of that hateful Monopoly, imder which the Colonies have been so long depressed — has bestowed the Gift of Commercial Freedom, with such full and liberal concession, that every local advantage may be confidently reckoned upon, in estimating the advancement reserved for this favored Province. Under the new System, now just commenced, Halifax, has acquired the privileges of a Free Port — a distinction due to the position it occupies, cind leading directly to the most important consequences. Its Harbour is now declared the Mart for the Imports and Exports of the whole Province ; and will undoubtedly become the Centre of all its Commercial transactions — the Point where the Coasting Trade will unite, and to which the Produce of that most valuable Branch of our Industry , the Fisheries, will continually be attracted by the Competif on about to arise between our own and foreigu Shipping, — for com- modities which now, for the first time, both are alike permitted to transport from hence to other Countries. Here also we shall see established, what the severity of their Climate renders indispensable to the Canadas during half the year — a Depot, for that part of their Produce which is destined for the West Indies or Foreign Markets — and for those supplies, which a dangerous or obstructed Navigation renders at one time uncertain, at another inadequate to their immense consumption. To these grounds for believing Halifax will (joon hold the first Rank among the Colonial Free Ports, may be added those which the Cana!?7v«fi^wi!! furuish. To make the subject more distinct we •fits anticipaletl e manifest supe- r of the World — J year — of rela- md particularly and the Sugar merica is in any of a most exten- none where so ion of its future li America will select this ao mercial Enfer- issions ; and for bstantial materi- ;live usefulness, eful Monopoly, -has bestowed jral concession, n, in estimating he new System, 1 FiiEE Port — directly to the i the Mart for ill undoubtedly ^oint where the it most valuable ittracted by the ping, — for corn- ed to transport lished, what the DAS during half destined for the ch a dangerous ther inadequate ing Halifax will be added those iorc distinct we 41 will suppose—that the Waters of the Basin of Mines discharged thcmselrpi into this Harbour by a Stream broad, deep, and navigable in its whoJd extent by Sea Vessels of the largest size used in the Coasting Trade :— and we would ask, what under such circumstances might not this Place become ? would it not be the Shipping Port of the Bay of Funday? would it not possess a continuous line of internal Navigation far beyond what any but Rivers of great magnitude afford? and would not every part of the whole Country thus connected by it maintain, by means of its Channel, a constant unin- terrupted communication with the Town? and exult in the possession of a [highway so safe, direct and commodious ? Yet the Canal, when constructetl rof suitable dimensions, will be equally and perhaps more advantageous. Free |from the inconvenience which the Current of a powerful River occasions, jit will admit Schooners of large size to pass through, and thus, if necessary fcircumnavigate the Western Division of the Province : It will afford, to those lowned on the Basin of Mines, a shorter passage in proceeding to or returning Ifrom the Fisheries, or foreign voyages, and permit them to bring to this jHarbour, for exportation to the Mother Country, the Timber, Spars, Deals^ Staves and Lumber, which are here always in the greatest request for the Ships employed in that Branch of Business— or the Gypsum, which although lighly valued in the American States, hgs hitherto produced to its Carriers from the Bay no adequate return for their labour— or the Coal, which already iiscovered in many localities on the Shubenaccadie, and throughout the Settlements of Stewiack, Onslow, and Londonderry must soon become a very JnsideraWe Export under the operation of the Free Port System ;— or the numerous other articles of domestic produce which the Interior can furnish. In short, it will unite the Northern and Southern Division of Nova Scoti», by removing the Barrier which now separates them ; and make it the desire— Wause it will then become the interest~of their respective Inhabitants to unite in closer correspondence and more extended dealings. Without, there- fore, enlarging further on the advantages expected from the Measure under discussion-considered with reference to the position, present Situation, and prospects of Halifax-what has already been suggested will justify tU assertion that, after a very few years, the Caxal will render a« that nature has done for this Port-all that the new and liberal policy puts within our Teach-all that our Industry or Enterprise can accomplish-infinitely more' valuable and important than, without it, they can possibly be ; and produce. - n connexion with them. Results the most beneficial both to Individuals and the Public. -^ 2vd. The SeaUment and more extended Cultivation of the Interior.