John G. Parke
Caln Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
Born in this vicinity on Sept. 22, 1827, the noted Army Engineer is remembered chiefly for having set the exact boundary between the Oregon Territory and Canada. His survey, begun in 1857, was halted by service in the Civil War and was not completed until 1869. He later became Supt. of West Point.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
Born near here in 1827, John G. Parke became one of the nation's most accomplished Army engineers. He is best remembered for surveying the exact boundary between the Oregon Territory and British Canada, a painstaking task begun in 1857, interrupted by his service as a Union general in the Civil War, and not finished until 1869. He later served as superintendent of West Point, capping a career that spanned exploration, war, and education.
Why it matters
His work fixed a lasting border of the United States and reflects the Army engineers who mapped, defended, and defined the growing nation.
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Related people
- · John G. Parke
Related events
- · Civil War
Themes & tags
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