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A guide to the Alphonzo B. Bowers papers, 1657-1926
HDC1618 (SAFR 22225)  
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Collection Contents

Box 1

Series 1.  Autobiographical and Bowers family history, undated, 1864-1925 (bulk 1907-1925)

Physical Description: .3 linear feet
Language(s): In English

Scope and Content

Series 1. Autobiographical and Bowers family history, (SAFR 22225, HDC1618) contains autobiographical information about Alphonzo B. Bowers and Bowers family genealogy research. Inclusive dates are undated and 1864-1925. The bulk dates are 1907-1925. This series is processed and described to the file unit level and is open for use.

Arrangement

.3 LF of materials are arranged in two (2) file units, autobiographical and family history materials, with two (2) folders in each, contained in a portion of a document box.
Box 1

File Unit 1.1.  Autobiographical history notes and documents, undated, 1864, 1908-1911, 1922-1925

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Two folders of materials in this file unit include church bulletins and Bowers' parents biographies. Some items were written by Bowers. Inclusive dates are 1864-1925.
Box 1

File Unit 1.2.  Genealogy and family information notes and documents, 1907-1924

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Two folders containing a collection of materials about the Bowers' ancestry which includes a letter, drafts, and an article in original order. Inclusive dates: 1907-1924.
Box 1-8, 18

Series 2.  Bound volumes of transcripts and publications, 1866-1918 (bulk 1888-1915)

Physical Description: 6.75 linear feet
Language(s): In English

Scope and Content

Series 2. Bound volumes and publications, (SAFR 22225, HDC1618) contains bound volumes of legal proceedings, engineering and lawsuit publications, and newspaper articles that are either about Bowers or of interest to him. Inclusive dates are 1888-1915 and the bulk dates are 1888-1915. The series is processed and described to the file unit level and is open for use.

Arrangement

Arranged in 28 file units by accession and then alphabetically. File units 1 through 13 are from the first accession. File units 14 through 28 are from a second accession received at a later date. This series is housed in 46 folders in 7 document boxes and 2 manuscript boxes.
Box 1

File Unit 2.01.  37th Annual Report of the Board of Harbor and Land Commissioners book, 1915

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

One copy: 37th Annual Report of the Board of Harbor and Land Commissioners, 1915 in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1915.
Box 1

File Unit 2.02.  An Appeal to Justice pamphlet, 1902-1903

Physical Description: 5 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Various versions of An Appeal for Justice. Appears to be a self published printing. Five folders. Inclusive dates: 1902-3.
Box 2

File Unit 2.03.  Bowers vs. California Dredging Co. Petition for Writ of Madamus transcript, 1900

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Legal documents in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1900.
Box 2-3

File Unit 2.04.  Bowers vs. Heldmaier transcript, 1897-1900

Physical Description: 3 folder. Comp. Exh does not have red rot and is housed in a flat box

Scope and Content Note

Two bound volumes, Vol. 1, 3-4 from U.S. Circuit Court of Northern Illinois and Complainant's Exhibits in three folders. Inclusive dates: 1897-1900.
Box 4

File Unit 2.05.  Cyclopedias: Electricity and Engineering books, 1909

Physical Description: 3 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Cyclopedia of Applied Electricity, Vol. IV. One book, 1909. Cyclopedia of Civil Engineering, Vol. I and II. 2 books. Three folders. Date: 1909.
Box 5

File Unit 2.06.  Modern Machine Shop Practice book, 1888

Physical Description: 1 folder. housed in one flat box

Scope and Content Note

Publication in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1888
Box 6

File Unit 2.07.  Massachusetts Institute of Technology papers, 1900-3, 1942, 1951

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Massachusetts Int. of Technology: Programs and Reports and Entrance Exams in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1900-3, 1942, 1951.
Box 6

File Unit 2.08.  Newspaper Articles clippings, 1907-1925

Physical Description: 3 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Newspaper clippings and archival copies. Subjects include articles about Bowers and some seem to be subjects of interest to him in three folders. Inclusive dates: 1907-1925
Box 6

File Unit 2.09.  The Reclamation of the Everglades of Florida pamphlet, 1902

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Prospectus of the Florida East Coast Drainage and Sugar Company, St. Augustine, Florida with lists of officers, directors, and financial agents and costs of stock being sold in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1902.
Box 6-8

File Unit 2.10.  San Francisco Bridge Company vs. A. B. Bowers transcript, 1900, 1910

Physical Description: 8 folder.

Scope and Content Note

SF Bridge Co. vs. A. B. Bowers, vol. 1, II, and IV, 1900 & Transcript of Record: San Francisco Bridge Company vs. A.B. Bowers.' United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Vol. V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, 1910 in eight folders. Dates: 1900, 1910.
Box 8

File Unit 2.11.  United States Seagoing Hydraulic Dredges, Appendix AAA book, 1914

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Publication in one folder. Date: 1914
Box 8

File Unit 2.12.  Von Schmidt vs. A. B. Bowers transcript, 1894-5

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Transcript of Record: Allexey W. Von Schmidt vs. A. B. Bowers: United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Vol. I, III, IV, V, VI in two folders. Inclusive dates: 1894-5.
Box 8

