DS, signed “Go: Washington” as president of the Potomack Company and “George Gilpin” and “John Fitzgerald” as directors, one page, 8.5 x 15.75, January 7, 1787. A handwritten chart headed “A Return of work done & Inches Bor’d under Alexander Pollock, Thomas Pollock, Robert Duke & James Hamilton, Overseers at Shenandoah Falls from the 29th Sept. to the 12th Nov. 1786 Inclusive.” On September 1, 1786, Washington wrote Gilpin and Fitzgerald that “I submit for consideration also, the propriety (if the waters should get low enough in the course of the Fall) of a thorough investigation of the River, by a skillful person, from the Shannondoah falls to Fort Cumberland at least; that by having the matter fully before us, we may be enabled to form some precise judgment of the difficulties which lie in the way, and prepare for them accordingly.” Washington formed the Potomack Company in 1785 to improve commerce through trade and transportation with a series of canals. His goal was to turn the Potomac River into a navigable trade route to the Ohio country. The most serious obstacles to overcome were five major rapids along the river. Shenandoah Falls, just below the town of Harper’s Ferry, had a drop of 15 feet over a mile-long stretch that required the clearing of a navigable sluice through the rapids. Borers were hired to excavate the locks of the canal. Crews consisted of unskilled laborers, skilled indentured servants, and slaves rented from nearby plantations. The Potomack Company depended heavily on slave labor to clear the river. In 1785, after attempting to use white indentured servants, the company’s directors decided to hire 100 Black slaves who were “more easily controlled than the common white hirelings and could be depended on in all seasons.” Although not identified as such, slaves undoubtedly are listed on this chart. Fifty-three names are listed, including the four overseers, 11 borers, 37 laborers, and a cook; the number of days worked ranged from 3 to 37 and there was a flat salary per month. Borers and laborers were paid the same, twice as much as the cook, with added payment to borers according to the number of inches bored. The total amount due was £112.18.1. below the chart: “We Do hereby Certify that the above work done and inches Bor’d is just and true.” Washington, Gilpin, and Fitzgerald have signed a panel on the reverse authorizing payment of £112.18.1.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds (separations with archival repairs) and scattered light toning, soiling, staining, and handling wear. The signatures are bold, clean, clear, and unaffected. JSA/John Reznikoff Auction LOA and RRAuction COA.
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