Scope and Content Note
An Electrical Inspector employed by the Superintendent of Public Works kept this correspondence file documenting Barge Canal construction, especially concerning work on electrically-operated locks.
The correspondence includes: Electrical Inspector's reports to the Superintendent, comprising the bulk of the series; correspondence to the Electrical Inspector from companies supplying machinery or parts; and informational copies of mostly routine letters from the Superintendent to other employees or companies.
The correspondence concerns such subjects as: results of inspections, e.g. discovery of faulty capstan motors in canal locks; water levels in canals; cost and purchase of machinery, parts, and supplies; progress of construction work; need for and installation of lights; readiness of locks for navigation; damage, wear, and repairs to machinery; appointment, salaries, and training of lock employees; and operating procedures for locks, e.g. responsibilities of lock employees.
The New York State Archives is part of the Office of Cultural Education, an office of the New York State Education Department.
To report technical problems with this web site, please contact the New York State Archives at ARCHINFO@mail.nysed.gov