File Unit 2.13.  Works Connected with Ocean and Inland Navigation book, 1914

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Six soft cover volumes held together in a hard cover format: Permanent International Association of Navigation Congresses, Works connected with Ocean and Inland Navigation, Notes on the works in progress or completed in 1913, Executive Committee-Office of the Secretary General Brussels. Countries included: Brussels, Hungary, Germany, Switzerland, Turkey, France, Algeria, Corsica, Tunisia, Monaco, Brazil, Canada, Belgium, and Holland in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1914.
Box 18

File Unit 2.14.  Advisory Board of Consulting Engineers report, 1908

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Report to the Governor (of New York) of the Advisory Board of Consulting Engineers upon its work relating to the Barge Canal from January 1, 1907-January 1, 1908, Transmitted to Legislature April 16, 1908, Albany J. B. Lyon Company, State Printers 1908 in one folder.
Box 18

File Unit 2.15.  Barge Canal bulletin, 1908

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Barge Canal Bulletin, Series XI, No. 11; State of New York Department of the State Engineer and Surveyor; November 1918 in one folder.
Box 18

File Unit 2.16.  Decisions...Dredging Machine Patents Issued to Alphonzo B. Bowers publication, 1866-1902

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Decisions of the Federal Courts in the matter of the Dredging Machine Patents issued to Alphonzo B. Bowers; printed from the Federal Report. West Publishing Co. St. Paul, MINN., March 29 1902. Cases covered are Bowers vs. Von Schmidt, New York Dredging Co., San Francisco Bridge Co., Pacific Coast Dredging & Reclamation Co and Schmidt vs. Bowers. One folder. Inclusive dates: 1866-1902.
Box 18

File Unit 2.17.  Disbarment of John L. Boone transcript, ca. 1898

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

No. 12,455 in the Circuit Court of the United States, for the Northern District of California. (Hon. W. W. Morrow, C. J.) In the Matter of the Disbarment of John L. Boone, Attorney and Counselor at Law. Transcript of Record. Geo. Spaulding & Co., Prs., 414 Clay St. San Francisco. One folder. Date is after 1897 and is therefore assumed to be circa 1898.
Box 18

File Unit 2.18.  Extension of Breakwater and Sand-Catch Pier at Buffalo, N. Y. advertisement, 1896

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Advertisement, Specifications and Proposal for Extension of Breakwater and Sand Catch Pier at Buffalo, N. Y. One folder. Dated October 15, 1896.
Box 18

File Unit 2.19.  Five Roads to Financial Independence book and correspondence, 1918

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Generic letter and one book regarding the Five Roads to Financial Independence; The Ratner Securities Corporation 61 Broadway, New York City. One folder. Date is 1918.
Box 18

File Unit 2.20.  Listings of Congress members and attorneys pamphlets, 1901-2

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

1. Alphabetical List of Members and Delegates of the House of Representatives and the Standing and Select Committees of which they are members. Fifty-seventh congress, first session, commencing Monday December 2, 1901. 2. Alphabetical List of Senators and Committees. Fifty-seventh congress, first session. February 7, 1902. 3. & 4. Supplementary List of Attorneys registered in the United States Patent Office since January 2, 1902 (2 copies). Four pamphlets in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1901-2.
Box 18

File Unit 2.21.  Patent 946,366: Howieson, Calculating machine patent, 1901-2

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

J. T. Howieson, Calculating machine, patented Jan. 11, 1910, patent bulletin with text and drawings of specifications printed by US patent office. One folder. Inclusive dates are 1909-10.
Box 18

File Unit 2.22.  Patent Laws government policy, 1912

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Two copies of United States Patent Office Patent Laws edition of December 1, 1912; Department of the Interior Washington Government Printing Office 1912. One folder. Date is 1912.
Box 18

File Unit 2.23.  Report upon the Bowers Dredger pamphlet, ca. 1884

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Two versions of Report upon the Bowers Dredger by Pierce, undated but one has a notation dated 1884. Both copies have notations stating they were used as exhibits in lawsuits. One folder. Inclusive date is circa 1884.
Box 18

File Unit 2.24.  Rule of Practice for Circuit & District Courts... government policy, 1884, 1893

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Rules of the Supreme Court of the United States adopted January 7, 1884, and the Rules of Practice for the Circuit and District Courts of the United States in Equity and Admiralty Cases, and Orders in References to Appeals from Court of Claims; Washington: Government Printing Office. 1893. One folder. Inclusive dates are 1884, 1893.
Box 18

File Unit 2.25.  Rules of Practice in the Patent Office government policy, 1899, 1904, 1907

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Three version of Rules of Practice in the United States Patent Office. One folder. Inclusive dates are 1899-1907.
Box 18

File Unit 2.26.  San Francisco Harbor book, 1908

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

San Francisco Harbor, Its Commerce and Docks with a Complete Plan for Development being the Report of the Engineers of the Federated Harbor Improvement Associations. Luther Wagoner and Col. W. H. Heuer, U. S. A. 1908. One folder.
Box 18

File Unit 2.27.  The Spanish-American Iron Company book, 1908

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

A copy of First Mortgage for the Spanish-American Iron Company to Girard Trust Company, Trustee of $5,000,000, first mortgage twenty-year sinking fund gold coupon bonds; July 1. 1907. One folder.
Box 18

File Unit 2.28.  Toch and Toch vs. Zibell Damp Resisting Paint company brief, ca. 1915

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

No. 25 United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the second court: Henry M. Toch and Maximilian Toch, Plaintiffs-Appellants, vs. Zibell Damp Resisting Paint Company, Defendant-Appelle. Brief of Defendant-Appelle on Rehearing. C.G. Burgoyne, 72 to 78 Spring Street, New York. One folder. Date is prior to 1915.
Box 9, 19

Series 3.  Correspondence, undated, 1885-1925 (bulk 1900-1922)

Physical Description: 1 linear feet
Language(s): In English

Scope and Content

Series 3. Correspondence, (SAFR 22225, HDC1618), contains communication in the form of letters, greetings cards and telegrams that are personal and business related. Inclusive dates are 1885-1925. The bulk dates are 1904-1921. The series is processed and described to the file unit level and is open for use.

