The land on which Washinton was to be built was surveyed in 1791 by Andrew Ellicott and Benjamin Banneker. The latter, a self-taught astronomer of African descent, used astronomical readings to fix the positions of the 40 boundary stones marking the perimeter of the 10 square mile site.
benjamin banneker
Benjamin Banneker ~alb
George Washington appointed Andrew Ellicott to help survey the land that would become Washington, D.C. Ellicott was a skilled surveyor and was tasked with mapping out the new capital's boundaries as part of the effort to establish a federal district. Washington's decision was part of his broader vision to create a new capital that would reflect the nation's ideals.
Benjamin Banneker
Washington, D.C. is the official capital of the United States of America. The provision for its founding was written into the original Constitution, and its location was chosen by George Washington. It was planned by Andrew Ellicott with the help of several assistants.
a survey
The astronomer who helped survey the land for Washington, D.C., was Andrew Ellicott. He was appointed by President George Washington to conduct the survey of the district in 1791. Ellicott worked alongside Pierre L'Enfant, the city's planner, and utilized his expertise in astronomy to establish the geographical layout of the new capital. His work was crucial in determining the boundaries and orientation of the city.
Major Andrew Ellicott, Benjamin Ellicoot, Joseph Ellicott, Isaac Briggs, Benjamin Banneker, Isaac Roberdeau, and George Fenwick were the surveyors who first surveyed D.C. .
Andrew Ellicott and Benjamin Banneker.
Andrew Ellicott was instrumental in surveying Washington, D.C., and is noted for his correspondence with Thomas Jefferson during the process. Ellicott was appointed by President George Washington to oversee the survey of the new capital, and his letters to Jefferson, who was then the Secretary of State, provided updates and insights on the progress and challenges of the project. Their correspondence reflects the collaborative efforts and vision behind the establishment of the nation's capital.
George Washington surveyed the Dismal Swamp area. The lake was Lake Drummond.
BENJAMIN BANNEKER was the black surveyor to helped survey the District of Columbia