Qass -Xlst Book >Q'4 ADVICE ^' / GUIDE TO EMIGRANTS OaSyG TO THE 7 1' UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. By P;0' KELLY, Esq. IUiN3LAT0R AKIr TUBLISHER OF ABBE MAC-GEOGHEGAK'S HISTORY OF lUELAKD. DUBLIN: PRINTED BY WILLIAM FOLDS, 59, GREAT STRAND-STREET. 1834. ll^H i 30 PREFACE. The author of this treatise on America, begs the liberty of informing his countrymen, that he resided in Kentucky, and subsequently in Baltimore, during six years, previously to his going to France with his family for the exclusive object of their education. The death of a brother was the sole cause of his having left the United States, where he spent the above period, at the head of a flourishing academy, as will appear in the course of this work, which, it is hoped, may produce some good to emigrants who may be eager, as he himself had been, to make that land of freedom their future residence for life. Every thing that was possible to be gleaned, through the frequent opportunities which oc- curred to him, both from personal observations and an intercourse with citizens of that country, had been care- fully committed to writing, and arranged for publication, before the history of Ireland, alluded to, had been com- menced. Having now completed this arduous under- taking, and seeing that the United States of America are but slenderly noticed by some who have endeavoured to impress upon the minds of emigrants, a predilection for the Canadas, the author, ^^'ith a zealous wish to direct for the better, Irishmen and others intent on emigration, recommends to them, in making choice for improving their condition in life, to weigh,* with attention, the several circumstances which are pointed out. ir PREFACE. In alluding to the Canadas, as being unfit for our coun- trymen who risk their lives and all they possess, in quest of comfort and indepeu dance, our object is, to prove, that the United States are superior to any other part of the western hemisphere ; and therefore it should be admitted, that the emigrant ought to make a choice in settling, where his advantages and prospects would be obviously the best. A few simple questions will make the thing more clear, in contrasting the Canadas with the United States. In what part of America is the emigrant likely to meet the best and most inviting climate ? I answer, in the United States. In what place will be have the opportunity of meeting speedy employment, good wages, and prospects of becoming independent in a few years ? I answer, hkewise, in the United States. Wliere half the year is winter, as in Canada, the cli- mate must be severe : where the settlers are compara- tively few, and such as have commenced their career with limited means, the want of labourers or mechanics amongst them, must be moderate indeed. Being firmly convinced, therefore, of the superior advantages which may be reasonably expected to be met with in the United States, by a well-conducted and industrious Irishman, the author of this treatise confidently advises his countrymen to emigrate to the United States of America, in prefer- ence to any other part of the world. Dublin, 20, Grenville-street, Mountjoy-square, February 1, 1834. TESTIMONIALS OF MR. O'KELLY'S HAVING LIVED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Be it known to all men, that Mr. Patrick O' Kelly, who has lived for several years in Louisville, at the head of a flourishing academy, has been generally esteemed by his employers, and his numerous acquaintances, both as a literary character and an excellent citizen. Strong in his faith, he and his interesting lady have edified their fellow Catholics, by faithfully attending divine service, and receiving regularly the sacraments of the church. Given under my Hand and Seal, on the IGthof June, 1823. (Signed) >J< BENEDICT JOSEPH, Bishop of Bardstown, State of Kentucky, United States. I do certify the same of Mr. Patrick O'Kellv, during his residence in Baltimore. (Signed) >5< AMB. Arch. Bait. Baltimore, 14th July, 1823. ® The seal O3 ® The Seal '% © of « * ® Archbishop ® © Rt.Rev. Bishop ^ © ofitoltimore q ^ Flaget. © I certify that the annexed documents arc the auto- graphs of the Bishop of Bairdstown, and of the late Archbishop of Baltimore. (Signed) >J< JOHN, Bishop of Charleston. Kilkenny, July 6, 1833. TESTIMONIALS. Baltimore, 16th July, 182a Mr. P. O'Kelly, Dear Sir, — Your being on your departure for Europe, where consideration of feeling and interest takes you, I wish to express my regret at the loss our community sustains in being deprived of your talents, your excellent moral character, and your indefatigable industry, which I have been witness to for a long time. I trust the change may prove beneficial and agreeable. I regret my want of acquaintance with any individual in Dublin, to express my sentiments of you, and to aid in making known your many excellent qualities. Wishing you and family a pleasant voyage, I am, dear Sir, Your Friend and Servant, (Signed,) LUKE TIERNAN. I am well acquainted with the hand-writing of the Ri* must be allowed by every man who has.been V amongst them, to be extremely affable, attentive, *1^ and polite to strangers — hospitality too is found ^ to prevail extensively in the United States. The various religious sects that are to be met with in America, are often found from their writings, and at their preaching-houses, to attack those of opposite persuasions. An Irishman, on his arrival amongst them, whereas it will be his interest to conciliate the good opinion of all, ought to avoid carefully to in- termix in any of their disputes, and to appear perfectly disinterested upon all religious topics, ^ except in this particular, that, whether he be Catholic or Protestant, &c., he should attend well, according even to the Americans, to what- ever religion he professes. A greater latitude and indifference on the score of religion, is allowed to prevail amongst emigrants lately arrived in the United States than amongst the Americans themselves. It is admitted by many Irish cler- gymen who have been amongst them, that they are before our country-people in their religious practices, particularly the Catholics. A pre- dilection for those of their own tenets, displays itself strongly amongst all the sects except the latter — these, it is well known, are the most tenacious of conferring favours upon men of their own creed. There is nothing which should be more 20 strongly impressed on the minds of our country- men when emigrating than the dangers