Arrangement

Arranged in eight file units by accession and then alphabetically. File units 1 through 4 are from the first accession. File units 5 through 8 are from a second accession received at a later date. Documents in each folder are in original order. See file unit level descriptions for more folder level detail. This series is housed in 16 folders in 1.5 document boxes.
Box 9

File Unit 3.1.  Bowers' Old Correspondence, 1900-1908

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit retains the original order of a file created by Bowers that was marked Bowers Old Corresp No Value". The file unit is roughly in descending chronological order in two folders. Inclusive dates: 1900-1908."
Box 9

File Unit 3.2.  Correspondence, 1885-1925

Physical Description: 5 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Correspondence found loose within the collection and assembled into ascending chronological order in five folders. Inclusive dates: 1885-1925.
Box 9

File Unit 3.3.  Correspondence: undated, undated

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Correspondence found without dates in one folder. Inclusive dates: undated.
Box 9

File Unit 3.4.  Telegrams, 1905-1916

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Telegrams originally filed together and original order is retained. A private cable code is included that deciphers code words assumed to have been used in the telegrams. One folder. Inclusive dates: 1905-1916.
Box 19

File Unit 3.5.  Letter copying books, 1907-1911

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Two Letter Copying Books with directions in one of them for copying, both have original roller and contain original letters on copying paper. Two folders. Inclusive dates: 1907-1911.
Box 19

File Unit 3.6.  1900 to 1905 correspondence, 1900-1904

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Correspondence removed from folder marked: "1900-1905, Nearly all letters prior to April 1906 were destroyed in San Francisco 1900-1-2-3-4". This folder has been re-housed in one folder and includes a copy of the original folder label.
Box 19

File Unit 3.7.  1904 to 1911 correspondence, 1905-1911

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Correspondence removed from folder marked: "1904-1911 including 1905-6-7-8-9-10." Nearly all papers and letters destroyed by fire up to Apr. 18 1906. This folder has been housed in two folders and a copy of the original folder label is included.
Box 19

File Unit 3.8.  Loose correspondence, undated, 1885, 1901-1922

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Loose correspondence from the second accession compiled and grouped by year in ascending chronological order. Two folders. Inclusive dates: undated, 1885, 1901-1922.
Box 10, 19

Series 4.  Drafts, undated, 1863-1902 (bulk 1863-1902)

Physical Description: 1.75 linear feet
Language(s): In English

Scope and Content

Series 4. Drafts, (SAFR 22225, HDC1618), contains drafts that appear to mostly pertain to legal documents including affidavits and contracts, articles, and dredge history. The inclusive dates are undated and 1863-1902. The bulk dates are 1863-1902. The series is processed and described to the file unit level and is open for use.
Many of the file units were originally rolled in a 'pigeon hole' style and the paper is thin with glue, tears, and rust. Use with caution.

Arrangement

Arranged in 10 file units by accession and then alphabetically. File units 1 through 8 are from the first accession. File units 9 through 10 are from a second accession received at a later date. Each file unit retains original order. This series is housed within 18 folders in 2.5 document boxes.
Box 10

File Unit 4.01.  Drafts, undated, 1863-1902

Physical Description: 6 folder.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit of 6 folders retain Bowers' original order and are drafts concerning patents, dredging and filling, and court cases. Inclusive dates: 1863-1902 & undated.
Box 10

File Unit 4.02.  Drafts (from rolls) in original order, undated

Physical Description: 2 folder. Having been rolled for many years, viewing these documents is a difficult task, use caution and map weights.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit of two folders retain Bowers' original order and are drafts concerning court cases. Inclusive dates: undated.
Box 10

File Unit 4.03.  Drafts: Contracts, undated

Physical Description: 1 folder. Having been rolled for many years, viewing these documents is a difficult task, use caution and map weights.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit of one folder retains Bowers' original order and contains drafts concerning contracts relating to dredging and filling. Inclusive dates: undated.
Box 10

File Unit 4.04.  Drafts: Dredge Details, undated

Physical Description: 1 folder. Having been rolled for many years, viewing these documents is a difficult task, use caution and map weights.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit of one folder retains Bowers' original order and contains drafts concerning contracts relating to the hydraulic dredge machine. Inclusive dates: undated.
Box 10

File Unit 4.05.  Drafts: Historical Old X, undated

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit of one folder retains Bowers' original order and are drafts concerning history of dredging in America. Inclusive dates: undated.
Box 10

File Unit 4.06.  Drafts: History of the Dredge, 1882

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit of one folder retains Bowers' original order and contains drafts concerning history of the dredge machine. Inclusive dates: 1882.
Box 10

File Unit 4.07.  Drafts: Affidavits, ca. 1884

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit of one folder retains Bowers' original order and contains drafts concerning affidavits for lawsuits. Inclusive dates: circa 1884
Box 10

