Sketches of Minnesota: The New England of the West

Wonderful firsthand account of travels across the Minnesota Territory in the mid-19th century.

“The following Sketches of Minnesota are submitted by the author to the public eye, with the confident expectation that they will afford useful and reliable information on the history, topography, climate, and the agricultural and commercial resources of a Territory which is destined to become one of the most flourishing states in the Union.” – Preface.

With a title implying the aforementioned prosperity will mimic that of New England in the preceding decades, this volume encouraged emigration to the Minnesota Territory in the mid-19th century. It was written by E.S. Seymour and published in New York in 1850 by Harper & Brothers. As described by the Library of Congress,

“Beginning with a historical and geographical overview, this traveler’s account of the newly formed Minnesota Territory provides practical information for readers interested in relocating to the region. Seymour describes “everything” in Minnesota as “in a crude state, or process of formation,” but compares its scenery, pine forests, and extensive waterpower to New England. He also notes that both regions are at a northern latitude and have a “healthy climate” conducive to habits of “industry and enterprise.”

Sketches of Minnesota has detailed if generally unfavorable things to say about Native American religious practices and intertribal relations. It also discusses life at various missionary and trading stations, and Seymour’s exploration of both Fountain and Carver’s Caves, and gives detailed information about waterways, quality of water, steamboats, and lodging for travelers. A foldout map is included.”