A PRACTICAL STUDY OF ROAD MAIN- 

 TENANCE 



UV CHARLES H. PETTEE 



PRELIMINARY REMARKS 



Conclusions drawn from actual practical work, when the 

 surrounding conditions are carefully studied, are frequently 

 very instructive. With this thought in mind, and with a pur- 

 pose to accomplish as much as possible witli the available col- 

 lege resources, the highway agents of the town of Durham 

 were consulted, and, with their willing cooperation, the task 

 was entered upon of studying for a year the work done by 

 them, and of making report thereof, so far as lessons of public 

 interest would warrant. 



Infallibility in criticism is not claimed, and the writer is 

 glad at the outset to testify to the honesty, ability, and general 

 business acumen shown by all the members of the board of 

 highway agents, and to the gentlemanly treatment accorded 

 to himself and others with whom they came into business 

 relations. 



All personal criticisms* made, whether favorable or other- 

 wise, are such as might easily apply to a large number of high- 

 way agents throughout the state, and refer to matters that gen- 

 erally need attention and correction. 



ORGANIZATION FOR l8o,6-'o,7 



At the town election in March, 1S96, three highway agents 

 were chosen, whom we will speak of as A, B. and C. A was 

 reelected and thus brought to the service of the town an experi- 



*A11 personal criticisms made have been submitted to the individuals concerned, and 

 are published with their consent. 