^Thes9 ifi a \t . i I'lm '' 1 r '^ jl •'* -■sw objects cannot b<^ more cffsctii-ttly promotcrl, than by providing good Roiifia H, br other mc;ins of Confimunicalion, through the different p;ir(s ofllie Country, to those Points where a deinnnd exists for agiicultujal or other produce. CoDvinced of this the Colonial Lcgishiture, at an early period, adopted the Road Service as the favorite subject of appropriation ; and such it will probably long continue uith the popular Branch of the Assembly. The wis- dom of that policy is now apparent not only in tlie extent and general excel- lence of the Highways throughout the Province — but also fronj the very rapid increase of its Inhabitants— and the general improvement of the Farming Counties. The large sums annuaHy voted for roads and bridges, (to art extent which until very lately none of the other Colonies have imitated) operate as direct and effectual Bounties to the Agricultural interest ; and have materially conduced to its present state of advancement. Similar consequences, but in far greater proportion, will follow from opening the Canal. To all the Districts within the circle of its influence, it will affotd greater facilities, than the best Uiude I^oad, for the transportation of the heavier Produce 5 and to all the Settlers near its Course it will enlarge the field of industry — by enabling them to convert into Merchandize toimy Articles which are now an encumbrance. The Wood, which covers the immense Tracts of excellent Land at present lying in a state of Wilderness on the Bay and its Rivers — or which occupies the larger Portion of the Set- tletnents in that quarter — is destroyed in the process of Clearing the Soil, because it is now not worth the price of conveyance to Market. And for the same reason they neglect their Lime and other Building Materials — all objects of great consumption in Halifax. To introduce, then, the convenience afforded by Water Carriage will be — to promote, just as good Roads have done, the formation of new Settlements— to increase the Population — to enlarge the space and degree of cultivation — to raise the value of Landed Property and its produce — to create new object* for labor — and to open up to the Inhabitants, whether Farmers or otherwise every Channel in which their Industry can be profitably employed. This Enquiry, as to the Public benefit from the Canal, might be pursued still further ; but it is presumed it already appears — that its Execution will confer great permanent and public benefit on the Agriculture, internal Trade and general Commerce of this Province; that it will materiajly re dirce the price of carriage — thereby allowing the supply of commodites on far better terms than at present ; that it will advance the wealth and strength of the Province by increasing the quantity of its Produce and Exports, and by employing a greater number of Vessels and Ijuborers ; — that it will preserve 4? iding good nosifla i nftlie Country, other produce, liod, adopted the and such it U'ill mbly. The wis- nd general excel- m the very rapid of the Farming I bridges, (to art s have imitated) id interest ; and ;ement. Similar rom opening the iifluence, it will transportation of •se it will enlarge irchandize invny vhich covers the ate of Wilderness ortion of the Set- Jlearing the Soil, [arket. And for ng Materials — all arriage will be — ew Settlements — of cultivation — to eate new objectsr lers or otherwise doyed. night be pursued ts Execution will iculture, internal f materiajly re dirce mmodites on far alth and strength I Exports, and by U it will preserve •^ tlie public Roads and reduce the Expense of their Repairs ; — that it will find employment, constant and immediate, for vast numbers of People ; — that the minerals so abundant in the Province will be worked ; — that the Revenue will be benefited ; — and lastly — that by opening so cheap and extensive a com- munication between the Interior and the Canital under its new privileges, — the necessaries of life will be kept at their fair prices, and free from the fluctua- tions they have sometimes undergone from the state of the Intercourse with the Country. We pass to the other branch of Enquiry — the Returm of Profit to the Parties individually. Upon this point all — whose homes are fixed in the Province, or whom a long residence has identified with its Interests, or who hold real Estate at Halifax, or el?