Manual of Instructions

Scott Tikalsky · Post by **Scott Tikalsky** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 8:30 am

Seeing as how the BLM is finally releasing a new version of the "Manual of Instructions" this year, I was wondering if anyone had information as to where I can get copies of the older manuals. I already have the 1973, 1947 and the 1851 "Instructions to the Surveyor General of Oregon". I am looking for the remaining manuals.

I know there is an 1851 Manual, which with the last mentioned book above, covers a major portion of the time period of surveying here in the north state. I am sure there are other versions also.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Ian Wilson · Post by **Ian Wilson** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 9:11 am

A History of the Rectangular Survey System" by C. Albert White, has a complete set of reprints of the Manuals, Circulars and Letters of Instruction.

It's a beaut of a reference, if you can find one.

I recall that there was a PDF circulating some while back.

Google!

.

pls7809 · Post by **pls7809** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 9:12 am

I believe the book "A History of the Rectangular Survey System" by C. Albert White, published by the BLM, has manuals and circulars from 1804-1910 in the appendix. There's also a book that I have called Corner Restoration Circulars 1883-1974 by Carben Surveying Reprints. I think you can get that from Paul Cuomo Press. I have a searchable PDF of the White book that is 790 pages. Might be too big to post on here. It might be available for download from the BLM Cadastral site.

http://www.blm.gov/wo/st/en/prog/more/c ... tools.html

I just checked and it's there under the 1973 downloadable Manual of Instructions.

Ian Wilson · Post by **Ian Wilson** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 9:14 am

Old news, Ryan! ;^)

pls7809 · Post by **pls7809** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 9:16 am

My post is better than yours. I have the link to download White's book. ;P

When I clicked reply, your post wasn't there, when I hit submit, it was there. Great minds think alike and at the same time apparently.

Propst · Post by **Propst** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 11:06 am

Roy Minnick published "A Collection of Original Instructions to Surveyors of the Public Lands 1815 - 1881"
I'm fairly certain Paul Coumo Press still carries it.

It is a very useful collection and well put together, as was typical of Roy Minnick's work. I recommend it.

Scott Tikalsky · Post by **Scott Tikalsky** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 1:41 pm

Thanks Guys;

I found White's book. It looks like it fills the bill. More and more I find I need to know what the instructions were 150 years ago. We still have areas up here where some of this still applies. Everyone have a good weekend.

Regards,

goodgps · Post by **goodgps** » Sat Jul 25, 2009 3:57 pm

Scott,
Arent you old enough to simply remember the info from school ?

Glad you're busy, stay safe and dont forget to oil that chain once in a while.

your friend

"Good"

Scott Tikalsky · Post by **Scott Tikalsky** » Mon Jul 27, 2009 7:10 am

Good;

That's the problem, I am old enough to remember... just can't seem to. Hope your busy also. Say hi to the Boss for me.