File No. 861.77/64a
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Russia (Francis)
1372. Mr. John F. Stevens has been requested to head a commission of expert railroad officials which will leave for Russia within the next week via Vladivostok. Mr. Stevens is perhaps best known by his connection with the early planning and construction in connection with the Panama Canal. The work which he laid out and the plans which he formulated were finally carried through to completion by General Goethals. Mr. Stevens has also had extensive experience in the location of railways, notably the Great Northern, which line he located across the Rocky and Cascade ranges. He has superintended the construction also of many other notable pieces of engineering work.
The personnel of his party will be made up of men who have had well-recognized experience. This committee is being sent in the hope that it may be able to ascertain ways in which this country can be helpful to Russia during this present great emergency. It is believed that an examination of Russian railroads will disclose methods whereby we will be able to render immediate and valuable assistance. It is not improbable, that with slight changes, equipment now being built for American railroads may be so changed as to fit the Russian gauge and requirements, and it is with that thought now in mind that the commission is being sent.