conse- quent upon indulging in the use of spirits ; it is a habit so peculiar to the lower classes of the Irish settled in the United States, that, if a man be seen drunk in that country, it is immedi- f ately inferred, he must be an Irishman. This * are Scotch : tlie first settlers were from Massa- cliusetts and Connecticut. Bennington and Montpelier are its cliief towns. The State of Connecticut lies in the south- vrest part of the New England States. Its chief rivers are the Connecticut and Housota- nick: the course of the former is 300 miles, and falls into Long Island sound. New London is the best harbour in tliis State. The chief productions are Indian corn, rye, wheat, oats, and barley, which are heavy and good in many places ; also buck wheat, flax in large quanti- ties, hemp, potatoes of several kinds, pumpkins, turnips, peas, beans, fruits of all kinds common to the climate. The soil of Connecticut is well calculated for pasture and mowing, which en- able the farmers to feed large numbers of cattle and horses. The beef and pork, butter and cheese, of this state, are equal to any in the United States. The trade of Connecticut is introduced more minutely than that of Massachusetts, in order that emigrants who are not aware of the extent of commerce in the United States, may learn from this the general appearance of trade amongst them. The merchants of Connecticut export prin- cipally to the West India islands belonging to the French and Dutch, in vessels which gene- rally average from 60 to 140 tons. Their ex- 65 ports consist of horses, mules, oxen, oak staves, lioops, pine boards, oak plank, beans, Indian corn, fisli, beef, pork, &c. The people of tliis State carry on also an extensive coasting trade. To Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New Hamphire, they carry pork, wheat, corn, and rye. To north and south Carolina, and Georgia, butter, cheese, salted beef, cyder, apples, potatoes, and hay, are sent ; and in return they receive rice, in- digo, and money. To New York are forwarded j>ot and pearl ashes, flax seed, and provisions of every kind, in large quantities. The produc- tions of Vermont, New Hampshire, and the western parts of Massachusetts, are floated down the river Connecticut, and contribute largely to the great coasting trade of this State. Connecticut is the most populous, in propor- tion to its extent, of any of the United States. It is laid out in small farms, of from fifty to three or four hundred acres each, which are held by the farmers in fee-simple. The whole State resembles a well-cultivated garden, whicli, with that degree of industry essential to hap- piness, produces all the necessaries and conve- niences of life, in great plenty. There ai'e a great number of very pleasant towns, both maritime and inland, in Connec- ticut. It contains five incorporated towns, or cities, viz., Hartford, New Haven, New London, f3 Norwich, and Middlctown. Two of these, Hartford and New Haven, are the capitals of the State. The general assembly is held at the former in May, at the latter in October, annu- ally. Hartford is situated at the head of navi- gation, on the west side of Connecticut river, about fifty miles from its entrance into the sound ; it is advantageously situated for trade, has a fine back country, enters largely into the manufacturing business, and is both rich and commercial. New Haven lies round the head of a bay, which makes up about four miles north from the sound. It covers part of a large plain which is circumscribed on three sides by high hills, or mountains. Two small rivers bound the city east and west. The town was origi- nally laid out in squares of sixty rods. The public square is encircled with rows of trees, which render it both convenient and delightful. In salubrity of air, and situation. New Haven is not exceeded by any city in America. It car- ries on a considerable trade with New York and the West India islands. New London stands on the west side of the river Thames, near its entrance into the sound. Its harbour is the best in Connecticut. A con- siderable part of the town was burned by Benedict Arnold, in 1781, but has been since re-built. 67 Norwich stands at the head of Tliarnes river, twelve or fourteen miles north of New London. It is a great commercial town, has a rich and extensive back country, and avails itself of its natural advantages at the head of navigation. Its situation upon a river which affords a great number of convenient seats for mills, and water machines of all kinds, renders it very eligible in a commercial point of view. The inhabitants are not neglectful of the advantages which na- ture has so liberally given them. They manu- facture paper of all kinds, stockings, clocks and watches, chaises, buttons, stone and earthen ware, wire, oil, chocolate, bells, anchors, and all kinds of forge work. Middletown is pleasantly situated on the western bank of Connecticut river, fifteen miles south of Hartford. It carries on a large and increasing trade. Yale College, in New Haven, was founded in 1700. The buildings are, Connecticut Hall, 100 feet long, and 40 wide, with 32 convenient rooms, a chapel, library, museum, and dining hall, all built of brick. The college library has several thousand volumes. The philosophical apparatus consists of the principal machines necessary for the whole course of experimental philosophy. A celebrated writer and citizen of America makes the following strong allusions, as charac- teristic of their freedom in the United States. " The people who live under a free government, have no fear of a tyrant. There are no over- grown estates, with rich and ambitious land- lords, to have an undue and pernicious influence in the election of civil officers. Property is equally enough divided, and must continue to be so, as long as estates descend as they now do. No person is prohibited from voting, or from being elected into office, on account of his poverty. He who has the most merit, not he who has the most money, is generally chosen into public office. As instances of this, it is to be observed, that many of the citizens of Con- necticut, from the humble walks in life, have risen to the first offices in the state, and filled them with dignity and reputation. That base business of electioneering, which is so directly calculated to introduce Avicked and designing men into office, is yet but little known in Con- necticut. A man who wishes to be chosen into office, acts wisely for that end when he keeps his desires