-.3where within the influence ofthisnavi- ation — will demand few stronger assurances of remunerations than have been already given — by detailing the Public benefits to result from the work: since these cannot be secured without a corresponding advantage, during the process, to the Proprietors of the Canal. Besides to the Land Owner, if no- thing were returned in the shape of Interest upon his advances, the in- creased value of his property, in consequnoe of the measure, would prove a Compensation sufficiently ample. But to Individuals without local Interests or warm attachment to the Colony, who are invited to associate m the Execution of the Plan, there can exist no other inducement to engage in it, than the prospect of receiving a fair Interest for their Investments; These Persons therefore, before they adventure, will ask something more definite than the Public Results, however certain, which have been already mentioned: — they will require particular information as to the nature, extent and value, of the expected Canal Trade: — and look to be as fully satisfied, oa these point?, as the nature of the subject permits. This it is preeumed may be done, in some degree, by enumerating the Articles to be conveyed upon the Line of this Navigation. They consist of Timber, Spars, Logs, Deals, Lumber, Staves, Hoops, Shingles, and Wood for Building and Fuel — of Cattle, Hay, Flour and Meal, Grain, Potatoes, and other Agricultural Produce — of Bricks, Stone, Slates and Lime for Building— of Gypsum and Coal, and other Articles — from the Country :— -and, from Halifax, of the various Commodities which will be sent, in return for the preceding, to an amount certainly equalling, but most probably far exceeding, their Taltiie. In this List there are some articles requiring particular notice. It has been said — that in the Valley of the Shubenaccadie, Wood ^fit for Tiaiber or other purpose?,, was extremely scarce and diflicult to be pro I I - I,! '«?: . *(■' ,... . 1 i! ti^ '' f '!'• >|| m i • f '-^ » 44 cared. This is a groij mistake: if the information of Experienced I.and Surveyors, and other intelligent Men acqminted with the Country, (upon whose report the Description, given in the foregoing pages, was framed) can be at all depended upon. And, if the fact were otherwise as respects the River side, there still remains an almost inexhaustible supply on the North Shores of the Basin of Mines, and in the other places before mentioned. But it is in truth beyond a doubt that an immense abundance of Wood, for the various objects above named, exists near the Canal Line ; and will, by its means, be brought to the Capital for many years to come, and in quantities commensurate with the Demand— affording to Parlies engaged in the Timber Trade, the great saving and convenience of loading their Cargoes in this Port; and enabling our Mechanics to include the Business of Ship Building among their regular pursuits. The prepress of the large vessels, now con- structing at Dartmouth, has proved that this important Branch of Industry may be followed here to great advantage ; the vVood and Timber it ^ requires being procured at a low rate, and in unlimited quantity, from the Vicinity of the Harbour. In addition to the supply necessary for those two objects, there is another great cause of demand for VVood and Lumber— its yearly increasing consumption in the Town for Building and other purposes. We have also in the West indies a market for all the Boards, Staves, Shingles, &c. which this Country can furnish. Thus whether for exportation or domestic use, and either in a rongh or manufactured state, the Produce of our Forests will descend the Canal to Halifax ; to an extent far beyond the computations of men unacquainted with the Interior, The