Bruce, Phineas, 1762-1809 A short description of the lands between the rivers Penobscott and Schoodie in the District of Maine

Appears to be a copy of the description of lands in Maine sent to Henry Jackson and Royal Flint. There is also a secretarial signature of Bruce on page four. Claims it is less mountainous than most of Massachusetts. Describes fine fresh meadows and a number of small lakes, rivers, ponds, and swamps. As you get further from coast the rivers and swamps get larger in number and size. This disqualifies the land for settlement, especially since the land is barren and only producing pitch pine hemlock and shrubs. Reports that a one million acre purchase will encompass all that is valuable. Describes trees and soil and says there are 12-14 rivers, none of which are navigable for more than 6-8 miles. Mentions vast amount of fish. Says the Penobscot is navigable for 50 miles from its mouth. Notes there are few settlers in the land mentioned in the committee proposals. Reports there is a small Indian town 30-40 miles up the Schoodie and another 60-70 miles up the Penobscot, "together with 8 or 10 families of whites." Describes the climate saying spring is 15-20 days later than at Boston. Reports the Kennebec River is large but dangerous to navigate. Says the backland around the Kennebec is better than the backland around the Penobscot or Schoodie. Recommends buying 2 tracts of one million acres each, one around the Penobscot and Schoodie with the other around the Kennebec.