Description
This photograph album illustrates the
sights and peoples experienced during a voyage of the United States Revenue Cutter
Thomas Corwin to Alaska and the Arctic Ocean during the early
1880s. There are many views of native (Inuit) villages and inhabitants in Alaska and coastal
Siberia, along with scenery and seascapes. All photographs are accompanied by detailed
manuscript captions by an unknown individual. Photographs depict Alaskan nature scenes and
harbors; Inuit people, dwellings and villages; and documentation of the fur trade in the
19th century.
Background
The USRC Thomas Corwin was a United States Revenue Cutter that
patrolled the Arctic Ocean and Bearing Sea, beginning in the late 1870s. In 1882, Michael A.
Healy (1839-1904) became commander of the Corwin, and he rose
to the position of captain in March of 1883. While in command of the Corwin, Healy patrolled the Arctic to the prevent illegal sale of guns and alcohol
to the Alaskan natives and to control illegal fur seal hunting. The captain was also
concerned for the well-being of the Alaskan natives, and ferried Siberian caribou to help
reestablish the natives' food supply, since many seals and walruses were killed by white
traders.
Extent
0.87 Linear Feet
(36 photographs in 1 album; album 18 x 27 cm (7 x 11 in) + 1
preservation microfilm copy reel)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from
or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The
responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining
necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department.
For more information, contact Reader Services.