dependance on Agriculture, for fully employing the Navigation, rests on considerations which fully justify it. The Experience of the last five years proves the great advance already made, by the Province, from a state of absolute dependence on other Countries for one of the first necessaries of Life. Our Soil and Climate stand redeemed from the charge of being unfavorable to the growth of Grain. And the recent Improvements in Til- lage, — the increased Industry of the People — and the fertility of the Alluvial Lands around the Bay — are annually producing such returns as leave, particularly in the older Settlements, a large disposable Produce. With such favorable prospects, the Agricultural Interest is now secure ; and, in the naturarprogress of events, will keep pace with the rapid increase of the Population and growth of the Interior. It cannot retrograde. Even now, under the present expensive mode of conveyance. Grain, Flour, and Meal come hither during the Winter, and are bought up with avidity x—Hayy of •rienced liam! oiintry, (upon was framed) 36 as respects iupply on the ore mentioned. Wood, for the nd \vill, by its d in quantities in the Timber [Cargoes in thii )f Ship Building sels, now con- ich of Industry ind Timber it ntity, from the ry for Ihosft two nd Lumber — its other purposes. Boards, Staves, for exportation 3, the Produce tent far beyond 'Navigation, rests of the last five ;, from a state of it necessaries of charge of being ■ovements in Til- ty of the Alluvial iturns as leave, Produce. With secure ; and, in •apid increase of ade. Even now, Flour, and Meal vidity : — Hay, of 45 which the consumption in this Town is very great, is supplied principally from Places within 45 or 60 miles ; rarely from a greater distance-the expense of Carriage prohibiting our receiving it from Cornwallis, Cumber, land or the North Shores of the Bay-where it is cheapest and most abundant. Potatoes and other Vegeialles are under the same exclus.on As the Freight of all these by the Canal would be barely one twent.eth of the Land Carriage for 50 miles, the former would be constantly preferred for their conveyance. It may also be expected that, in this way. some portion of the large number of Cattle, Sheep, 4-c. required for tne Marke of Halifax, and its Naval and Military Establishments, will be conveyed from the Shores of the Bay-thus avoiding the fatigue and injury ansmg from the Land Journey. Should this be the case, another source of Pro6t will be opened to the Proprietors of the Navigation. Coal and Lim. have, in many cases, been considered of themselves suffi- cieatly important to sanction undertakings far more expensive thanth.s-and on everyLm., where they can be worked,they are esteemed its principal support. Here we add to these Gypsum and Um/ch.^ Materials : and as each of them abounds throughout the Interior, the foundation of a Canal Trade of .m- „,ense extent and value is secured. The Coal of Cumberland has been often used • that of Parrsboro'-Londonderry and Onslow bU.sligbly exammed : It appears- excellent. Its Localities on the Stewiacke and Shubcnaccadie are re- cent discoveries : but they are so frequent there, and through the rest of the District of Colchester, that it may be considered a continued Coal- Field. The supply of this article to Halifax is of the first consequence ; and any measure, tending to reduce its price, must greatly interest the Inhabitants. It is believed that, from the source now referred to. Coal ot the best quality can be brought, by means of the Canal, in quantity suffi- cientfor any demand, and at half its present cost. If this beso-and ap. pearances warrant the expectation-the conveyance of Fuel alone w.ll support the Communication. Gypsum, as has been before stated, composes the Banks of the River. It can therefore be easily transported to the larbour ; and, being in request in the United States, will not fail to enter largely into the Exports to that Country. Bricks ^nd Building materials are most extensive objects of water conveyance-For matrtng the first both Clay and Sand, of the best kinds, are found on the Shores of the Basin and near the mouth of the Shubenaccadie, where their manufacture will employ many Laborers. The Lime, Slate and Freestone are easy of access ; and the »hole may be prepared, and disposed of here, at prices far below what they have hithert.) born«5 ; thus reducing