FOREWORD 



1 HE seemingly exhaustive histories on the life and works of 

 John James Audubon which have been written by his grand- 

 daughter, Maria R. Audubon and Prof Francis H. Herrick, 

 would indicate that but little more could be added, yet hardly a 

 year goes by but more hitherto unpublished letters and facts of 

 unusual interest are brought to light. 



This original Journal, kept by Audubon on that famous 

 journey down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers in 1820-21, 

 and his life in New Orleans and the surrounding country, 

 shows the indefatigable ardor and untiring effort to acquaint 

 himself with a new territory, and the discovery of new species 

 of birds for his forthcoming work. 



There probably never was a naturalist who, in his early 

 career, suffered more privations, and outlived so many discour- 

 aging years , finally to receive his great reward. 



Some years ago Col. John E. Thayer acquired this Journal 

 from a member of the Audubon family, and generously depos- 

 ited it with the Harvard Museum of Comparative ^oology, 

 where it would be safe for all time. All lovers of Auduboniana 

 will now be grateful for the opportunity to read this original 

 Journal, published verbatim et litteratim, of this great 

 painter-naturalist. 



RUTHVEN DEANE 

 Scarborough Beach 



Maine 



IX 