File Unit 4.08.  Drafts: Proceedings, undated

Physical Description: 1 folder. Having been rolled for many years, viewing these documents is a difficult task, use caution and map weights.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit of one folder retains Bowers' original order and contains drafts concerning proceedings for lawsuits. Inclusive dates: undated.
Box 19

File Unit 4.09.  Drafts, undated

Physical Description: 3 folder.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit of three folders retain Bowers' original order and are drafts concerning patents, dredging and filling, and court cases. Undated.
Box 19

File Unit 4.10.  Drafts for S.F. Bridge Co. & Florida East Coast Railway Co. lawsuits notepad, ca. 1910

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

One notepad with drafts of what appear to be affidavits for lawsuits written by Bowers and for his suits against San Francisco Bridge Company and Florida East Coast Railway Company, circa 1910. One folder.
Box 11, 16-17

Series 5.  Dredge copies, prints, negatives, and drawings, undated, 1657-1923 (bulk 1880-1915)

Physical Description: 3.5 linear feet
Language(s): In English

Scope and Content

Series 5. Dredge images, (SAFR 22225, HDC1618), contains various formats including copies, prints, negatives, and original drawings of dredges and parts. It appears the majority of the copies were used in exhibits during unidentified lawsuits. The purpose for the prints and associated negatives is unclear, but may have been for promotion and/or design development. Blueprints and maps seem to related to construction or dredging projects and dredge development. Inclusive dates include 1657-1915. The bulk dates are 1880-1915. The series is processed and described to the file unit level and is open for use.

Arrangement

Arranged in seven file units in alphabetical order by title. The second accession accretion to the collection restarts the alphabetical order of the file units at File Unit 6. This series is housed in three map folders, 28 folders in one document box and two manuscript boxes, two photo boxes, and seven rolls of over sized materials house the series.
Box 11

File Unit 5.1.  Dredge blueprints and plans technical drawings, undated, 1900, 1915

Physical Description: 27 items. blueprints, linen, paper

Scope and Content Note

Folder 1 of 3 - Blueprints (20 ea.) Space occupied by three 300 H.P. Bituminous Producer Plants. General arrangement of electrically driven hydraulic gold dredge, power generated by gas engines and Loomis Pettibone gas producers. Hydraulic #2. Foundation plan for 16 & 27 x 16. Westinghouse automatic compound engine. Side view detail for Wrt. Steel cutter hub & spokes. New York Dredging Co. Appreil de dragage. (1897). [On back of plan]: Vergniais. Appreil de dragage. (1897).[copy 2/2]. Cutter shaft and couplings for ladder frame for [no title here]. Gears dredge 'Anita.' (1903). [No title, back of plan reads:] Bowers vs. Steers. Cutter head and outboard bearing for [no title here], 1900. The Vivian hydraulic dredge used on section 6 & 7, Chicago Drainage Canal. [Handwritten: Bowers vs. NY Dredging Co., Exhibit Drawing]. Cutter basket for dredger for R.I. & L. Works. [Stamped: San Francisco Bridge Co.].
Folder 2 of 3 - Blueprints continued Potomac River & Anacostia River at Washington, D.C., 1(1915). [On back:] Exhibit, Washington DC, Dredging at Washington DC. List of Valves. [Blueprint of suction pipe]. 600 BHP turbine and reduction gear, 1915. Bowers Alameda dredge. Diagram of arrangement of Westinghouse Leblanc air ejector for marine condenser, 1915. Proposed arrangement of pump shaft hydraulic No. 2 middle section and gears removed, 1915.
Folder 3 of 3 - Technical drawings requiring buffered storage (7 ea.) Bowers' pump dredger built by the Novelty Iron Works, 1878 (linen). Atlantic, Gulf, & Pacific Ladder etc. Double Universal Joint for 24 inch pipe. Spud hoisting Gear, 1900. Pencil sketch, undated or easily-discernible detail. Map of Naples and Waterways. No title, detail of 'spud' section of dredge.
Inclusive dates: undated, 1900, 1915.
Box 11

File Unit 5.2.  Glass plate negatives, undated, 1872-1888

Physical Description: 32 items. 29 whole, 3 broken (one of the whole ones' emulsion is curling and is marked as such)

Scope and Content Note

32 items: Subjects include dredge plans, dredges at work, portraits of Bowers, image used in Bowers vs. Heedmaier, letter of Grand Pacific Railroad 1872, cartoon: Bowers as we see 'Im, Bowers pump dredger built by Novelty Iron Works [copy of linen map], 1878. Inclusive dates: undated, 1872-1888.
Box 11, 16, 17

File Unit 5.3.  Illustrations copies and drawings, undated, 1880-1923

Physical Description: 23 folders.