to himself." The State of Rhode Island is a noted resort for invalids from southern climates. Travellers say that it is noted for its fine women, and call it the Eden of America. It suffered greatly in the firt American war. Many of its finest country seats were destroyed ; their fine groves, 69 orcliarda, and fruit trees, wantonly cut down. The soil is of a superior quality. Providence and Taunton rivers both fall into Narraganset bay. The former is navigable so far as Providence, thirty miles from the sea ; the latter is navigable for small vessels to Taun- ton. The winters, in the maritime part of this State, are milder than in the inland parts. The summers are delightful, especially on Rhode Island, where the extreme heats which prevail in other parts of America, are allayed by cool and refreshing breezes from the sea. The western and northwestern parts of this State are but thinly inhabited, being barren and rocky. In that called the Narraganset country, the planters are chiefly graziers, and raise great numbers of the finest and largest cattle in America. They also keep large dairies, and make cheese and butter for exportation. Narra- ganset is famed for an excellent breed of pacing horses. They are strong, and remarkable for their speed, and for their being capable to en- dure the fatigues of a long journey. Newport and Providence are the principal towns in this State. The harbour of Newport is one of the finest in the world ; the entrance into it is safe and easy, and a large fleet can ride at anchor with perfect security. The fish market is also said to be the finest in the world. 70 Providence is situated on Providence river, about thirty miles north-west of Newport. It is represented as the most flourishing town in the State of Rhode Island ; it carries on a large foreign trade, and an extensive traffick with the surrounding country. In the first war with Great Britain, the troops of Rhode Island distinguished themselves par- ticularly for their patriotic spirit, and the second general in the field, viz., General Greene, was a native of that State. The State of New Jersey is washed on the east and south-east by Hudson's river and the ocean, and on the west by the river Delaware. One-fourth of this State is a sandy barren, unfit for cultivation. The land on the sea-coast in this and the more southern States, have every appearance of made ground. All the varieties of soil, from the best to the worst, are to be met with in this State. The markets of New York and Philadelphia, get a great portion of their supplies from the adjoining parts of New Jersey. The cider of this State is said to be the best in the world. The greatest source of wealth to its inhabitants, are its iron mines ; in one county alone there are seven of them, which would be equal to supply the whole of the United States. There are two colleges in this State, one at 71 Princeton, called Nassau Hall. The other, at Brunswick, called Queen's College. The edu- cation of the lower classes is neglected. Trenton is the largest town in New Jersey, and the seat of government. Burlington and Perth Amboy, denominated cities, are also im- portant places in this State. Princeton is said to be a healthy pleasant village. The following lines are from the pen of an American writer : — " New Jersey was, for a long time, the seat of the revolutionary war between America and Great Britain. When General Washington was retreating through the Jerseys, almost forsaken by all others, her militia were at all times obe- dient to his orders. There is hardly a town in the State, that lay in the progress of the British army, which was not rendered signal by some enterprise or exploit : at Trenton the enemy received a check, which may be said, with jus- tice, to have turned the tide of the war. At Princeton, the seat of the Muses, they received another, which, united, obliged them to retire with precipitation, and to take refuge in dis- graceful winter quarters. Tiie many military achievements performed by the Jersey soldiers, give this State one of the first ranks among her sisters, in a military view, and entitle her to a share of praise, to which her size bears no pro- 72 portion, in the accomplishment of the late glo- rious revolution." The State of Delaware is one of the smallest in the Union. Its rivers are Chopt;ink, Nan- ticok, and Pocomoke ; they are navigable into the country about twenty or thirty miles, for vessels of fifty or sixty tons, and running west- wardly fall into the Chesapeak bay. The south part of this State is a low flat country, and a considerable portion of it lies in forest. What is under cultivation is chiefly barren, except in Indian corn, of which it pro- duces fine crops. Where nature is deficient in one resource, she is generally bountiful in ano- ther. This is verified in the tall thick forests of pines, which are manufactured into boards, and exported in large quantities into every seaport in the three adjoining States. In the northern parts the soil is more fertile, and produces wheat in large quantities, which is the staple commodity of Delaware. All the other kinds of grain common to Pensylvania, are raised in it. Dover is the chief town, and seat of govern- ment. It has a lively appearance, and drives on a considerable trade with Pensylvania. The landing is five or six miles from the town of Daver. The other towns are, Newcastle, on the Delaware river, thirty-five miles below Phila- 73 delpbia ; it was formerly the seat of government, but has at present an appearance of decay. — Wilmington is situated one mile and a half west of Delaware river, on Christiana Creek, twenty- eight miles south of Philadelphia. This town is handsomely built on a gentle ascent, and shows to great advantage as you sail up the Delaware. There is a flourishing academy here. The State of Maryland is bounded, north, by Pensylvania ; east, by the Delaware State ; south-east and south, by the Atlantic Ocean ; south, south-west, and west, by the State of Virginia. The climate is generally mild and agreeable, suited to agricultural productions, and a great variety of fruit trees. In the in- terior hilly country, the inhabitants are healthy, but in the flat country in the neighbourhood of marshes and stagnant waters, they are, as in the southern states, subject to fever and ague. The character of the eastern shore, as to health- fulness, &c., has already been introduced. The Chesapeak Bay divides this State into the eastern and western divisions : it receives a number of the largest rivers in the United States. On the east, the Pokomoke, Choptank, Chester, and Elk rivers flow into it. From the north, the rapid Susquehannah ; from the west, Patapsco, Severn, Patuxent, and Patcmak, half of which is in Maryland and half in Virginia. 