Herald Of The Valley

DOMESTIC.
Richmond, Dec. 24.
OPENING OF THE DOCK.
The work, which has so long engaged the attention of our citizens; and which at one time threatened to miscarry, for the want of friends and funds, has arrived at a crisis, which promises some reward at least for the exertions which have been devoted to it. Yesterday the Dock was opened. Two vessels were brought through the lock towards Rocketts, and towed up to the wharf which is formed at the extremity of 15th street. The spectacle was an animating one. Though the weather was gloomy, and the streets muddy, a large crowd was collected to witness the success of the experiment. The first vessel was a schooner, loaded--drawing perhaps about 8 feet water--with a flag flying at her topmast with the name of "Decatur" inscribed upon it. The other was a schooner of a larger class, but empty. They found not the slightest difficulty in ascending--and we understand, could with equal ease have been towed up to Mayo's bridge.
The experiment was gratifying to all who saw it. It was received with cheers and the discharge of cannon.
This work is not complete--but so far it is successful. The merchants anticipate much saving in the discharge of their cargoes, besides the convenience of superintending it. The vessels will be brought almost opposite to the very centre of the city.
There is another enterprize to be accomplished--The removal of the sand-bar near to Warwick, so as to admit larger vessels up to Rocketts--perhaps into the dock. This work has been tried twice, and twice failed--the causes it is useless to develop. But the success of the Dock must give a new spur to it. The Dock Company besides furnishes great facilities to it. Its mud machine already built, will enable them to clear out the bar with great ease, and with great expedition. All that is wanting, seems to be a spirit to commence it.