W. & L.E. Gurley, the manufacturers of surveying instruments employed a highly successful marketing ploy which led them to their unquestioned status as America’s premier manufacturer of such instruments. Beginning in the 1860’s they produced, annually, a “Manual” which included descriptions of the function and operation of all manner of surveying and mapping instruments. Conveniently located in the back of these “Manuals” was a catalog of Gurley instruments offered for sale. This edition of the Manual is thoroughly documented with period engravings, including an exceptional illustration of a miners plummet in use. For a look at the state of the surveyor’s art in the third quarter of the last century, we recommend the Gurley Manual.