74 All these rivers are small, except the Susque- hannah and Patomak. Annapolis, thirty miles south of Baltimore, is the seat of the government of Maryland : it is situated at the mouth of Severn river, and is said to be the richest town in America. The exports of this state are principally shipped from Baltimore, situate on Patapsco river, and one of the neatest and most enterpris- ing cities in the Union ; its population is at least 80,000. Having already given some particulars of this flourishing place and its inhabitants, our limits oblige us to hasten to another State; re- commending anxiously, at the same time, to the emigrant to seek, on his arrival at Liverpool, or ' at any other seaport, a vessel bound for Balti- more, in preference to any other port in the United States, because from here he will be able to bend his course either for the Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, Illinois, or the Messouri, &c., dropping in by the United States road to Wheeling, forty miles below Pittsburg, or he can shape his course through Maryland, for the State of Pensylvania, as conveniently from Baltimore as from Philadelphia. If a ship cannot be got immediately for either of these two ports, let not the emigrant be stop- ping at Liverpool, or any other seaport, for a promised ship; neither let him listen to any 75 broker, or fellow imposing his advice. No man can be deceived in what he sees. If the ship be about to sail, the berths, will be ready to receive the passengers ; therefore let them go on board, and their luggage, paying only a portion of the passage-money. Let them strive to lower the fare that will be asked. New York is, under the above events occur- ring, the third seaport to be calculated upon. This State, as has been already observed, is not so desirable for farmers, labourers, servants, (male or female,) as the two above named. — Mechanics also have a right to look to the west- ern states, but not to lose the opportunity of taking ship for New York, if it be the first that will arise at Liverpool, or elsewhere. Good tradesmen are always in demand. What should prevent an able-bodied mechanic to assist in reaping the harvest, if no other employment starts up on his arrival? An American vessel is the preferable one to go with : they give better accommodation, and their ships are considered the best sailers. The character of the vessel should be likewise con- sidered — it is dangerous to go by an old one — there have been instances of old vessels going to pieces in a storm. Give me a good new ship, copper-bottomed, and let it blow hurri- 76 canes, tlie whole passage, except near to land or rocks, and I would not fear the result. The expences to be incurred by journeying to the west, by the routes already touched upon, should not discourage any stout man to get through the whole distance, from one hundred to a thousand miles, without a pound. Let every emigrant be determined to brave every inci- dental difficulty, and when once in the United States, provided he goes in the last days of April, or during the first days of May, he must eventually succeed. He an-ives among a gener- ous people when he gets to the United States : they have a feeling for the stranger : they have means to employ every man who is inclined to work, and not to be a burden to their country. But let the idler, and the drunkard, stay at home. These, no doubt, could meet similar characters in the United States, but they would be few, and without patronage or money. This little digression from the main subject (viz., the description of the remaining states) is a matter of so much importance to the man leaving his country for ever, that it cannot be too often repeated, and will convince the emigrant, who goes to where the advantages are so supe- rior to any thing that can arise at home, under the present aspect of the world, that he should 77 use all energy and steady perseverance to ac- complish his object. Tlie state of Pensylvania, is bounded on the north by the state of New York ; on the south by Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia ; on the east by Delaware river; on the west by Virginia, Ohio, and lake Erie. There are six considerable rivers in this state, viz. the Delaware, Schuilkill, Susquehannah, Yohogany, Monongahela, and Alleghany ; from the ocean to the city of Philadelphia, there is sufficient depth of water for a seventy-four gun ship. At Trenton thirty-five miles above this, is the head of sloop navigation ; but for boats carrying eight or nine tons, the Delaware is navigable for fifty miles further There is an university in Philadelphia, and a medical school which has attained great cele- brity, attached to it. At Lancaster also is Franklin's College, so called after Dr. Franklin. This institution is principally for the Germans, who have secured ample funds for its support. By the Constitution of Pensylvania, estab- lished in 1776, all legislative power is lodged in a single body of men, styled " The general assembly of representatives of the freemen of Pensylvania." The qualification required to render a person eligible to this assembly, is, two g3 78 years residence in the city or county for which he is chosen. The qualifications of the electors are, " full age and one years residence in the state, with payment of public taxes for that time. But the sons of freeholders are entitled to vote for representatives, without any qualification except full age. No man can be elected as a member of the assembly, more than four years in seven. The representatives are chosen annually, on the second Tuesday in October, and they meet on the fourth Monday of the same month. The supreme executive power, is lodged in a president and a council, consisting of a member from each county. The president is elected annually, by the joint ballot of the assembly and council. A vice president is chosen at the same time. Tlie counsellors are chosen by the freemen, every third year, and having served three years, they are ineligible for the four succeeding years. The appointments of one third only of the mem- bers, expire every year, by which rotation no more than one third can be new members. The state of Virginia is bounded on the north, by