Narrative of the United States Exploring Expedition During the Years 1838, 1839, 1840, 1841, 1842. Vol. I

1845

Hocken Library: Bliss KX W

Philadelphia: Lea & Blanchard

Before Cook charted the Pacific, many of the lands dotted in the vast ocean were unknown to European voyagers. He re-discovered, discovered, charted and named many, so much so that by the time of his death, the map of the Pacific was practically as it is now. Of course others followed, teasing out details. The United States Exploring Expedition (known affectionately as ‘U.S. Ex. Ex.’) was funded by US Congress to the tune of $300,000 and aside from promoting commerce (whaling) in the Pacific, its mission, led by Charles Wilkes, was to explore and survey, especially in those areas where there was insufficient information. This detailed map of the Paumotu Group was one result of the Expedition’s achievements, which set a benchmark for future scientific undertakings.