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

76
HISTOKT OF THE FIRST LOCOMOTIVES IS AMEKICA.
locomotive was blocked up in our yard, and steam put to it from
our works, and it became the object of curiosity to thousands who
visited the works from day to day, to see the curious " critter "
go through the motions only, as there was no road for it about the
premises. After a short stay in New York, about the 1st of July,
it was shipped up the North River to Rondout, for the Delaware
and Hudson Canal Company, and thence by canal to Carbondale,
where it was tried upon their railroad at Honesdale, run a few
miles out upon the road, then taken off the track, the road not
being sufficiently strong to carry it. It was housed and held for
sale for many years."
So mucli, at present, for Mr. Matthew's letter upon
tlie first Englisli locomotive in America. To this
letter, however, we will hereafter again refer. Meantime,
for the information of such of our readers as may
not be acquainted with the character and reputation of
Mr. Matthew, we will refer to the following certificates
from prominent and well-known citizens
:
" New York, March, 1831.
" Mr. David Matthew has served an apprenticeship of four
years and eleven months in the steam-engine factory of the
"West Point Association, as a tinner and fitter-up, in course of
which time he has conducted himself to the entire satisfaction of
his employers, and I recommend him as a trusty and good workman.
"Wm. Kemble,
" Agent for the West Point Association."
" Albany, December 1, 1831.
" The bearer, Mr. David Matthew, has been employed to run
the locomotive De Witt Clinton on the Mohawk and Hudson Rail-
road, since the opening of the work. I have often been on the
engine with him, and seen much of his management and conduct
in reference to his business, and believe him to be a sober, indus-
trious man, and well qualified for such work. I think him very
prudent in managing an engine.
" John B. Jeevis,
" Chief Engineer Hudson and Mohawk Bailroad."
Digitized by Microsoft®