the present expense of Buildings I !! < \ I i..J 46 and leading to the rapid enlargement and improved appearance of the Town ; to which the heavy coft of those articles, or the difficulty of obtaining them have hitherto proved most serious obstacles. Here, further enumeration of the Articles to be brought towards fliilifiix becomes unnecessary. It has been shewn tlmt the great Staples furnished by the Forest, by Agriculture, by the Mines and (Quarries, and by miinufuc- turing Industry in its ruder Branches, will all contribute extensively to the descending Trade ; and do, in fact, at this moment, depend upon opening the Canal for their Prosperity : it migijt be siud — Agriculture excepted — for their existence. We therefore venture to assert — without speculating on the amount which each will give, but taking the whole collevtively — that the value of Property brought down the Canal will be immense. The whole Results of the productive labour of the Population, within its influence, we attempt not to estimate. It is beyond computation : and, however limited be the transac- tions of each Individual, their sum total would present a most imposing ap- pearance. But, to the value, whatever it be, which we assign to the com- modities brought (o Halifax, we have also to add the Returns sent /rojn hence to an equal if not far greater amount. These form the Freight upwards. The aggregate of the whole, stated in figures, will reach to very many thousands of Pounds ; and yearly receive large accessions from the jil^| p^ '\of a rapidly advancing People, and the power of Cultivation. - Now — whatever be the Sum attached to this aggrega' ':-^it enables us to compute the probable yearly receipts from the Canal. This may be done by charging the Goods that pass through it — taking them on a general Scale — with a reasonable per centage upon their respective values for the Expense of their Carriage, therein including all the Freight, Tolls or l^abor attending the Transit. Let it therefore be supposed that the Country supplies the Town with Commodities, to the annual value of ^^30,000 ; and that an equivalent to the same amount is returned ; — the Estimate might stand thus — For Lime, Coals, Gypsum, Hay, &,c. to the extent of £10,000 cost of Conveyance from 30 to 50 per Cent— average 40 per Cent, £4,000 . For Timber, Ijumber, Wood, &c. to the value of £10,000— 20 per Cent, 2,000 For Grain, Flour, and other Agricultural Produce, to the value of£lO,000— 10 per Cent, 1,000 For Goods to the value of 30,000 sent from the Town, RYerage Freight — 5 per Cent, . - 1 ,500 Probable Annual Re turns, .... £C,500 * Those S.,ms, it is manifest, art assumed merely for the sake of illustration ; and without the thought that they denote the prohable value of the Canal Trade, or (ho proportions the various Articles composing it may bear tp e.ch other-allhou-rh perhaps the a.^igned expon-e of Conve.vance may prove nearly correct. Nor would it be reasonable, after the Intercourse Is fairly established, to estimate the first cost of ihe supplies from toe Interior at a sum so lozo as £30,000-it being entirely disproporlioned to the Demand in Halifax, and to the Ability and productive powers of the Country. Toe Annual charge for maintaining the Canal may be thus stated- Interest of 60,000 at 6 per Cent, Repairs and Expenses of Management, . . • Expense of two Steam Tow Boats, viz. Wages 15s. per day, or £4 per week, £234 Fuel £3 7 6 for 200 days, 675 Repairs, 5 per Cent on cost £2000 100 £3,600 2,000 £1,009 X 2 = 2,018 e Total Expense, £7,618 1.500 Thesa allowances are probably too large; but taken as they stand, and supposing the Receipts equal to £8,500, a Balance of Profit would remain amounting to £872 beyond the Interest. To conclude this Discussion :-The benefits which the Proposed Com- munication offers to the Public, and to the Individuals who complete it, may be thus summed up :-To ihe former it presents advantages of the most enlarged, beneficial, and durable Character-certain in their attainment and indispensable to the Provit.ce. To the lattcv it affords every reasonable assurance that their advances will, in the beginning, return them the common Interest, and ultimately become a roost profitable investment. The Progress which this Colony has made, in the short space of seventy-five years, since its first Settlement, arl under the innumerable difficulties to which it has hitherto been subject— creates a confidence in our anticipations of its now more extensive and immediate advancement ; and sanciions every Argument that has been thence adduced to prove the Importance of the Canal to all— and the ceriam^*/ of eventual and most ample remuneration to the Proprietors. It is an Enterprise inseparably connected with, and wholly dependant on, the common Prosperity : and— unless gi8lature ; and await their decision 9 of our Nelgh- liil Expcndilurc, sicrnlily. Aa a 11(1 Usdiilncsd,'— linrly belongs to e completed by the Province.