Scope and Content Note

Box #11 Folder 1 of 8: includes some drawings for exhibits and others have unidentified purpose and are various formats of early copying methods, undated, 1880, 1868, 1898, and 1902, 1911, 1912. Folder 2 of 8: One bound album of drawings with index relating to an unidentified court case presumably after 1899. Folders 3-8: of 8 Patent illustrations of dredges, undated and 1885-1904.
Box #16 printed illustrations and drawn sketches (six folders): Cartoon Illustration (printed copy and hand drawn portion): Bowers as we see 'im: Game to the Last. Crane 600 700, undated and 1910. Cutter 3 old [drawings]. Cutter 400 100. [org. order]. Cutters [drawings] 400 10 3 notes not Chapter. Dredge [Misc.] and in general 100 see 1400. Endless chain dredge 1400. Flint disch file 2000. Fore and aft cables 1200.
Box #17 printed illustrations and hand drawn sketches cont. (nine folders): Index for Shortening, undated and 1922. Ladder 300. [Misc.] old [drawings] Accumulation, [silt] pump, Byd feed, vert wheel, fresh slud, 2 feed swing drums , undated and 1896, 1904, 1910. Pump, undated and 1917, 1922, 1923. Swinging cuts 500 3. Trailing Suction file 400a, undated and 1896.
File unit includes 23 folders. Inclusive dates: undated, 1880-1923.
Box 11

File Unit 5.4.  Photography prints and negatives, ca. 1880s

Physical Description: 3 folder. nitrate negatives are assumed and have not been tested and are separated, see separation sheet (10 negatives).

Scope and Content Note

1. Photographic Prints: subjects include New York barge canal, black and white photos of unidentified dredges, dredges in Fort Edwards, Champlain, black and white photo of unknown man, blank photo postcards, Harris electric, Model Exhibit N, Atlas Dredge Model. 2. Dredge Photos and Films: black and white photos of dredges in various unidentified locations, group of children, man holding a white scarf, man kneeling on dredge, man standing on dredge, building and 3 men on horseback. 3. Cellulose Nitrate Films: negative image subjects include dredge, church, military building, and streetscape image. All in three folders. Bulk dates: circa 1880s.
Box 11

File Unit 5.5.  Rolled materials maps and blueprints, 1657-1915

Physical Description: 7 rolls.

Scope and Content Note

Oversized rolls 1-7 Roll 1: Blank Government Dredge Reports and Forms (6)
Roll 2: Ladder for Bowers Dredger Nos 2 and 3; .75 in and 1.5 in equals 1 ft preservation notes: ink has bled, dirty, on linen
Roll 3: Blueprints A Plan for Sundry Farms Esc. at Patucket and the town of Chelmsford 1821, G. Hules, Surveyor and Civil Engineer, Bofton (Lowell in pencil on reverse). Hopper Sand Barge 1906, G.W. and James Dickie Naval Architects (very faded). Hopper Sand Barge 1906, G.W. and James Dickie Naval Architects (in good condition).
Roll 4: Vandyke prints by Eyre and Spottiswoode of London, 1857 3 positive prints of Baylys Drawing 1673 April 3 No. 169, Appended to Signet Bill. 2 negative prints of the same drawing.
Roll 5: Original drawings Four pencil drawings, one marked Shortened Radius on Covering Cutters (very dirty).
Roll 6: Maps and one poster (all dirty) City of Lowell, Massachusetts, 1910. New Jersey, Little Egg Inlet to Hereford Inlet, 1915. Absecon Inlet, Atlantic City, 1904. Map of Nassau Harbor, 1904. Map of Nassau Harbor, 1904, enlargement (stains). Destruction of San Francisco by Earthquake and Fire, April 18, 1906 (poster).
Roll 7: Print of Steers Dredge.
Inclusive dates: 1673, 1857-1915.
Box 11

File Unit 5.6.  Lithograph drawings, 1887-1904

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Lithograph prints with drawings of patent designs for dredge parts, numbers, inventor and witnesses. Some are dated while others are undated. Also included are copies of a letter from the patent examiner, 1888. One folder. Inclusive dates are 1887-8 & 1904.
Box 16

File Unit 5.7.  Original exhibits drawings, 1864, 1867, 1900

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Original drawings labeled Bowers vs. Williams Complainant's Exhibits DD and EE '64 (1864) housed flat in Mylar. One folder. Inclusive dates are 1864-1900.
Box 12-14, 20-21

Series 6.  Legal proceedings: documents and notebooks, undated, 1858-1917 (bulk 1885-1917)

Physical Description: 3 linear feet
Language(s): In English

Scope and Content

Series 6. Legal proceedings, (SAFR 22225, HDC1618), contains originals and copies of affidavits, notices, and other official documentation regarding various court cases and patent infringement claims. Inclusive dates are 1858-1915. Bulk dates are 1885-1911. The series is processed and described to the file unit level and is open for use.

Arrangement

Arranged in 22 file units by accession and then alphabetically. File units 1 through 19 are from the first accession. File units 20 through 22 are from a second accession received at a later date. This series is housed in 52 folders in 4.5 document boxes.
Box 12, 20

File Unit 6.01.  Bowers vs. Atlantic Gulf and Pacific Company legal documents, undated, 1858, 1885-1917

Physical Description: 7 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 12: Legal documents, correspondence, illustration, blueprint, handwritten notes, invoice, and a telegram in four folders. Inclusive dates: undated, 1858, 1885-1910.
Box 20: Bill of complaint, agreement, respondent's brief, correspondence, annexed certificates, other court documents, and a list of Panama Canal dredges: 1899-1917.
Box 12

File Unit 6.02.  Bowers vs. Craig Shipbuilding Company legal documents, 1908

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Declaration of Trespass on the Case in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1908.
Box 12

File Unit 6.03.  Bowers vs. Cunningham legal documents, 1908

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Correspondence and a bill of complaint in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1908.
Box 12

File Unit 6.04.  Bowers vs. Duval legal documents, 1885

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Copy of the Official Gazette of the United States Patent Office in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1885.
Box 12

