|
Macon, June 14, 1862 |
| |
| Col Jas. H. Burton |
|
Atlanta Ga |
| |
| Dear Sir, |
| Since your departure, I have been making
some inquiries to satisfy myself as to the probability of obtaining a
full supply of good coal for the works which I propose to locate at this
point. There are three sources from which supplies may be drawn, after
the war. The mines of Georgia and Tennessee, Alabama & from Baltimore of
foreign points. |
| The coal of Alabama has been proven to be
superior to the coal of Ga or Tenn, a ton of the former being considered
equal to a ton and a half of latter, being also cleaner and better in
every respect, in fact fully equal to the best coal found on the
continent. The iron &c from that quarter is also of superior quality.
The R. Rd now graded from Griffin to Newman, will be rapidly completed
after the war, passing directly through the "Coal Fields," and by that
means placing Macon within 150 miles of coal, which at $1.50 per ton at
the mines, can be laid down here for not exceeding 3 1/2 or 4 dollars
per ton. The supply from the coast can be obtained here at least 2 1/2
to 3 dollars less than at points higher up. |
| Our Rail Roads have not made coal an
object in their transportation, before; but the commitment will now
force them to come up to the mark and transport coal from Atlanta here
for $1 per ton. The R. Rd. between this point and Atlanta is a regular
Yankee concern, a large part of the stock will be owned by government
anyhow. The stock for the Griffin Road has been subscribed for, and
contractors are ready to push it through rapidly. |
| As regards the climate, the average
temperature through out the year is very little higher here than in
Atlanta and much more agreeable, taking all things into consideration,
comfort of living ??? has considered. I consider Macon the most
desirable point to locate at. Having spent a summer in Georgia. I have
tested the matter for myself, have visited all the points spoken of,
frequently during the past year, and feel fully satisfied that I am
correct. The same changes of temperature are felt at both places,
simultaneously, and as the heat of the sum is the cause of the rise in
temperature the same effects are produced at both points. Since your
departure it has been too cool for comfort here. |
| These are statements of facts, without
prejudice, and a candid investigation will fully confirm them, balleys
are always warm in the south, but elevated points are sufficiently cool
even in Dog days. It is from the variations in temperature that we
suffer most, and workmen employed here, the year round, do as much work
as at any other point. Hoping to see you soon |
| I remain Yours truly |
| Thos. E. McNeill |
|