A Very Early Reference To New York City Subways: “Governor Cornell Has Signed What Is Known As The ‘Tunnel Bill.’ This May Enable Us…To Control At Least And Possibly To Commence Work On That Part Of The Route Under Broadway”

Book Description

ALS. 4pg. 4 ½” x 7”. June 27, 1880. New York. An autograph letter signed “James” to his father Samuel Ruggles concerning politics and construction in New York City: “You can not sufficiently congratulate yourself that you left town as early as you did. The heat has been & is almost phenomenal. The nights have been (with occasional relaxation) quite oppressive and we are rather wilted by the temperature. I think you have escaped much suffering. I see by the papers that Governor Cornell has signed what is known as the ‘Tunnel Bill.’ This may enable us (ie [Origen] Vandenburgh myself & others) who have filed articles of Association & maps &c to control at least and possibly to commence work on that part of the route under Broadway between Park Place (Post office) and 14th Street. The old charter which gives the whole route therein specified, I think is good & can be so shown. But of course, there must be work, tact, energy and probably some fight and counter maneuvering. I hope something may come of it, but I am not at all apt to count any chickens before they are distinctly hatched. I see that the Republican fire is opened upon [Democratic Presidential candidate Winfield Scott] Hancock for his alleged affiliation with (and apparent employment by) the White Leaguers of New Orleans. It does look as if he has somewhat favored the Southern politicians. I heartily wish that the ‘Credit Mobilier’ taint was removed from Garfield whatever may be the truth, it may prove a troublesome war cry against him. The boys are as well as Old Sol will permit.” The first underground railroad in New York City was built in 1869 but only went 312 feet underneath Broadway. Vandenburgh did plan a tunnel in the late 1870s, according to a New York Times article. The letter has light soiling but is in fine condition.

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