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| Field name | Value |
|---|---|
| Collection Reference Number | GLC02112 |
| From Archive Folder | Documents Relating to 1844 |
| Title | Samuel Finley Morse to John C. Spencer regarding a lead pipe |
| Date | 19 January 1844 |
| Author | Morse, Samuel Finley Breese (1791-1872) |
| Recipient | Spencer, John C. |
| Document Type | Correspondence |
| Content Description | States that the lead pipe delivered by F.O. J. Smith, the contractors with Mr. Tatham and his brothers, is defective. Describes the main problem, "I find it defective in many points but particularly in the destructive effect that has been produced upon the insulation of the wires by the hot process of manufacture." Informs that the wires will have to be removed from the pipes, re-varnished, and put back in the pipe. Estimates the cost of the repairs to be $500. States that the Tathams will credit $50 of the cost. Puts much of the blame on his Assistant Professor Fiskee, whom he has since dismissed from service. |
| Subjects | Telegraph Science and Technology Industry Finance |
| People | Morse, Samuel Finley Breese (1791-1872) Spencer, John C. (John Canfield) (1788-1855) |
| Place written | Washington, D.C. |
| Theme | Industry; Merchants & Commerce; Banking & Economics; Science, Technology, Invention |
| Sub-collection | The Gilder Lehrman Collection, 1493-1859 |
| Additional Information | Morse is credited with inventing the telegraph and Morse code. In 1844, he sent the first telegraphic message, from Baltimore to Washington, D.C., "What hath God wrought!" He was also an accomplished artist and politician. Spencer was the Secretary of the Treasury. |
| Copyright | The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History |
| Module | Settlement, Commerce, Revolution and Reform: 1493-1859 |