—* nhabitants. none lie devoted to a 'uturc Revenue, of the Province, le Undertaking. 3on the System tent of Artificial try, or perhaps resent Manufac- resorted to, the d bestowed the I : so that here ly will not be s the Associates nicicnt (o afford pany be formed al at £75,000 ; the Canal — for -and for other ;gested that the s may, if they >uld then consist Friends of the :e6s, be Invited of their Capi- which we are er understood That the Sub- ommon anxiety ire alive to its they also deem t their deci«ion 49 and declared auppori of it, as Preliminaries to Individual Con trihut lout. To that Honorable Body therelore, In Its approaching Session, the Eyet of ajl are anxiously directed ; expecting- from deliberations whose end and purpose is the common Cood— an acknowledgment of the Public Character of the proposed Navigation, and of its Right to participate in that munifi- cence, with which the General Assembly has constantly supported the Communications of the Interior. On the manner in which that 'encouragement may be best bestowed it is unnecessary to enlarge—It will doubtless be conferred in the way most conducive to the advancement of the Enterprise. Nor will it be for- gotten that, when the Bill of 17D3 was introduced and nearly passed, its Basis was—the Union of the Interests of the Associates with those of the PuMic. It provided for the Appointment of Commissioners, with authority to take shares, to a certain extent, on behalf of the Province ; and to represent it in the Association : thus securing— to the Legislature, that Control which it ought to possess over all measures so closely interwoven as this with the daily Intercourse and affairs of the Commo- nity— and to the Treasury, an etjual participation with private Sub- scribers in the ultimate Profits. Great and obvious advantages attend this method. If now adopted, the Enterprise, to the eyes of strangers, will stand invested with a Credit and Importance, denied to it as the Under- taking of Indiviiluals unsupported by the Guardians of the Common Wel- fare : and the Company, within two years (the time required by the Engi- neer for completing the whole work) will be enabled to realise the general expectation of its advantages. None can question the ability of this Province to assume a third, or much larger Portion, of the Stock of the Association ; and to provide, without inconvenience to the public Service, the payments on the Shares held by the Commissioners. Let then this way of encouraging a great and most useful Undertaking be pursued. Let the Province become interested, to at least 781 7 ,^ ,591 2 3 1559 2 2 ,150 -4 5 3 HALL. le Waters of fFundy. [©ward Douglas, pom Cumberland 'M e Gulph of St. M : River, to Cum- etilcodiuc Rivei; ;s navigable, at half tides, to its great bend at Babineaux margh, distance 20 miles. The principal intricacy attending this navigation occurs at Stony Creek, where upon the right bank of the River, a rocky ledge runs out to some extent ; the opposite banks and bottom are composed of clay and soft mud ; the bed of the Petitcodiac above Fort Folly, is abandoned by the tide at low water, thereby reducing the duration of transit to six hours each tide. From the bend of the Petitcodiac at Babineaux marsh, the canal line pro- ceeds nearly one mile through flat dyke land, ascending gradually about sixty feet through Woodland, to the head of Hults' Creek ; from thence in a north east direction for seven miles, upon a high table summit, apparently from ninety to one hundred feet above the tide waters in Chignecto Bay, Again descending regularly to the main branch of the Scoudic River, crossing this stream, and following the valley near its left bank, to Scoudic Bridge, where the tide waters of Shediac Bay, rise four feet during neap tides, The present channel from the Bridge to anchorage ground