French, James Strange, 1807-1886

An act of the General Assembly passed March 21, 1850, authorized the Board of Public Works to provide for the construction of an experimental section of railroad, not exceeding two miles in length, according to the plan and under the supervision of James S. French. The section was built on a site in Chesterfield, a short distance from the south end of the Richmond and Petersburg railroad bridge, at a cost not to exceed $10,000. Ninety days from the completion and use of the railroad, it was to be dismantled, the materials sold, and any income from the experiment was to be paid into the public treasury.

From the description of Experimental railway records, 1849-1852. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 122608619