This collection contains the papers of Nathan Appleton, covering the years 1869-1904.
The focus of the collection is on Appleton’s involvement in the construction of a
canal through Central America for trade purposes and centers on the relationship
that Appleton had with Ferdinand de Lesseps. Appleton compiled a collection of de
Lesseps' souvenirs that includes photographs, letters, and newspaper clippings from
their time spent working together. Much of the material refers to the multiple
routes considered, such as the Nicaraguan route or through the Isthmus of
Tehuantepec in Mexico. Included is correspondence with individuals connected to the
efforts of building the Panama Canal such as Marcus Hanna, James K. Jones, Henry
Cabot Lodge, Lord Kelvin, and Ferdinand de Lesseps. There are also publications
regarding topics such as the Panama Canal, Bohio Dam, and Isthmian Canal.
