34 A STATISTICAL ACCOUNT OF THE 



would it be SO well calculated for heavy transportation.-— 

 More important than all — it would be unfit for covering 

 to such advantage. Notwithstanding this great im- 

 provement, was highly approved by Mr. Palmer it was 

 not in his contemplation, as to mode^ until the outline of 

 the present cover was shewn to him ; although he said he 

 had repeatedly, but fruitlessly, urged the measure of co- 

 vering their bridges, in Nexv England. It is hoped this 

 example will be followed, in all pontifical wooden struc- 

 tures of magnitude, hereafter. Bridges may, for most 

 situations, be less expensive in the frame; the middle 

 section may be omitted above the flooring; nor need 

 they be more than 30 feet wide. This width was deem- 

 ed sufficient by Mr. IFeston, for bridges in general; 

 though he considered that over the Schuylkill to require 

 more than common space, for its constant and burthen- 

 some transportation. The Easton bridge, built under 

 Mr. Palmer'' s directions, is 28 feet wide ; and the frame 

 of the middle section does not rise above the platform. 

 Its situation does not demand a plan, or call for dimen- 

 sions, on a greater scale ; and it is erected according to 

 the improved work of the frame of the Schuylkill bridge. 

 Although the cover of the Schuylkillhridge compelled 

 ornament, and some elegance of design, lest it should 

 disgrace the environs of a great City; these would not 

 be necessary in such a degree, in other situations. 

 Neatness of elevation and taste in design, may be shewn 

 at a small expence; and the worki^anship and materials 

 need be no more costly, than those for roofing and wea- 

 ther boarding common frame buildings. The Schuyl- 

 kill bridge roof required one hundred and ten thousand 

 shingles, of * feet long and 6 inches wide ; and other 