in Shediac Bay, is extremely crooked, and irregular in depth ; the distance from four feet water at neap tides to thirteen feet water, is one and a half mile. Total distance, &c. from anchorage ground in the Petitcodiac, to thirteen feet water in Shediac Bay is thirty six miles and a half. The most serious objection to this route, appears to be the extent of Lockage ; and a deficiency of water supply for the summit Level ; as no streams of any consequence are to be met with upon. this summit. The Scoudic of itself, without very capacious reservoirs, would be found insufficient to provide for evaporation and absorption. The Petitcodiac line having presented nothing of a very favourable nature for a Canal communication, my attention was led to explore the proposed route « by the Slemramcook River. . Description ok the Memramcook Route. This Line will commence at Shediac Bridge, where the channel of the Scoudic River will require to be deepened, and the width encreased ; pursuing the bed of this River for two miles, to a ravine near Underwoods House, apparently the only practicable point to diverge from the River ; pursuing the Line as surveyed by Mr. Minette, to the summit of an undulating tabic land, elevated ninety feet above the water m Chignecto Bay. Cori- tinuing by nearly a straight Southerly course, for four miles to the Banks 6G -■ir- :M/'^ !:r I I ■'*•: 4 ^i ^M^ ■ ■•' ^ » of the Scoutlic River, where an extensive Embankment will be required, a» least twelve feet in height, nnd nearly two miles in length. From this river proceed by a south west direction across several high ridges, and by deep cutting for nearly three miles, to the main branch of the Memramcook River, which must be passed by a large aqueduct. The banks of this River are so precipitous for five miles, as to render the formation of a Cantil very expensive. The course will then pass near Richibucto Bridge, continuing nearly parallel with the Memramcook, and joining the same at, Charters Bridge ; foHowingthe convolution^ of the River to anchorage ground at Fort Folly. Total distance twenty nine miles and a half The heights and difficulty of providing [adequate water supplies, for this Line of Canal, being so similar to that of the Petitcodiac, the Reporter con- sidered it unnecessary to bestow more time with either the above routes, until a Line by the Bay Verte was explored. Description of the proposed Route between Cumberland Basin AND THE Bay Verte, After a careful Examination of the various summits aud outlets, between (he BayofFundy and the Bay Verte, the Reporter proceeded to Survey that Line which presented the fewest difficulties ; commencing at x\u Lac River, nearly three miles and an half above its junction with the Tantamar, where in ordinary Tides a depth of twenty five feet Water will be obtained. The spot chosen for diverging from the River, is favourably situated for Entrance Locks and Basins ; the Scil is composed of a strong Alluvial Clay ; the Subsoil of a lighter nature, but sufficiently retentive to warrant Excavation, ,and Embanking with common Slopes. From the Entrance Lock and Basin, the Canal Line will proceed in nearly a direct course upon the left Bank of Au Lac River, marked with a single blacklineuponMr. Minett's Map, passing several Farms and accommodation Roads of level ground, to Lock No. 2, or Summit Level ; continuing upon this Summit and adhering to hard ground upon the south side o^Brownal's Marsh, then through Woodland by moderate cutting to the Bay Verte and Fort Cumberland Road ; pass the same by a Drawbridge, proceed by a curved line across the dividing ridge, between the valliesof AaLac andMissiguash. Continue upon the highest part of the Missiguash Marsh, bearing upon aza T \,ii32 rcjectisjg points of hard land, a iiiile north of Mr. Minnett's Line ; from thence proceed by moderate cutting to Lock No. 3, then with several t be required, al 3SS several high lin branch of the uct. The banks er the formation jntinuing nearly barters Bridge ; d at Fort Folly. supplies, for this 10 Reporter con- ove routes, until ^LAND Basin ets, between the to Survey that t Au Lac River, 'antamar, where ained. )ly situated for Alluvial Clay ; ant Excavation, oceed in nearly ed with a single accommodation continuing upon le of'Brownal's Verte and Fort sd by a curved Mlssiguash. , bearing upon kiinnett's Line ; ?n with several 67 cuttings and