Views of Louisiana; together with a journal of a voyage up the Missouri River, in 1811

Pittsburgh: Cramer, Spear and Eichbaum, 1814. Original linen-backed blue-paper boards, quite worn, original spine label; interior with some minor staining and foxing. Overall a wonderful copy. First edition. Brackenridge (1786–1871) was an American writer, lawyer, judge, and politician. He traveled extensively in both North and South America due to his various roles in the U.S. government, often serving as a diplomat. The first section of his travel account consists of a description of the newly acquired territory of Louisiana. Brackenridge details the history of the territory, including the Native Americans indigenous to the area, as well as the natural history and resources there. His expertise on the region earned him the position of district attorney in the Orleans territory. The second section is a journal of his expedition with fur trader Manuel Lisa up the Missouri River in 1811. He describes the fur trade as well as the founding of the Missouri Fur Company. Overall, Brackenridge’s text was one of the earliest descriptions of the area after the Louisiana Purchase and provides insight as to the early years of western settlement.

Clark II, 136; Howes, B688; Raines, p. 30; Sabin 7177; Streeter, 1776; Wagner-Camp, 12-:1.