PROFESSOR FUERTES DIES.
Cornell Alumni News V (15) Pages 1–2. January 21, 1903, with photo
Extracts from extensive obituary:
Well-Known Director of College of Civil Engineering Passes Away
--Shock To the University.
The entire University was saddened Friday by the news that Professor E. A. Fuertes, the former dean and director of the college of civil engineering had died at his home in East avenue. He had been seriously ill only three days and the news of his death came as a shock to students and professors alike who were sobered by the sense of the loss of a friend and highly respected teacher.
Only last Monday Professor Fuertes went to Syracuse on a business trip. On his return he appeared in as good health as usual but he contracted a severe cold which rapidly developed into what was called la grippe. Professor Fuertes for years had been the victim of Bright's disease and his already enfeebled constitution was not able to withstand the attacks of the new disease. After lingering near death for an entire day he passed away peacefully at 5:30 o'clock Friday morning.
...
Esteven Antonio Fuertes was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, May 10, 1838, the son of Estevan and Demetria (Charbonnier). He was given an academic education and received the degrees of Ph. D. and C. E. before entering upon his work as an engineer. He at once was appointed to responsible government positions and was made director of the public works of the western district of the island in the year 1862. In 1863 he came to the United States and was first assistant engineer and later engineer for the Croton aqueduct board in New York city.
In 1870-1, he was the engineer in chief of the United States expedition to Nicaraugua and Tehuantepec to enquire into the feasibility of an isthmian ship canal. Later as a consulting engineer in New York be became identified with numerous extensive engineering enterprises in this country and South America.
In 1873 he was called to Cornell to become the dean of the department of engineering and at once pushed his college to the front.
...
His resignation as director and dean of the College of Civil Engineering was announced November 7. Two years ago, under the strain of administrative duties, an organic trouble developed, which for the entire spring term kept him away from the college for the most part in a New York hospital.
Shortly after his return it was evident his strength was not equal to the administrative demands of the college, and its many-sided interests, and he resigned."