Western Times in Viroqua, Wisconsin

Geographical Memoir on North American Northward Reach

This excerpt argues that the northern plains between 43 30 and 54 latitude, from Lakes Superior to the Pacific, can support dense settlement with crops like potatoes oats rye and barley as far north as 54 and wheat and cider as far as 52. It highlights milder winters in prairie regions, potential fur and fish resources, a vast Saskatchewan plain, and a future railroad linking Lake Superior to Puget Sound. It compares northern Europe climates and notes Minnesota’s territorial development, urging settlement and infrastructure as key to national growth.