Pensylvania, Maryland, and Ohio ; south by North Carolina ; east by the Atlantic ocean ; and west by Kentucky. This state is together with the Carolinas and 79 Georgia, the least inviting for emigrants to reside in. Slavery prevails here in its fullest sense, being overspread with slave owners and their plantations. Tobacco is the staple commodity of Virginia. Richmond containing about 15,000 inhabi- tants, is the seat of government. It is situated on the north side of James river. Norfolk is the second town of importance in this state; it stands also upon James river. Petersburg next in note stands on the south side of Appamattox river ; it is considered very unhealthy to reside in it. Considerable quan- tities of tobacco are shipped in this place, every year. Williamsburg, 60 miles to the east of Rich- mond, stands on two creeks, one of which falls into James river, the other into York river, and is not so thriving a place, as the above towns. Yorktown, thirteen miles eastward from Wil- liamsburg, is situate on the south side of York river. It was rendered famous by the capture of Lord Cornwallis and his army, on the nine- teenth of October 1781, by the united forces of France and America. The education of the planters children throughout Virginia, may be considered to be res- pectably attended to. The more wealthy among them, employ private tutors, and in several 80 places have established academies superintended by able professors from the eastern colleges of New England. The planters being in general very wealthy, are inclined to pay respectable salaries (as has been already noticed,) to gentle- men of good literary acquirements. To land in^ Richmond, would be a fair prospect for a young man possessing the necessary qualifications for a teacher; if he would not meet immediate employment in that city, he might be sure of succeeding among some of the rich planters of this state. The respectable Virginians are spoken of by the Americans, to be extremely hospitable and very genuine in their dealings. The district of Columbia composes a small tract of territory, ten miles square, ceded to Congress by the states of Virginia and Maryland; here stands the city of Washington, and seat of the United States Government. The river Patomak which is navigable for the largest ships to Alex- andria, adds the first importance to what may be termed the capital of the United States. Georgetown which might be called a continua- tion of Washington, is situated upon the same river : the college here, is celebrated among the literary institutions of America; it belongs to the Jesuits. Alexandria situate on the south side of the Patomak, possesses a large trade in provisions, 81 floar, and tobacco; it stands within six miles of the city of Washington. A canal to connect the Patomak with the Ohio, is progressing rapidly. The state of Kentucky is bounded, north and west, by the river Ohio, which separates it from the states of Indiana and Ohio, south by the state of Tennessee, and east by Virginia. Frankfort on the Kentucky river, is the seat of Government. Some of the principal towns of this state, and their literary establishments, have been already introduced. Tobacco is raised extensively throughout Kentucky, and the culture of wheat, hemp, flax, barley, and Indian corn, is followed up by the planters, who arc also largely concerned in the distillation of whiskey. From the facility of feed- ing swine, in their extensive woods, with what is called the mast^ which signifies the nuts of the beech and other trees, the planters are enabled to export quantities of bacon and ham, to New Orleans and the West India markets. These are as good in flavour and quality, as any made in Ireland. What renders the meat so good, is, the planters feed their hogs with Indian corn, for a few weeks previous to their being slaughtered. The whole state of Kentucky, appears to a traveller, to be an interminable wood of trees of astonishing height, thickness, and beauty. The planters are in the habit of making their own sugar from the maple tree. It is said that IjOOOlbs. are the usual quantity produced from 250 trees. To describe the process of extracting this valuable article of home consumption, is not necessary in this place, as it will be a matter easily learned from the planters, by the new settler. The climate of Kentucky is delightful and healthy, except in the neighbourhood of ponds or low grounds. The city of Louisville was during the fall, proverbially sickly, for many years, but is at present as healthy, as any town in the state. As a proof of this, the growth of that place, is within the last six or seven years, almost incredible. It has been deservedly called from the gi'eat commerce prevailing with all the neighbouring states and New Orleans, the New York of the West. Here the merchant who goes to the western states, seeking to locate himself for the purposes of trading, would act wisely to stop, and see if Louisville would not suit his calculations. The expenses of boarding in this city are moderate. The markets are so abundantly supplied, and price of provisions so low, that it is possible to get into a respectable boarding house, for 2i dollars per week, 10s. 8d. British. There are many commission merchants estab- 83 lished in Louisville, to whom large consignments of merchandise are forwarded from the eastern cities. The usual mode to dispose of goods, is, to sell by public auction. The purchaser some- times bids so low as I of a cent, viz. half a farthing, in competing with the man who bids against him. The Americans are so knowing on these occasions, that it would require experience to meet them in their modes of buying and selling. The profits that a Kentucky merchant would hope to derive from mercantile specula- tions, are immoderately great, sometimes 50, sometimes 100 per cent. It cannot therefore create surprise, when it is asserted, that many merchants of Louisville, have built in the vicinity of that city, houses fit for nobleman to reside in. Except to those intent upon trade, or to me- chanics, Louisville is not recommended to other classes of emigrants. If farmers and labourer? pass the state of Ohio, then it is a matter of prudence, to turn to the state of Indiana, which is not many miles distant from Cincinnati, which stands in the south west part of the state of Ohio. In Louisville which is opposite to the Indiana shore, it would be possible to obtain every information concerning that state, and find the exact route