DENNIS HART MAHAN - (1802-1871) - Army Engineer, born New
York City. Graduated at West Point (1824), taught
engineering while attending and after graduating, studied
engineering in Europe (1826-30), attached to the military
school of engineers and artillery at Metz, France the last
year. Assistant professor and then professor of engineer at
West Point (1830-71) being dean of the faculty (1838-71).
Appointed by Governor Floyd of Virginia to determind route
of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (1850) and elected
overseer of the Thayer School of Civil Engineering (1871).
A member of the Geographical Society of France, an original
incorporator of the National Academy of Sciences and a
member of many learned societies. Author of many
engineering books.