Reports on Canals, Railways, Roads, and Other Subjects, Made to "The Pennsylvania Society for the Promotion of Internal Improvement." by William Strickland, architect and Engineer, While Engaged in the Service of the Society

Philadelphia: H. C. Carey & I. Lea, 1826. Hardcover. Very Good. vi, 51, [1] p., 62 leaves of engraved plates, including 4 double-leaf plates (2 folded) containing 72 drawings, plans, and maps; 29 x46 cm. Contemporary half calf with plain boards. Printed paper label on front board. Errata slip tipped in following title page. Howes, S 1075. The Pennsylvania Society for the Promotion of Internal Improvement, organized in 1824, sent William Strickland (1787-1854) to England in 1825 to study the most recent developments in transportation engineering in order to improve the ability to travel and ship goods across the state. Over the course of the year, Strickland sent home reports on canals, railways, roads, and iron-making from Great Britain. After his return in Dec., he was appointed engineer of the Pennsylvania State Canal and his reports were issued in this volume. The great interest that it generated is indicated by the 2-page list of subscribers, among whom were canal companies (Delaware and Hudson; Chesapeake and Delaware; Union; Schuylkill Navigation Co.); the Carpenter's Co. of Philadelphia; the House of Representatives of the United States; and West Point Military Academy. A wonderful collection of early 19th-century transportation-related plates. A heavy book; for international shipping, it will have to be sent by priority international. The plate with drawing no. 50 (Locomotive Engine) has been replaced by a photostatic copy, folded. Otherwise, in Very Good Condition: cover is rubbed, with a few old small stains; minor loss at ends of spine; light foxing on text; a few plates are lightly soiled; otherwise, clean and tight.