Alabama state intelligencer., 1831-06-01
WASHINGTON. May 10. 1Ss

WASHINGTON, May 10, 1881 Our Grand Cdnal.-We have at length had opportunity of passing up the Chesapeak and Ohio Canal, as7ar as the Great Falls of the Potomac be- ing something than half of the distance that it is navgable. What we have of it hos fill ed us with admiration of the grandeur of the enter prize, and the boldness and skill with which it has far, been carried into execution It exhibits In- deed one of the nobest conquests that we can ina zine of art over nature The craggy rocks have been subdued, and the valleys lifted up, to form commodious passage for the fruits of mans industry to the markets of the world. It is impossible for any thinking man to look at this wonderful work, and in imagination to pursue it along its progress to its termination, without deep conviction of the impor tant political as well social 6enefs which may be anticipated from it. Let him then consider that three years ago the first contract for the construction of the work had not been entered into and he can hardly credit his senses when he peceyes how much has been already accomplished Tn an undertaking which was but few years before regarded by many but as the wild dream of visionary enthusiasm. It is not easy to imagine more delightful excur- sion for pleasure at this of the year, than that in theS Sanal packet-boat, to the Falls or even to SenedH The boat is very handsomely fitted and furnished for the service it is employed in and in visiting the Falls, the Cromnelin Hotel affords most accommodating resting-place. We recom- mend the aunt to readers who can spare time and means for such enjoyment. The grandeur of the scenery through which the Canal passes, and
 
 the qualification of curiosity in seeing the Canal, will afford them ample compensation for the time which they will spend in the journey
 Along the whole line of the Canal we observe not single defect, any evidence of their having beenany. The hands at some of the locks are not as dexterous in the management of them, perhaps, as longer practice will make them. The passenger who is not on his guard, may chance thus to get q jolt or two; but as this involves no danger, he will not regard if. The bridges over the Canal are few; and moderate inclination of the body enables those who stand the roof Cor dcck) of the boat to pass under them; whilst those who remain in the cabin are as much at ease and as comfortable as if they were in their parlors or drawing rooms at home.- The packet-boat is drawn by three horses, at the rate of six miles hour whilst in motion. The passage of the locks of course, some deten ton, but made the whole passage to the Falls, with about seventy persons on board, in less than four hours. The number of locks from Georgetown to Crommein is twenty, of which sixteen in use. The distance ascended by the Canal to over reach the Great Falls, is a hundred and sixy-one feet above tidewater being the most expensive and difficult work upon the line. Four locks more are passed to arrive at the aqueduct which crosses the Seneca Creek, and only seven more to reach liar per's Ferry.
 The ascent from tide-water to Cumberland is es- timated at 5S6 feet So that the lockage from tide water to Crommelin is than fourth of what will be required for the whole distance to Cumber- land.-Ndt. Int.