PROF. BENJAMIN S. H. MAILLEFERT HELL GATE ROCK BLASTER
Benjamin S. H. Maillefert
Born Nov 11, 1813 in Barcelona, Spain, died Aug 8, 1884
Prof. Benjamin S. H. Maillefert was a member of the firm of B. Maillefert & Co., who obtained a reputation in
their experiments with surface blasting, which was applied by them to the Hell Gate work. He was engaged in this work
as far back as 1855. Their implements for surface blasting consisted simply of a boat and iron rod, to feel the bottom
with and to let down charges with an electric battery. The firm obtained a contract to clear away
Pot Rock and Sheldrake Reef, the contract ending on Jan. 1, 1870. The result of their labor was not
entirely satisfactory, as during the summer the rock was blown away only so as to give a depth from 12 to 20 feet, while
the contract called for 25 feet. The Government then took charge of the work under Gen. Newton. Prof. Maillefert
since then led a quit life, not engaging in any business.
