Research

Scope and Content Note

Correspondence files concerning construction, repairs, or improvements on new or existing bridges over canals, waterways, and streets document the State Engineer and Surveyor's responsibilties for the state's transportation infrastructure.

The files contain incoming and outgoing correspondence among state engineers, bridge builders, and suppliers; and a few blueprints and plans for work to be done.

The correspondence concerns: awarding of contracts; approval of plans by State Engineer and Surveyor; specifications; methods of construction; materials to be used (metals, parts, paint, etc.); span lengths, dimensions, angles, etc.; structural load capacity of bridges; testing or inspection of materials; progress of work; flaws in work or materials; and costs.