Judge Drummond gives his opinion in Peoria Bridge Case, tried in federal court December 19, 1851 and December 20, 1851. He decides that legislature has no right to authorize obstruction of navigable stream. Question whether Peoria bridge is, in fact, obstruction is to "be settled by testimony on trial." Register, 27 January 1852.

Case is later compromised. McLean's Reports, VI, 209.