Colonial Surveying

As the American colonies grew and settlers claimed more land, the need for land surveyors increased. Many famous men in American history, including several presidents, at one point in their life were employed as surveyors. This presentation explains the type of work a land surveyor in colonial America would perform. Also covered is a discussion on the lifestyle of a colonial surveyor and the hardships they could encounter. Reproductions of various types of 18th century surveying equipment and tools are presented and their usage explained. An explanation of the terms and units of measurements used in colonial surveying are included. A demonstration of running a chain, with assistance from the audience, concludes the presentation.