embankments by Lock No. 4, to the junction with the Tide Waters in the Tignish River, at Lock No. 5. The average rise of Tide at this Point of the Tignish is six feet, and two feet medium depth of still water. The River course to the Bay Verte is very circuitous, distance to Roach's ferry is nearly four miles. At the ferry a good position for a Tide Lock and Waste Wear may be found, by which the waters of the Tignish will remMn at a fixed level. From this Tide Lock to Anchorage grousd in the Bay Verte, the Channel of the Tignish is sufficiently wide and deep at low water to admit Vessels of one Hundred Tons burthen. pi The extent of Artificial Navigation between Au Lac River aud the Tignish m is eleveA miles and two hundred and forty one yards. m The total distance from Anchorage at low water in the Tantamar, to Anchor- [age in^the Bay Verte is nineteen miles and a half. The difference of level between the highest observable tide in Cumberland I Basin, is twenty one feel, eight inches and nine tenths, above corresponding : Tides in the Bay Verte. m Medium Spring Tides in Cunriberland Basin, are sixteen feet, nine inches, ^and three tenths above those in the Bay Verte. Medium Neap Tides in Cumberland Basin, are four feet, nine inches and three tenths above those in the Bay Verte. ^ Bav Verte Canal. Expense of making a Canal between the Bay of Fundy and the Bay Verte, with eight feet depth of Water and according with the Specifications No. 7, including ten perCent for Contingencies, is £67,728 14 10 Expense of making a Canal between the Bay of Fundy and the Bay Verte, containing four and an half feet of Water, with corresponding Slopes and commensurate Locks, is 45 152 10 4 All the work may be finished in three Years from the date of the Contract, by adhering to either of the above proportions. Several improvements may hereafter be effected upon the Line Estimated ; ,^uch as the formation of a Towing Path, from the Canal entrance to the |iouthofthe Tantamar. Also an extra Entrance Lock as represented on l^^o. 5 drawing, Upon the Bay Verte side, the Summit Line may be continued to near '"I 'Ml' M-l i. I ' ?!)■■< Roaiih's Ferrjr ; but ae these extensions would in the first instance mutori.illjr affect the expense, they may be dehiycd until such time !is the C.inal transit will warrant their adoption. Byati examination of the Section it will appear, that nothing of an unfavotir- able or impracticable nature presents itself upon any part of this Route. That the greatgeneral objection to the admission of Tide Waters of different magnitudes into an artificial Canal, will be obviated by a substitution of fresli Water as the correcting medium. Water Supplies inay be obtained from the valley of the Blissiguasb, where excellent situations for capacious Reservoirs are to be found. The constructing of a Mead eighteen feet in height, and an hundred and fifty yards in length, immediately above the Portage Bridge, will flood an cic- tent of one hundred and fifty acres. This supply alone, without taking into consideration the natural drainage of this stream, will furnish fifty nine millions eight hundred and six thousantt cubic feet of water ; suppose that this reservoir will be filled by flood water only twice in one season, we have one hundred and nineteen millions six bun dred and twelve thousand cubic feet of disposable water. Now with a fair trade we may allow upon the Canal a transit of ten vessels ascending, aud the same number descending for one hundred and fifty days ; each vessel to require sixteen thousand cubic feet of water. We have there- fore forty eight millions cubic feet of Waste Water by Lockage, leaving seventy one Millions of cubic feet forevauortion and-^absorptron. From testimony of respectable and experienced Ship owners, it appears, !hat the entrance to the Canal on the Bay Verte side is safe and attended with DO difficulty. That the Cumberland Basin side is peculiarly adapted for shelt^.*' and accomodation i;* shewn upon No. o Map, On the whole, this Proposed Canal presents so many advantages and faci- lities of transit, wheu ^omptired with the probable expense ; that it is only necessary in demonstrinion, to examine a Map of the Country, to be convinced of the great and general imi>'»rtance of the measure. FRANCIS HALL, Engineer. Qjieenstoti, October 22, 1825. »^^^,VVV*l(W**VVVVVVV»iVVVVVVV>.V%/VVVVVV- vw\. wv% w*» i Data. Five. I #