Scope and Content Note
These are expense accounts of James Geddes and others for surveying and other services to the "Commissioners for the consideration of all matters relating to the inland navigation of the State between the Great Lakes and the Hudson River." A law of 1811 (Ch. 88), entitled "An Act to provide for the improvement of the internal navigation of the States" appointed commissioners and authorized them to employ engineers, surveyors, and others needed to carry out this law. A law of 1810 (Ch. 193:43) authorized the commissioners to be appointed by the legislature to receive money from the treasurer, on warrant from the comptroller, for money spent in carrying out their duties.
The individual expense accounts include a detailed report of the activities and expenses of James Geddes. There is also an audited account of the Commissioners' expenses. The accounts usually give the name of the person making the report; the date; and the reasons for each payment.
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