Route as traced via Google Maps.

1851 Letter from Harvey Seaman to parents in Delancey, Delaware County, NY describing a trip by sail from NY to California via Cape Horn. Excerpts from page 1:

Much Loved Parents,

"After a long voyage of 164 days Charles and I arrived in California safe and sound and I assure you that it is with feelings of peculiar gratitude to know that I am again on land, and in a country where we can reciprocate those kindred feelings of friendship, even in this remote way. And I take opportunity of the first mail to let you know my situation, well knowing your many hopes and fears and anxieties towards me. And thus has it been with me, not a day has rolled its giddy round but voluntarily my thoughts have wandered to friends in old Delaware. Many a time have I sat on deck, when viewing some lovely scenery and wished for some brother or sister, to be with me for a time, that they might enjoy the treat, so have I sat their in the still hour of night, when not a breath disturbed the mighty [deep], and the silent moon was pouring her silvery radiance over the wide expanse of waters, and  thought of friends, far away, and fancied that I saw them as in days gone by...

...Before I say anything about San Francisco, I will give you a few brief sketches of my experience...

Courtesy of the Delaware County Historical Association Archives, 46549 State Hwy 10, Delhi, NY, 13753.

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