Christopher Colles

1739–1816 (age 77)

Engineer

Photograph of Christopher Colles

Biography

Christopher Colles dedicated his talents to engineering endeavors that supported the development of infrastructure in the sprawling early United States. His efforts helped to shape the networks of canals and bridges that would sustain commerce and communication for decades to come.

He rests in St. Paul’s Chapel churchyard, a fitting tribute to an engineer whose vision helped lay the groundwork for a growing nation.