Geology and Top ra hy of Western New York. 105 
tion than at present, and shandneeade Prive with this ancient beach, 
and that, from some ause, it has to its pres- 
ent level and dimensions.. 
I have long suspected some fallacy i in this theory, and have 
anxiously awaited the result of accurate levelings. It may be 
deemed equally probable, and more consonant with the views, 
here suggested, to suppose, that, after the principal tides were shut 
out from this-inland sea, and: the water had become nearly or 
quite fresh, but while it was on a level, or nearly so, with the 
Atlantic, the uplifting process became stationary, for an indefinite 
period ; during which season of quiescence, this beach was thrown 
up. Atsome subsequent time, the disturbing force again became 
active, raising the basin of Lake Ontario, above the further influ- 
ence of the ocean; and fixing the present levels and boundaries 
of this part of the continent. Should the statement of Mr. James 
Hall prove well founded, and actual admeasurement confirm the 
estimates of his assistant, Dr. George W. Boyd, this view of the 
subject will be clearly established ; although these gentlemen do 
not seem to have drawn such an inference. Mr. Hall states the 
elevation of the ridge in Niagara county, at about 160 feet; and 
admits variations in its level, of a few feet.* Dr. Boyd estimates 
its elevation in Wayne county at more than 200 feet.+ If this 
diversity of level actually exists—as I have long suspected would 
prove to be the case—it fixes the elevation at a period subsequent 
- to the formation of this beach. Its increased elevation, in ap- 
proaching the primitive district, is what should be inferred, on 
the theory, that those districts were the original centers of ele- 
vation. And the variation of forty feet in about one hundred 
miles, is quite as much as ought to be expected from an elevation 
, of but. four hundred feet, which is the height of this mage, 0 
ancient ities in Niagara coUnEYs above tide water. 
* Second New York Geological Report, p. 310. - 4 Ibid. p. 312. 
Vor. XXXV.—No. 1. ul 