that is to be taken to Indianopolis, the seat of the government of 84 Indiana. This being a free state as well as Ohio, emigrants can more securely undertake to purchase in it, than in Kentucky, (of which we have already spoken,) Clarksville, and Jeffer- son vi lie, two neat towns on the Indiana side, can be viewed from Louisville. As a matter appertaining to commerce, it must be mentioned here, that a canal has been very lately made from the river Ohio above the falls,* which connects again with the river at Shipping port, a mile and a half below Louisville* This has been of the first importance to that flourish- ing place, and the health of the citizens. Many marshes that were in the immediate neighbour- hood became drained by it, and no inconsiderable portion of land brought into cultivation. The society to be met with in Louisville is of such a grade, as that any stranger coming amongst them, must feel surprised to witness so much elegance and urbanity, at a distance of 950 miles from any of the eastern cities. The wealthy portion of the inhabitants, enjoy them- i^elves with all the splendour which wealth and respectability can impart. All the independant planters within several miles of Louisville, are to be seen driving in with their families and * The falls are a ledg-e of rocks quite across the rivee and hitherto obstructing the navigation of the Ohio durins the summer mouths. 85 carriages almost daily, as if to enjoy the festive and social intercourse of its citizens. Vincennes a considerable town though not the capital of Indiana, is situated on the Wabasli river. If the emigrant seeking to purchase land pass Ohio and Indiana, he should touch at Vincennes which would be in the direction pf Illinois. Indiana is bounded on the north by the Michigan territory; on the south by the Ohio which separates it from Kentucky ; on the east by the state of Ohio ; and west by Illinois. The state of Ohio is bounded on the north by the territory of Michigan and lake Erie ; on the south by the river Ohio which separates it from Virginia and Kentucky; on the east by Vir- ginia ; and on the west by the state of Indiana. Columbus, in the interior, is the seat of govern- ment. Cincinnati is, beyond all comparison, the handsomest city in America, 500 miles below Pittsburg and 200 above Louisville; this is a kind of of central point for the commerce, of all the adjoining states ; opposite to Cincin- nati, some of the richest lands of Kentucky are to be seen, and the flourishing town of Newport. Not many miles from it a company of Swiss have raised a vineyard where wine of excellent flavour and quality is made ; the \^ine is an indi- genous production of the:se two states, u 86 The state of Ohio, it cannot be superfluous to repeat it, merits all the regard due by emigrants to the most inviting portion of the United States. The character of its inhabitants is equally hos- pitable, kind, and polite to strangers, as that of the Kentucky planters. At Portsmouth a canal connecting the waters of the Ohio with lake Erie, has been carried into completion. This as well as the canal in the state of New York, which connects the Hudson with lake Erie also, is a work of truly national importance. It fills the mind of an European with surprise, to behold the citizens of the United States carry works of such magnitude into effect, in the short space of some ten or twelve years. A rail road is at present carrying on in the state of Illinois, which will establish a quick and commercial communication between lake Michigan, and the Illinois river, which flows into the Mississippi. The towns of Steubenville, where there is an extensive cloth manufactory, Portsmouth, Alex- andria, Marietta, Galliopolis, and several neat villages are on the banks of the Ohio. Chilicothe, is also a town of importance in the interior. At Mayesville called also Limestone which is the first town of note with a brisk trade, that is met with in Kentucky, when sailing down the river, the emigrant ought to spend a day and make enquiries, in what part of Ohio, the best situa- 87 lions for agriculturists, could be looked for. From Mayesville also, the traveller may pass through the centre of Kentucky ; a mechanic may meet many opportunities for employment, when he arrives at Lexington and other inter- vening towns, if he pass through the middle parts of that state. Danville is a considerable town. Some of the richest lands are to be seen there, at Lexington and Frankfort. The finest oxen in the western states are in these parts of Kentucky, and are purchased by drovers for the eastern market. As an encouragement to mechanics and la- bourers wishing to proceed to the western states, they should not forget what has been already communicated, that there is a possibility of proceeding from Pittsburg or Wheeling, without any expense to them. There is always, while the waters of the Ohio are sufficiently deep for steam boats to proceed to Pittsburg, a want for hands to take in fire wood, &c. as they sail along. A free passage and diet are given gratis for assisting on these occasions. Family boats and barks built flat and spacious enough to contain some cows, horses &c. on their deck, afford similar opportunities, for assisting to row, &c. &c. to the emigrant proceeding to the western states. Every emigrant upon his ar- rival at Pittsburg, if he possess the means, 8S should buy some implements of husbandry, if the purchase of land be his object ; a chest of tools will be likewise necessary. The Muskingum, Sioto, and great Miami, arc considerable rivers in the State of Ohio, and fall into the river of the same name. The Wabash and White rivers flow through the State of Indiana, and fall into the Ohio. Kas- kaskias and illinois fall into the Mississippi, passing through the State of Illinois. North Carolina is bounded by Virginia on the north ; east, by the Atlantic Ocean ; south, by South Carolina and Georgia ; west, by the State of Tennessee. Cape Fear River opens into the sea at Cape Fear, and affords the best navigation in iNortli Carolina. Pamlico Sound is from ten to twenty miles broad, and one hundred in length ; it is sepa- rated in its whole length from the sea, by a beach of sand, hardly a mile broad. Cape Hatteras, in latitude 35® 15', is to be dreaded by mariners with large vessels. If they come within twenty miles of the cape, it is too shallow for them in some places; if they stand farther off, they are in danger of falling into the gulf stream, which would set