Slide 25
Map of Gambier, drawn by Henry Caswall
1828
I will now describe this place. The site has been removed more than 30 miles from the spot mentioned in the Bishop’s letter to Lord Kenyon. The College now stands upon a beautiful hill a few hundred yards north of Owl Creek and 6 miles east of Mount Vernon. From the top of the college is an extensive view of many miles, but nothing is seen except the almost interminable forests of the country, which extend for hundreds of miles every side. The trees are most majestic. The wild animals are numerous; there are three kinds of bears, 2 of which are very fierce; there are likewise many wolves. The rattlesnakes are innumerable. The Bishop tells me that the workmen have killed great quantities, and there are six hanging up in this room, which were killed a few days ago. Nobody is afraid of them. There are also wild boars, deer, and wild turkies; pigeons innumerable. No town of any kind is built here as yet, and the college will not be habitable before next summer. There are only a few wooden buildings erected for the use of the Bishop, professors, and students. There are both a school and a college with about 50 students.