DAVID BATES DOUGLASS - (1790-1849 - Army Engineer, born Pompton,
N.J. Graduated Yale College (1813) and commissioned as 2nd Lt. in
engineers, appointed to West Point as commander of sappers and
miners, served with honor in War of 1812. Stationed at West Point as
professor at close of war and took prominent part in next fifteen
years in reorganizing the military academy on its present fine
basis. Resigned commission (1831) to accept post as chief engineer
of Morris Canal, New Jersey. Introduced inclined plane as substitute
for locks. Conducted surveys for Brooklyn & Jamaica railroad (1833).
Professor at University of City of New York (1833), president of
Kenyon College (1841), Major (1823).