Caffrey and Carpenter versus Wellington Gordon exhibit book, 1847-1854

Access and use

Location of collection:
Library of Virginia
The Library of Virginia
800 East Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Archives Reference Services
Phone: (804) 692-3888

Summary

Creator:
Fauquier County (Va.) Circuit Court
Language:
English

Background

Scope and content:

Caffrey and Carpenter versus Wellington Gordon exhibit book, 1847-1854, records contracts, proposals from various companies, and specifications related to the construction of dams and locks for a canal along the Rappahannock River. It was used as evidence to prove Gordon's failure to complete construction of the canal.

Biographical / historical:

An act of the General Assembly passed 9 February 1811 authorized formation of the Rappahannock Company for the purpose of opening and improving navigation of the Rappahannock River from the basin at Fredericksburg to the mouth of Carter's Run in Fauquier County. Construction on the canal was intermittent over the next thirty years due to natural and financial obstacles. Wellington Gordon was hired as contractor to complete the project but resigned in 1847 November after a severe flood caused serious damage to the canal. Caffrey and Carpenter was one of the companies contracted by Gordon to work on the Rappahannock Canal.

Acquisition information:
This item came to the Library of Virginia in shipments of court papers from Fauquier County.
Physical location:
State Records Center - Archives Annex, Library of Virginia
Physical description:
1 v.