File Unit 6.05.  Bowers vs. Ellicott Machine Company legal documents, 1906-1911

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Legal documents, correspondence, and invoices in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1906-1911.
Box 12

File Unit 6.06.  Bowers vs. Empire Engineering Company legal documents, 1912

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Legal documents in one folder. Date: 1912.
Box 12

File Unit 6.07.  Bowers vs. Estates of Long Beach legal documents, undated

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Bill of complaint in one folder. Undated material.
Box 12

File Unit 6.08.  Bowers vs. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company legal documents, 1907

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Legal documents in one folder. Date: 1907.
Box 12

File Unit 6.09.  Bowers vs. Lake Superior Contracting and Dredging Company legal documents, 1906-8

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Legal documents and correspondence in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1906-8.
Box 12, 20

File Unit 6.10.  Bowers vs. New York Dredging Company legal documents, 1867, 1895-1900

Physical Description: 5 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 12: Legal documents (including disposition), correspondence, and Holmes patent document in three folders. Inclusive dates: 1895-1900.
Box 20: Summary of Cases and Removal of Mud, Sewage, etc. Two folders. Inclusive dates: 1867, 1898.
Box 12

File Unit 6.11.  Bowers vs. North American Dredging Company legal documents, 1909

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Legal documents in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1909.
Box 12, 20

File Unit 6.12.  Bowers vs. Roderick G. Ross legal documents, undated, 1909-1917

Physical Description: 3 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 12: Legal documents (bill of complaint and plaintiff's brief) in one folder. Inclusive dates: undated, 1909.
Box 20: Legal documents in two folders. Inclusive dates: 1909-1917.
Box 12-13, 20

File Unit 6.13.  Bowers vs. San Francisco Bridge Company legal documents, undated, 1890s-1916

Physical Description: 6 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 12: Notebooks, 1894; minute orders, notices, notes, drawings, copies of previous contracts, and an index to letters concerning the case in four folders. Inclusive dates: undated, 1894-1916.
Box 20: Index to Lawsuit and Reply Brief of John H. Miller in two folders. Inclusive dates: circa 1890s and 1898.
Box 13, 20

File Unit 6.14.  Bowers vs. Steers legal documents, 1891-1917

Physical Description: 4 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 14: Notebook and verdict review. Two folders. Inclusive dates: 1918.
Box 20: Copy of Bill of Exception and Notes of Oral Argument and other legal documents. Two folders. Inclusive dates: 1891-1917.
Box 13, 21

File Unit 6.15.  Bowers vs. Trumbo legal documents, 1902-1917

Physical Description: 8 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 13: Also known as the Cuba case: correspondence, notes, telegrams, and legal documents. These were originally bound in notebooks and the folders retain the order; Vol. 2, Vol. 3, Vol. 4, Woodman, Proceeding and Patent, a scrapbook of Cuban newspaper clippings. In 6 folders. Inclusive dates: 1902-1917.
Box 21: Also known as the Cuba case: correspondence and legal documents, some documents are in Spanish. These were originally bound in notebooks and the folders retain the order; Vol. 1 (1908). In the second folder are more legal documents relating to the case. Two folders. Inclusive dates: 1908-1912.
Box 14, 21

File Unit 6.16.  Bowers vs. Von Schmidt legal documents, ca. 1885 & 1888, 1894, & 1904

Physical Description: 4 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 14: One notebook regarding Walsh and the Von Schmidt case and drafts by Bowers in two folders. Inclusive dates: circa 1885.
Box 21: Brief of Appellee (1894), Complainant's Brief on Final Hearing of Cause (1888) and photographer's affidavit, two copies (1904). In two folders. Inclusive dates: 1894-1904.
Box 14

File Unit 6.17.  Bowers vs. Western Dredging and Marine Construction Company legal documents, 1908

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Legal documents in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1908.
Box 14

File Unit 6.18.  Bowers vs. Williams legal documents, 1879-1881

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Handwritten notes by Bowers in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1879-1881.
Box 14

File Unit 6.19.  Legal documents, 1883-1916

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Left in original order, unsure of original purpose. Documents contain the following: Ross, Hackett, list of Bowers patent numbers, Lake Superior Contracting and Dredging Company, San Francisco Bridge Company, New York Dredging Company, correspondence, Empire Engineering Company, and drafts. In one folder. Inclusive dates: 1883-1916
Box 20

File Unit 6.20.  Bowers vs. Florida East Coast Railway Company legal documents, 1914

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Original order in one folder. Correspondence and legal documents. Date: 1914.
Box 20

File Unit 6.21.  Bowers vs. Rabbit and Sons Company legal documents, 1907

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

An unsigned district of Ohio legal document. One folder. Date: 1914.
Box 21

File Unit 6.22.  French disposition legal documents, 1866, 1897

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

An incomplete document handwritten in French and stamped Conservatoire des Arts et Metiers. One folder. Dated 1866 and 1897.
Box 14-15, 21

Series 7.  Subject files, undated, 1830-1926 (bulk 1904-1921)

Physical Description: 2 linear feet
Language(s): In English

Scope and Content

Series 7. Subject files, (SAFR 22225, HDC1618), contains files arranged by subject and then chronological when possible. Inclusive dates are 1830-1926. Bulk dates are 1904-1921. The series is processed and described to the file unit level and is open for use.

