When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Offered here is an original handwritten letter dated November 17, 1840, signed by Howard Stansbury, Captain in the U.S. Army Corps of Topographical Engineers, and addressed to Capt. W.G. Williams, General Superintendent of Public Works on Lake Erie.
This document represents early federal oversight of harbor infrastructure across the Great Lakes during a critical period of American expansion and commercial development.
✍️ Full Transcription
\"Cleveland, O. Nov. 17, 1840
Sir,
I have the honour herewith, to transmit a schedule of Public Property belonging to the several Harbours of River Raisin, Grand River, Cunningham Creek, Ashtabula & Conneaut respectively, as reported to me by Col. Henry Smith.
I am Sir
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
Howard Stansbury
Capt. Topog. Engrs\"
Addressed to:
\"Capt. W. G. Williams
Corps Topog. Engineers
Genl Supt. Public Works on Lake Erie
Buffalo, N. York\"
🧠 Historical Significance
This letter is part of the early administrative and engineering efforts that shaped the Great Lakes shipping network, a cornerstone of 19th-century American commerce.
The Corps of Topographical Engineers was responsible for:
The locations referenced—River Raisin, Grand River, Ashtabula, and Conneaut—were all key developing ports along Lake Erie during this period.
👤 About Howard Stansbury
Howard Stansbury (1806–1863) was a U.S. Army officer and one of the most important surveyors of the American West. He is best known for leading the government expedition to survey the Great Salt Lake and Utah Territory in the late 1840s.
This earlier 1840 letter captures him during his tenure working on Great Lakes engineering and harbor systems, prior to his western exploration fame.
📌 Condition
Original folded letter with expected mailing folds
Light toning consistent with age
Ink strong and fully legible
No major condition issues
A clean and displayable example.
📦 Provenance
From a long-held private collection of early American manuscripts and historical documents. First time offered for sale in over 50 years.
