Welcome to Henry's Travel Blog!
Although he kept detailed business papers, Missouri Botanical Garden founder Henry Shaw left little personal material for biographers to consider in analyzing his life. One of the few items which remain is a series of five journals. Following his retirement from the hardware business in 1840, Shaw traveled abroad and made notes, recollections, and even sketches in these small bound books. Join us as we chart Henry's journey to Europe and beyond.
 
Shaw's variable spellings, punctuation, and grammar, preserved throughout, are typical even for well-educated gentlemen in the 19th Century. Important note (4/14/09): The entries from March 11, 2009 through April 8, 2009, correspond to recently discovered text from Henry Shaw's journal. They will be posted online under the correct dates to preserve chronological accuracy.
 
   
   

Posted Online Tuesday, February 17, 2009

July 13, 1840: Through Illinois


Landed at Peru and immediately got extra stage coaches to carry us to Chicago a distance of 100 miles. We were 18 passengers in all - nine in each stage and being find weather had a most agreeable ride across the prairies - which at this season are covered with verdure a land of vast extent.

Passed or forded Fox River and afterwards the Des Plains both tributaries of the Illinois. The road is good and for the most part level and country favorable for the construction of the canal undertaken by the state of Illinois to connect Lake Michigan with the river. The work is said to be already half completed and some progress making to finish it.

When within 9 miles of Chicago came to a low swampy country which occupied several hours to pass.

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