Arrangement

Arranged in 43 file units by accession and then alphabetically. File units 1 through 32 is from the first accession. File units 33 through 43 are from a second accession received at a later date. Original order at the file unit level generally ascends chronologically. This series is housed in 65 folders in 2.5 document boxes.
Box 14

File Unit 7.01.  Affidavit of Bowers' inventions by City and County of San Francisco legal documents, 1895 April

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Legal document: affidavit that describes Bowers' model for patent # 318,859 with illustrations and text in one folder. One folder. Date: April 1895.

Removed or Separated Material

This document describes the model that is housed in SAFR museum collection.
Box 14, 21

File Unit 7.02.  Agreements, assignments, and licenses legal documents, 1900-1911

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 14: Agreements and licenses of contract work and other deal made by Bowers in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1902-1911.
Box 21: Agreements and assignments in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1900-1910.
Box 14

File Unit 7.03.  Aladdin Coal Mine legal documents, 1904-1907

Physical Description: 1 folder. one sheet with rust holes

Scope and Content Note

Business ledger page showing tons mined, price, and advances in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1904-1907.
Box 14

File Unit 7.04.  American Bar Association legal documents, undated, 1902-1925

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Documents created by the American Bar Association and Bowers relating to the validation of patent licenses and a patent injunction connected with the use of patented inventions by the United States Government. One folder. Inclusive dates: undated, 1902-1925.
Box 14

File Unit 7.05.  American Magnesite Company legal documents, 1904-1908

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Documents refer to Bowers purchasing stock in the company. One folder. Inclusive dates: 1904-1908.
Box 14

File Unit 7.06.  Ball's petition to annul Bowers' patents legal documents, 1898-1906, 1921

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

U.S. Patent Office document relating John A. Ball's petition to annul Bowers' patent. One folder. Inclusive dates: 1898-1906, 1921.
Box 14

File Unit 7.07.  Chico Gun Club correspondence, 1908

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Correspondence between Bowers and the Chico Gun Club regarding infringement issues and payment for use of Bowers' design in one folder. Date: 1908.
Box 14

File Unit 7.08.  Bowers California Dredging Company legal documents, 1908-1909

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Documents from U.S. Patent Office assigning legal usage of mentioned inventions for particular areas in along the west coast of the United States. One folder. Inclusive dates: 1908-1909.
Box 14

File Unit 7.09.  Bowers Hydraulic Dredging Company correspondence and legal documents, 1896-1913

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Certificates and correspondence with stockholders. One folder. Inclusive dates: 1896-1913.
Box 14

File Unit 7.10.  Bowers' ephemera, 1904-1926

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Bulletins, brochures, publications relating to Panama, religion, education, Shriners, and International Exposition of 1911 in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1904-1926.
Box 14

File Unit 7.11.  Bowers' notes, undated, 1922

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Three notebooks with design information, both textual and visual in one folder. Inclusive dates: undated, 1922.
Box 14

File Unit 7.12.  Contracts: Dredging, 1899-1910

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Documents pertaining to contracts for Bowers' company in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1899-1910.
Box 14

File Unit 7.13.  Debt settlement correspondence, 1905-1910

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Debt settlement documents and correspondence between Bowers and attorney Miller in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1905-1910.
Box 14

File Unit 7.14.  Dredge application, 1910-1911

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Application for a patent for dredge: serial number 527.886 in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1910-1911
Box 14

File Unit 7.15.  Dredge figures and drawings, 1881, 1883

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

A handwritten document with drawn and colored figures with full descriptions that appears to be Bowers' original submission for his first patent. It is witnessed twice in two different years by the same person in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1881, 1883
Box 14

File Unit 7.16.  Genesco, Illinois blueprints, undated, 1905

Physical Description: 9 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Blueprints relating to the Green River and one of the Specifications for the Construction of the Ditches and Channels of the Green River of Illinois. Nine folders. Undated.
Box 15

File Unit 7.17.  Grafton Press contract, 1908-1909

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Contract with a publication company documents in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1908-1909.
Box 15, 21

File Unit 7.18.  Letterhead and stamp examples, undated, 1921

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Letterhead and stamp examples for Bowers' dredging company in one folder. Inclusive dates: undated, 1921.
Box 15

File Unit 7.19.  Los Angeles Harbor Company pamphlet, undated

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Document explaining the company's plan to develop the coast for commerce. One folder. Undated.
Box 15

File Unit 7.20.  Lynn Harbor project article and notes, 1910, 1921

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Newspaper article and typed notes about the Lynn, Massachusetts project in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1910, 1921.
Box 15

File Unit 7.21.  Manuscript materials drafts, undated, ca. 1900

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Drafts of what Bowers titled Manuscript Materials. It is not clear what the resulting publication was. File is in original order and housed in one folder. Undated.
Box 15, 21

File Unit 7.22.  Mex[ico] Mine[s] reports, undated, 1905-1908

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 15: Document and envelope regarding the Compania Restauradora del Mineral de la Bonanza in the district of Zimapam, Hidalgo, Mexico in one folder. Inclusive date: 1908.
Box 21: Reports regarding El Zopilote in Mexico, Real de Taxco Pedregal Mine, and the Cinco Estrellas Mines also in Mexico. One folder: one document is dated 1905, another 1906, and the rest are undated.
Box 15, 21

