Thomas Nuttall diary, 1810

Mss.B.N96

Date: 1810 | Size: 1 volume(s), 1 volume, 121 p., photostat.
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Abstract

This diary is a journal of a trip from Philadelphia by stage to Pittsburgh, then afoot through Franklin, LeBoeuf, and Erie to the Huron River; thence by boat to Detroit, where he remained 26-29 July, when he set out by canoe for Michilimackinac. Included are descriptions of Detroit, plants, animals, springs, Indian mounds, and notes on goitre.

Background note

Naturalist Thomas Nuttall was elected to the American Philosophical Society in 1817.

Collection Information

Physical description

1 volume, 121 p., photostat.

Provenance

Purchased from Dixon-Nuttall family and accessioned, 1949.

Location of originals:

Originals in possession of the Dixon-Nuttall family.

Early American History Note

Thomas Nuttall's travel narrative tracks his journey from Philadelphia to Detroit during the spring and summer of 1810. Nuttall makes a range of observations, including discussions of the weather, plant life, rivers, and the various people he meets, including Native peoples. The last portion of the narrative, which takes place around Detroit, discusses Indians a fair amount – their history in the area, the various groups he met (Chippewa in particular), and their customs.

Indexing Terms


Genre(s)

  • Diaries.
  • Notes.
  • Travel Narratives and Journals

Geographic Name(s)

  • Detroit (Mich.)
  • Michigan -- Description and travel.
  • Pennsylvania -- Description and travel.

Subject(s)

  • Botany -- North America.
  • Exploration.
  • Goiter.
  • Indians of North America
  • Native America
  • Natural history
  • Travel
  • Voyages and travels.
  • Zoology -- North America.