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The Virginia Gazette
Richmond, Williamsburg, Richmond County, Virginia
What is this article about?
Extract of a 1773 letter from John Ballendine in London to a friend in Virginia, describing his study of canals in Britain for improving James River navigation and reporting the confirmation of the new Ohio province Pittsylvania, with Governor Wharton to be appointed and benefits to Richmond trade.
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Extract of a letter from Mr. John Ballendine, to his friend in Virginia, dated London, March 23, 1773.
As I landed first in Glasgow, I had the opportunity to take a full view of the grand canal from the Forth to the Clyde. I have examined also many canals and locks in England, have plans and models of all the necessary machines thereto belonging, and have engaged several ingenious mechanics to go out with me to Virginia. You may assure all your friends, that, if I live to get back, there is no doubt of removing the obstruction in James River, and rendering an easy communication up the same, to the great advantage of all concerned.
I can inform you, for certain, that the new province on the Ohio is confirmed to the proprietors, by the name of Pittsylvania, in honour of Lord Chatham. Mr. Wharton, from Philadelphia, will be appointed governor in a few days; all other appointments to be made by the king. The seat of government is to be fixed at the fork of the Great Kanawha and Ohio rivers, as I expected, from the situation of that country; by which you may judge of the great advantages that must arise to the trade at Richmond, as soon as a communication can be made so near that fine province. The new proprietors will contribute largely towards opening both James and Potomac rivers; and as soon as the principal and interest are repaid to the subscribers, the navigation of the rivers then to be free, only a small tax for repairs, &c.
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Where did it happen?
Domestic News Details
Primary Location
Virginia
Event Date
March 23, 1773
Key Persons
Outcome
confirmation of pittsylvania province; plans to remove james river obstructions and open james and potomac rivers for free navigation after repayment, benefiting richmond trade.
Event Details
John Ballendine reports viewing British canals, acquiring plans and mechanics for Virginia; assures success in improving James River. Informs of new Ohio province Pittsylvania confirmed to proprietors, honoring Lord Chatham; Mr. Wharton to be governor, seat at Great Kanawha and Ohio fork; proprietors to fund river openings.