them north- ward three or four miles an hour. It is to be 89 observed, that violent storms of rain, and gusts of wind, are very frequent around this cape. Cape Fear is remarkable for a dangerous shoal, called, from its form, the Frying-pan, Dismal Swamp, spreads over the whole tract of country which lies between Pamlico and Albemarle sounds, and needs no other descrip- tion tlian is conveyed by its name. The principal towns of this State are, New- bern, Edenton, Wilmington, ^Hallifax, Hills- borough, and Fayetteville. Wheat, rye, barley, oats, and flax, grow well in the back hilly country. Cotton is largely cultivated ; it is planted yearly ; the stalk dies with the frost. The southern interior counties carry their produce to Charleston, and the nor- thern to Petersburgh, in Virginia. The exports from the lower parts of the State are, tar, pitch, turpentine, rosin, Indian corn, lumber, furs, tobacco, pork, &c. Their trade is principally with the West Indies, and the northern states. The form of their government is liberally constituted. All legislative authority is vested in two distinct branches, both dependent on the people, viz., a senate, and house of commons, which, when convened for business, are styled, the General Assembly, The senate is composed of representatives, one for each county, chosen annually by ballot. h3 90 The house of commons consists of representa- tives chosen in the same way, two fOr each county, and one for each of the towns. The senate and house of commons, when convened, jointly, by ballot, at their first meet- ing after each annual election, choose a governor for one year, who is not eligible to that office longer than three years in six successive years. He must possess freehold property of £1000 a year, and have resided in the state for five years. They, in the same manner, elect seven persons more, as a council of state for one year, to ad- vise the governor in the execution of his office. The constitution allows of no religious dis- tinction. South Carolina is bounded, east, by the At- lantic Ocean ; north, by North Carolina ; south- west and south, by Savannah river, which divides it from Georgia. The sea coast is bordered with a chain of fine sea islands, around which the sea flows, opening an inland navigation, which affords the oppor- tunity of sending their produce to market. — These islands are, in general, favourable for the culture of indigo. Charleston is the only city in this state. It is situated on a tongue of land, formed by the confluence of the Ashley and Cooper rivers, which are large and navigable. The harbour 91 communicates with the ocean at Sullivan's Is- land, seven miles south-east of the city. Char- leston is more healthy than any part of the low country in the southern states. On this account it is a great resort for gentlemen planters of the interior country, and for invalids from the West Indies, who come hither to spend the sickly months during the fall. Their neighhours of Kentucky speak in terms of praise of the in- habitants of Charleston. In this city our truly estimable countryman and divine, the Right Rev. Doctor England, resides : he is bishop of North and South Carolina, Georgia, and the Floridas. There are many different religious sects in this city, whose houses of worship are well built, and respectably maintained. A state house, an exchange, and armoury, are noticed among the public buildings of Charleston. This city is said to be about the same size, popula- tion, and commercial importance as Boston, state of Massachusetts. During the vigorous contest for independence, South Corolina was a great sufferer ; for three years it was the seat of war. Rice and indigo are extensively cultivated : the former constitutes the staple commodity of the state. Cotton, tobacco, and silk, are also numbered among its valuable productions. — Slavery is the same here as in Kentucky. 92 The state of Georgia is bounded, east, by the Atlantic Ocean ;] south, by East and West Flo- rida, and comprising the Allabamas, on the west, by the Mississippi river ; north and north- east, by the Carolinas. Its chief town, Augusta, is situated on the south-west bank of Savannah river, 134 miles from the sea. Savannah is another town of importance on the same river, and within 17 miles of the sea. Sunbury is a seaport town, with a safe and convenient harbour; it was burnt by the British, during the war for Ame- rican independence. The rivers in the western parts of this state flow southwardly, and fall into the Gulf of Mexico. Rice, tobacco, indigo, sago, naval stores, lea- ther, deer-skins, snake root, myrtle, bees' wax, corn, live stock, are the principal exports from the state of Georgia. Some tribes of Indians, and the most numer- ous that are settled in the United States, inhabit some parts of the state of Georgia. They are known by the names of the Muskogee, Semi- nolas, Chactaw, and Chicasaw Indians. During the first war with Britain, Georgia was over-run by the English troops, and the in- habitants obliged to fly for safety into the neigh- bouring states. The sufferings and losses of her citizens were as great, in proportion to their 93 numbers and wealth, as in any of the states. Since the peace, tlie progress of tlie population of this state has been astonishingly rapid. The state of Tennessee is bounded, on the north, by Kentucky ; on the south, by the states of Georgia and South Carolina ; east, by North Carolina; and west, by the Mississippi river, which separates it from the Arkansa territory. Nashville is its chief town, and seat of govern- ment. The planters of Tennessee cultivate and ex- port cotton extensively. A considerable inland trade prevails between Nashville and Louisville, Kentucky. East and West Florida, lately ceded by Spain to the United States of America, are bounded on the north by Georgia ; south, by the Gulf of Mexico ; east, by the Atlantic Ocean ; and west, by the Mississippi. The Floridas lie in the form of an L. In climate, they do not differ materially from that of Georgia. In the southern parts of Florida, two crops of Indian corn are produced annually. The fruits and vegetables common to Georgia and the Carolinas, are common to the Floridas. St. Augustine, the capital of East Florida, is situated on the sea coast. Pensacola is the capital of West Florida. The bay on which the 94 town stands, forms a veiy commodious harbour, and vessels may ride secure from every wind. Louisiana is bounded on the east by the Mis- sissippi ; on the