This journal of George Washington was begun when he was one month over 16 years of age. It is his own daily record of observations during his first remunerated employment.

George Washington's 'Journal of my journey over the mountains while surveying for Lord Thomas Fairfax, baron of Cameron' provides a firsthand account of Washington's experience as a young surveyor in the 18th century. Written in a factual and detailed style, the book chronicles his adventures through the untamed wilderness, offering valuable insights into the geography and challenges of the time. Washington's observations on the land and its Native American inhabitants add depth to the narrative, showcasing his curiosity and keen eye for detail. His writing reflects the literary context of early American exploration narratives, emphasizing both discovery and survival in the wilderness. The book serves as a primary source for historians studying Washington's early life and the colonial frontier. George Washington's background as a surveyor and landowner lends credibility to his account, shedding light on his formative years before becoming a Founding Father. Readers interested in American history, exploration, and Washington's personal life will find this book a valuable resource and an engaging read.

PREFACE. THE Author of this very practical treatise on Scotch Loch - Fishing desires clearly that it may be of use to all who had it. He does not pretend to have written anything new, but to have attempted to put what he has to say in as readable a form as possible. Everything in the way of the history and habits of fish has been studiously avoided, and technicalities have been used as sparingly as possible. The writing of this book has afforded him pleasure in his leisure moments, and that pleasure would be much increased if he knew that the perusal of it would create any bond of sympathy between himself and the angling community in general. This section is interleaved with blank shects for the readers notes. The Author need hardly say that any suggestions addressed to the case of the publishers, will meet with consideration in a future edition. We do not pretend to write or enlarge upon a new subject. Much has been said and written-and well said and written too on the art of fishing but loch-fishing has been rather looked upon as a second-rate performance, and to dispel this idea is one of the objects for which this present treatise has been written. Far be it from us to say anything against fishing, lawfully practised in any form but many pent up in our large towns will bear us out when me say that, on the whole, a days loch-fishing is the most convenient. One great matter is, that the loch-fisher is depend- ent on nothing but enough wind to curl the water, -and on a large loch it is very seldom that a dead calm prevails all day, -and can make his arrangements for a day, weeks beforehand whereas the stream- fisher is dependent for a good take on the state of the water and however pleasant and easy it may be for one living near the banks of a good trout stream or river, it is quite another matter to arrange for a days river-fishing, if one is looking forward to a holiday at a date some weeks ahead. Providence may favour the expectant angler with a good day, and the water in order but experience has taught most of us that the good days are in the minority, and that, as is the case with our rapid running streams, -such as many of our northern streams are, -the water is either too large or too small, unless, as previously remarked, you live near at hand, and can catch it at its best. A common belief in regard to loch-fishing is, that the tyro and the experienced angler have nearly the same chance in fishing, -the one from the stern and the other from the bow of the same boat. Of all the absurd beliefs as to loch-fishing, this is one of the most absurd. Try it. Give the tyro either end of the boat he likes give him a cast of ally flies he may fancy, or even a cast similar to those which a crack may be using and if he catches one for every three the other has, he may consider himself very lucky. Of course there are lochs where the fish are not abundant, and a beginner may come across as many as an older fisher but we speak of lochs where there are fish to be caught, and where each has a fair chance. Again, it is said that the boatman has as much to do with catching trout in a loch as the angler. Well, we dont deny that. In an untried loch it is necessary to have the guidance of a good boatman but the same argument holds good as to stream-fishing...

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1892 edition. Excerpt: ... PREFACE. Washington's Journal here given to the public, if we except his version of the " Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation," is the earliest literary effort of this, the most admirable character in all history. The editor has long been engaged in collecting accurate copies of all the obtainable writings of this great man. Wherever it has been found practicable to examine and critically compare even his generally accepted writings with the originals, it has been, or will be done to secure a copy of exact and verified conformity, in every particular, with the text as it left the hand of the writer. It is a well-known fact that editors have taken great liberties with Washington's writings, not for the purpose of falsifying history, or aspersing his character, but from a variety of reasons, often to suppress caustic expressions, or to substitute a more euphonious word to give to his sentences a fine, rhetorical finish. Such editorial dressing, even where the motive is well intended, is vicious in principle and liable to abuse; and, in the case of Washington's writings, is neither justifiable nor desirable. The time has come when the people want to know intimately and without glamour or false coloring, the father of his country as he actually lived and labored, and to possess his writings, just as he left them, on every subject which engaged his attention. It is the purpose of the editor to prepare a complete collection of all the writings of George Washington, from his youth to the close of his eventful life, with that literal exactness as to text which can only be assured by the careful efforts of an experienced copyist and expert proof reader having access to and comparing in every possible case the copies...

In 'The Journals of George Washington,' readers are given an intimate look into the mind and experiences of one of America's founding fathers. Through detailed accounts of his daily life, military campaigns, and political endeavors, Washington showcases his leadership skills and unwavering commitment to the nation's success. Written in a clear and concise style, this book provides a valuable insight into the literary context of 18th-century America and the struggles faced by early American leaders. Washington's journals also shed light on his personal thoughts and emotions, making this work a valuable historical document. The detailed descriptions of battles, meetings, and personal reflections make this book a compelling read for history buffs and scholars alike. George Washington's experiences as a military leader, statesman, and public figure undoubtedly influenced the writing of his journals. His unparalleled dedication to the country and desire to document his experiences for future generations highlight his commitment to preserving American history. Readers interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Washington's life and contributions to the United States will find 'The Journals of George Washington' to be a captivating and enlightening read.