A STATISTICAL ACCOUNT OP THfi 



munication, between the cities of Philadelphia and 

 New York, is recently finished. It is situated at Mor- 

 risville, and near Trenton on the Delaware; and also con- 

 nects the State of Pennsylvania and JVew Jersey. This 

 latter has been erected at the expence of a Company, 

 under the superintendance of Mr. Theodore Burr, who, 

 as well as Mr. Palmer is a self taught and ingenious 

 American Bridge Builder, and has evidenced much ta- 

 lent as well as industry in this structure. 



The success of the Schuylkill bridge, as far as it had 

 proceeded, was exemplary; and instigated the com- 

 mencement of this work, as well as encouragement in 

 its prosecution. All these erections are highly honor- 

 able to those who promoted, supported, and completed 

 them. But that over the Schuylkill, is the only suc- 

 cessful undertaking of the kind, attempted and carried 

 to perfection in and over a deep tide water. It has been 

 attended with the most difficulty and expence ; and has, 

 in consequence, more particulai'ly called forth the ta- 

 lents, exertions, and perseverance of those engaged in it. 



The Schuylkill, which washes the western front of 

 the city of Philadelphia, although it affords great advan- 

 tages, had long been attended with many serious incon- 

 veniencies. The frequent interruption of passage by 

 ice and floods ; and the inefficient and uncertain mode 

 of crossing heretofore practised, had, for a long course 

 of years, employed the thoughts and attention, of many 

 ingenious, and public spirited members of the commu- 

 nity. The character of this river is wild, and, in times 

 of floods, rapid and formidable ; and, to any structure 

 of slight materials, ruinous and irresistable. 



