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[Detail] Ships at the Erie Basin, New York.

Standards

Collection Overview

Westward by Sea: A Maritime Perspective on American Expansion,1820-1890, presents diaries, letters, logbooks, photographs and other materials that document sea travel and the role of maritime events in the westward expansion of the United States. Of special interest are writings of children describing their shipboard experiences and the adventures involved in traveling westward.

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Special Features

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Historical Eras

These historical era(s) are best represented in the collection although they may not be all-encompassing.

  • Expansion and Reform, 1801-1861
  • The Civil War and Reconstruction, 1850-1877
  • Development of the Industrial United States, 1876-1915

Related Collections and Exhibits

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