Skip to main content

This version of the website was created in 2025. See the Site Information Page for contact information, data downloads, and other details.

Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Thomas C. Durant, March 26, 1866

In this letter from March 26, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to Thomas C. Durant, Vice President of the Union Pacific Railroad, describing the estimates he has been given for various contract work related to the construction of the railroad.


Union Pacific Rail Road Co.
Office of the Genl. Supt.

Omaha
March 26th 1866


Ths.C. Durant V.P.
13 William St. NY

Dear Sir

I send you herewith an estimate made by Ths Davis a mill owner and lumber dealer of this place of the logs and ties on the O Hanlon work.

My instructions to Mr. Davis was to estimate the logs and ties at their actual value as they ley [sic] in the timber without regard to any claim there is on the logs for work or otherwise.

I have not closed a contract for the brick to build car shop and engine house and car. The best offer I can get is $14. per 1000. McManus proposes to do the brick work for $21. per 1000. Stone work in formelations [sic] $8.75 per c yard. Hornly proposes to do all the wood and iron work except the wrought for $22,600.

Yours very respectfully
Saml. B. Reed

About this Document

  • Source: Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Thomas C. Durant
  • Extent: 1 page
  • Citation: Special Collections, University of Iowa Libraries, Iowa City, Iowa, Papers of Levi O. Leonard, Box 26, Folder: "Samuel Benedict Reed Correspondence: 1866"
  • Date: March 26, 1866