south, by the Gulf of Mexico ; on the west, by New Mexico ; and runs indefi- nitely north. Many fine rivers flow through Louisiana into the Gulf of Mexico. New Orleans, north latitude 30^ 2', is the capital : it stands on the east side of the Missis- sippi, and 105 miles from its entrance into the Gulf of Mexico. Situated in a fertile country, and on a noble river, and being within a few days sail of Mexico and the West Indies, New Orleans must be at all times the receptacle for the produce of those extensive and fertile states bordering upon the Mississippi and the Ohio, which will always se- cure to it its great commercial importance. This city was founded by Louis XIV. and was ceded, together with Louisiana, to the United States, during the late wars between France and England. In consequence of the bulk of the inhabitants of that city being of French descent, and speaking their native lan- guage, the laws are administered, partly by a French, and in part by an English tribunal. Any emigrant coming to reside at New Orleans, would be much benefited by having a good knowledge of the French language. 95 Many of the wealthy inhabitants leave this city during the fall of the year, and retire to Baton-rouge, a high and healthy situation on the Mississippi, not far from the city of Natches. The state of Illinois is bounded, north, by the north-western territory ; south, by the states of Kentucky and Missouri ; east, by Indiana ; and west, by the Mississippi river. The chief towns are Shaneentown, on the Ohio, and Vandalia, on the Illinois river. This state is considered to possess all the advantages of soil that can be desired by emi- grants.* The state of Missouri being the most westerly of all, will be the last, of course, which the emigrant will look to for a home. The oppor- tunities of employment will be fewer than in any of the preceding states, but the lands of Congress, surpass, in extent, any of the others. St. Louis, which stands on the Mississippi river, is the chief town of the Missouri state. Its growth in commerce and population have been rapid and considerable. The state of Mississippi, and the territory of Arkansas, lie east and west of the Mississippi river. New Orleans, the chief city of the south- west has been already introduced : its import- * Rail fencing cannot be so generally practised here a in the other states, timber being more scarce, in conse quence of its immense tracts of Prairies or meadows. 96 arice as a great trading city is well known to every citizen of the United States. The north-western territory lies to the w*st of Lake Michigan, and extends indefinitely to the Stony Mountains, which, some geographers say, are a continuation of the Andes in South America. The Mississippi river is supposed to be about 3000 miles long, and is navigable to the falls of St. Anthony, in latitude 44^ 30'. The Michigan territory is bounded on 'the north by Lake Huron ; on the south by the States of Indiana and Ohio ; on the east by the Lakes St. Clare and Erie ; and on the west by Lake Michigan, which belongs exclusively to the United States and is 900 miles in circumference. Petroit is capital of this territory. In concluding our advice to emigrants pro- ceeding to the United States of America, it is most earnestly recommended to the industrious classes of our countrymen, to let no earthly con- sideration short of competency and a prospect of being able to uphold it, prevent them from emi- grating to that country, so great and powerful in her resources, so just in her views of the rights of men, and so intent on advancing the prosperity of her people. FINIS, CONTENTS. Page Advice to Emigrants, 5 Caution to be used, 6 The best States, - 7 Title in Kentucky lands, 8 Louisville, - - 8 Ohio, - - - 8 Baltimore, - - 8 Planters in Ohio, - 8 Cincinnati, - - 10 Price of Lands, - 10 Travelling," - - 11 Coach drivers, - - 11 Hotels, - - 11 Mechanics, - - 13 Farmers and labourers, 14 Wages, - - - 14 Diet to labourers, - 14 Kentucky, education, 15 River Ohio, - - 17 Pensylvania towns, - 18 Pittsburg, - - 18 Religion, - - 20 Cheapness of liquor, - 20 Maryland, - - 21 Baltimore & Cincinnati, 22 Ladies and dress, - 23 House rent, &c. - 24 Education in Baltimore, 24 The Cathedral, - 25 The Dutch, - - 25 Labourers dieted, - 26 Season for emigrating, 26 Seaports to sail from, 27 Page Whom to consult, - 28 Rt. Rev. Dr. Conwell and Rev. Mr. Hogan, 29 Rates of market in Phi- ladelphia, - - 30 Fire wood, - - 31 Pensylvania, advantages, 32 Great fire in Baltimore, 33 Mode of building a log- house, - - - 35 Clearing land, see - 36 Price of lands, - 36 Bishop of Cincinnati, 37 Pittsburg, Chambers- burg, - - - 38 Hospitality, - - 39 Money fittest to be brought, - - 40 Kentucky Money, - 40 Yankee dealing, - 41 Harbour, &c. &c. of New York, - - 41 42 Ladies of New York, 43 Mercantile knowledge, 43 Rail roads, - - 44 Public works, - - 44 State of New York, 46 Productions, - - 47 Long Island, - - 47 Labourers go to England, 49 United States better than the Canadas, - 50 Irish Teachers, - 5[ CONTENTS. Pa^e The salaries paid, - 52 Emigrants having ample means, - - 53 Society in America, 53 The Tariff bill, - 54 Mrs. Trollop, - - 54 Various trades, - 55 fiea store, - - 56 Ladies well treated on landing, 57 Dress to be brought out, 57 Bummers and Winters in America, - - 58 American amusements, 60 Latitude and Longitude of the United States, 60 Boundaries, - - 61 New England States, 6 1 Boston and Cambridge College, - - 62 The five New England States, 63, 64, 65, 66y 67, 69, 70, New Jersey, - - 70 New Yerk, &c. markets supplied, - - 70 Character of the Jersey soldiers, - - 71 State of Delaware, - 72 State of Maryland, - 73 Passage to Baltimore best, - - - 74 Ditto to New York, 75 American vessels best, 75 Page Those who succeed best in America, - - 76 Colleges, &c. in Pen- sylvania, - - 77 Constitution, - - 78 State of Virginia, ^. 79 District of Columbia, 80 Kentucky and produo- tions, - - - 81 Trade of Louisville, - 8^ Indiana, - - - 83 Canal at Louisville, - 84 State of Ohio, - - 85 Cincinnati and other towns, - - 80 Towns of Kentucky, 87 Opportunities to get a free passage on the Ohio, . - - 87 North Carolina, - 88 Productions and consti- tution, - - 89 South Carolina, - 90 Charleston, - - 9 1 State of Georgia, - 92 Tennessee, - - 93 East and West Florida, 93 Louisiana & N. Orleans, 9^ Illinois, Missouri, and St. Louis, - - - 95 State of Mississippi, 95 Mississippi river, &c. &c. 96 ^Michigan territory and concluding advice, 9n