The history of the first locomotives in America. From original ...

INTKODUCTION.
Croton Aqueduct commissioners, and its engineer for
tlie introduction and distribution of tlie water. In
1842 Mr. Allen became one of the proprietors of tlie
Novelty Iron "Works in New York. In this establishment
he continued as one of its managers and presi-
dent until 1870, when the works were closed. Prior to
Mr. Allen's connection with the Novelty Works, he was
president of the New York and_Erie Railroad , and was
consulting engineer of the road at the period of its
opening in 1845. In 1870 Mr. Allen became consult-
ing engineer of the East River Bridge , now in course of
construction, and which when completed will be looked
upon as a wonder of the age. Of this great work
"Washington A. Roebling, Esq., is chief engineer.
To Benjamin H. Latrobe, Esq., we are also largely
indebted for the fcarly history of the locomotive enter-
prise upon the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad; for the
drawing and fall description of the sailing-car, invented
by Mr. Thomas; and for the drawing of the little
experimental machine, built to demonstrate the prin-
ciple of the practicability of locomotives upon short
curves, and the subsequent results from them.
Mr. Latrobe has constantly been in active employment
upon some important public work in its engineer
department. Among which we name the Baltimore and
Ohio Railroad. In the service of this company he
entered in 1830 as a member of the corps of engineers.
In 1842 he was appointed chief engineer, and continued
iu that position until 1857. Since that time he has
rendered the road much valuable assistance as consult-
ing engineer. As chief engineer, Mr. Latrobe located
and built the railroad from Baltimore to Havre de
Grace, as a part of the Philadelphia, "Wilmington and
Baltimore Railroad, in 1835-37, and the Northwestern
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