One Hundred Links Equals One Chain | Part 2

The way in which surveying was done at that time was with a device which was comprised of a hundred links. These were steel, less than a foot in length, and they were bundled up so they could be easily transported. You put a stake in the ground, you looped it over one end and you pulled the chain and then you staked it at the end. And that was the equivalent of 66 feet. And for the most part our streets are exactly 66 feet wide, which is the equivalent of one chain.

So actually as you make your way along the walkway, you'll find markings in the pavers. These are related to the chain that's used by surveyors back then. And they're called "tellers" and what they are, are identifiers. So that a chain, one chain used by surveyors comprised of a hundred links, or a hundred pieces of steel linked together, a quick way to do a count - every 10 links there was a small brass little plate, and what you'll see underfoot as you make your way west are 3 pavers that are in the walkway. And they signify either a 50, a 40, a 30 a 20 or a 10. And they relate to that chain and its tellers.

As you're walking, about a third of the way there's a square now, which has become the preferred entrance to Gibson House from the south. Continue walking along the pathway and it meanders up and around and this leads you towards where the second major element of the piece is situated.

Want to hear more? Check out Part 3.

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