File Unit 7.23.  Nassau correspondence and notes, 1903-4, 1912

Physical Description: 3 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 15: Documents regarding the improvement of the harbor in Nassau, Bahamas including a printed letter to the Governer of Bahamas, Bennett in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1904, 1912.
Box 21: A Study of Nassau Harbor new Providence, Bahama (2 copies), March 1904 and a letter and handwritten notes. Two folders. Inclusive dates: 1903-4, 1912.
Box 15

File Unit 7.24.  Notes of travel notebook, 1908-1909

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

One notebook in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1908-1909.
Box 15

File Unit 7.25.  Packard company papers, 1909-1921

Physical Description: 3 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Letters, petitions, patent bulletins, and other documents regarding the use and infringement of Packard patented gun parts in Canada in three folders. Inclusive dates: 1909-1921.
Box 15, 21

File Unit 7.26.  Patent documents, 1830-1912

Physical Description: 5 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 15: Various Patents and Rotary Engines 1830-1916, Patent Bulletins 1869-1884, Patent Notes 1877-1912, and Patent Office 1872-1908, all record various aspects of patent application, creation, infringement, and the United States Patent Office at the turn of the century in four folders. Four folders. Inclusive dates: 1830-1912.
Box 21: Letter from Bowers to the Commissioner of Patents, November 28, 1887. One folder.
Box 15

File Unit 7.27.  Physician's Who's Who Publishing company documents, 1904-1918

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

This file unit documents the fact that Bowers sold his portion of the company to Kolle in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1904-1912. Also see File Unit: Publishing: Genealogy and Who's Who for related correspondence and receipts.
Box 15

File Unit 7.28.  Public No. 241 public notice, July 25, 1912

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

One copy of a congressional act regarding construction, repair, and preservation of public works on rivers, harbors, etc... One folder. Date: 1912.
Box 15, 21

File Unit 7.29.  Receipts, undated, 1902-1916

Physical Description: 3 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Box 15: This file unit includes receipts for memberships, and utilities. It also includes canceled checks and register tapes in one folder in ascending chronological order. Inclusive dates: 1904-1913.
Box 21: Receipts grouped by year in ascending chronological order within two folders. Inclusive dates: undated and 1902-1916.
Box 15

File Unit 7.30.  Report on Mr. X [Lindon Bates], undated, ca. 1900

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

One typed account relating Bowers' license to operate in Illinois in one folder. Inclusive dates: undated, probably after 1900.
Box 15

File Unit 7.31.  San Fernando Sugar Plantation document, undated

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

One document that is possibly a proposal for development or sale in one folder. Undated.
Box 15

File Unit 7.32.  Securities Rapid Delivery company documents, 1907

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Documents relating to Bowers involvement and ownership in the company in one folder. Date: 1907
Box 21

File Unit 7.33.  1909 diary, 1909

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Bowers' personal calendar with entries explaining what actions took place on certain days. One bound calendar in one folder. Date: 1909.
Box 21

File Unit 7.34.  Bank books, 1922-1926

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Bowers' personal bank books from the Security Trust Company Lynn, Mass and one checkbook from Heard National Bank of Jacksonville, Florida. Three bound books in one folder. Inclusive dates: 1922-1926.
Box 21

File Unit 7.35.  Bowers' properties legal documents, 1903, 1907

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Documents related to ownership of properties in New York and California. One folder. Inclusive dates: 1903 & 1907.
Box 21

File Unit 7.36.  Bracklee company legal documents, 1909

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Documents showing the sale of the Bracklee Company. One folder. Date: 1909.
Box 21

File Unit 7.37.  Fliers, newspapers, and copies, undated, 1912-1922

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Fliers and brochures relating to the Lynn Masonic Temple Association, Newfoundland Company, Everglades in Florida, unemployment, N. Y. Suburban Development, Co., and a sample of clippings from the Authors Clipping Bureau. In one folder. Inclusive dates: undated, 1912-1922.
Box 21

File Unit 7.38.  Hillsboro Bay, Florida dredging contract, 1905

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Dredging contract for Hillsboro Bay, Florida. One folder. Date: 1905.
Box 21

File Unit 7.39.  Jacksonville Heights Improvement company blueprint, undated

Physical Description: 2 folder.

Scope and Content Note

One blueprint copy of the shore along the John's River of Jacksonville, Florida and one map on tracing type paper of the same area. Two folders. Undated.
Box 21

File Unit 7.40.  Lists of dredges, dates, and volumes, 1877-1910

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Hand written notes regarding specific dredges, dates, and volume of material moved. One folder. Inclusive dates: 1877-1910.
Box 21

File Unit 7.41.  Miller and White correspondence, 1902-1912

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Correspondence between Bowers and Miller and White attorneys and counselors at law. One folder. Inclusive dates: 1902-1912.
Box 21

File Unit 7.42.  Publishing: Genealogy and Who's Who documents, 1911-1918

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Correspondence and receipts in original order that relate to publishing books. Subjects include Bowers' family history, the Frank Allaben Genealogical Company, and the International Who's Who (Who's Who in the World). One folder in original order. Inclusive dates: 1911-1918.
Box 21

File Unit 7.43.  Watt correspondence, 1905-1909

Physical Description: 1 folder.

Scope and Content Note

Correspondence within one folder originally marked Watt. Watt appears to be Alex Watt, Superintendent of Griffiths, McDermott & Watt Dredging Co. Most of the correspondence is between Watt and Howard Trumbo, Bowers, and Miller. One folder. Inclusive dates: 1905-1909.