Record #:

11905

Author(s):

Davis, Chester S.

Abstract:

Poor river conditions exacerbated by variable water levels and numerous obstructions presented navigation problems on the inland waterways in North Carolina. In an attempt to improve these conditions as well as other issues inhibiting statewide progress, Judge and soon to be Governor, Archibald Debow Murphy, initiated internal advancements within the state and included river maintenance into his plan. In 1819, an internal improvement board was created and money was spent on clearing and dredging the rivers, making them navigable for watercraft. In 1825, the first Yadkin Navigation Company was created and $84,000 was spent on developing the Yadkin for commerce. By 1850, a second Yadkin River Navigation Company began, continuing advancements in the waterway. River improvements lead to an increase in water traffic, specifically in the form of steamboats. The onset of the Civil War slowed progress and by the time the war had ended, the newly implemented railroad offered a superior form of transportation.

Source:

The State (NoCar F 251 S77), Vol. 31 Issue 9, Sept 1963, p13, 24, il

Subject(s):

Murphey, Archibald Debow, 1777-1832