JOHM THOMAS LEE A NOVEL TRANSPORTATION DEVICE A recent request for information on the subject first brought to our attention the novel project of Norman Wiard for establishing a rapid-transit route between Prairie du Chien and St. Paul in 1859. A somewhat cursory examination of contemporary newspaper files revealed the notices of the project which follow. It seems probable that a more thorough search would disclose additional information concerning Wiard’s ingenious project. THE ICE BOAT[79] Prairie du Chien, Dec. 1, 1859. EDITOR COURIER. Dear Sir: As there have been many conjectures in regard to the Ice Boat published in the various newspapers of the Northwest, I thought that some definite and reliable information in regard to the invention would be of interest to the public. Norman Wiard Esq., the inventor of the Ice Boat, is now constructing in New York City, an ice boat with a capacity for carrying twenty passengers, and will be here with it about the twentieth of December. He has proved to the satisfaction of some of the most scientific men of New York that his invention is a success. It is intended by the parties having the route from here to Saint Paul to stock the line this winter, and to be prepared to do all business that may present itself. The immense advantages arising to the Northwest from this invention must be apparent to all. Yours truly, JOHN JAY CHASE ICE BOATS, CHARIOTS, CUTTER--LETTER FROM MR. WIARD[80] New York, Nov. 22, 1859. _169 Broadway, Room 35._ J. H. GREEN, _Editor of Leader_: Please say to all, or as much of what I have written as you please, in your own words, for I assure you I believe it all myself, and I believe that many of your readers will be glad to have the information. Yours truly, NORMAN WIARD. Accordingly, we say as requested, that Norman Wiard, inventor of the Ice Boat, will be in Prairie du Chien before long with a twenty-passenger steam ice boat, which he has now in process of construction at New York, and hopes by such means to keep open communication with St. Paul and Prairie du Chien, connecting, always up to time, with the Milwaukee & Mississippi Railroad.