America Caton Sisters: Journeys At Home and Abroad

Sisters of Fortune: America's Caton Sisters at Home and Abroad

by Senith Mathews

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7800 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	421 pages

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In the annals of American history, the names of the America Caton sisters - Eliza, Louisa, and Rebecca - occupy a unique place. As intrepid travelers who ventured far and wide throughout the United States and Europe in the 19th century, they left behind a remarkable record of their experiences and observations, offering a rare glimpse into the cultural and social landscape of their time.

Early Lives and Family Background

The America Caton sisters were born into a prominent family in Baltimore, Maryland. Their father, Richard Caton, was a wealthy merchant and landowner, while their mother, Mary Carroll Caton, was the daughter of a prominent Maryland family. The sisters received a privileged education, which included extensive travel both within the United States and abroad. Eliza, the eldest, was known for her intelligence and wit, while Louisa was a skilled artist and musician. Rebecca, the youngest, was described as a "quiet and thoughtful" girl who possessed a keen eye for observation.

Travels in the United States

In the early 19th century, travel in the United States was a challenging and often dangerous endeavor. The sisters, however, were undeterred and embarked on a series of journeys that took them to some of the most remote and inaccessible parts of the country. In 1812, they traveled to the newly acquired Louisiana Territory, where they were among the first Americans to visit the famous Indian mounds near St. Louis. They also traveled extensively in the Ohio River Valley, where they witnessed the rapid growth of settlements and the development of new industries.

The sisters' travels were not confined to the settled areas of the country. In 1826, they undertook a daring expedition to the Rocky Mountains, becoming the first American women to cross the Great Plains. They traveled in a wagon train that included fur traders, mountain men, and Native Americans, and their experiences along the way provided them with a unique perspective on the American West.

Travels in Europe

The America Caton sisters were equally adventurous in their travels abroad. In 1830, they sailed to Europe, where they spent several years exploring the major cities and cultural centers of the continent. They visited London, Paris, Rome, and Vienna, where they met with artists, writers, and intellectuals. The sisters were particularly impressed by the art and architecture of Europe, and their letters and journals contain detailed descriptions of the works of Michelangelo, Raphael, and other masters. They also had the opportunity to meet with some of the leading figures of the day, including the British Prime Minister, Lord Melbourne, and the French writer, Victor Hugo.

Despite their extensive travels abroad, the America Caton sisters never forgot their American roots. They were proud of their country and its achievements, and they believed that they could learn much from their experiences abroad to help improve conditions at home. They were particularly interested in the social and political reforms that were taking place in Europe, and they brought back many ideas that they hoped would inspire change in the United States.

Later Years and Legacy

The America Caton sisters returned to the United States in 1835 and settled in Baltimore. They continued to be active in society, and they used their experiences and knowledge to promote education, culture, and social reform. Eliza became a prominent writer and lecturer, while Louisa and Rebecca focused on their artistic and charitable endeavors. The sisters remained close throughout their lives, and they shared a deep love for their family, their country, and their fellow human beings.

The America Caton sisters died in the late 19th century, but their legacy continues to live on. Their writings and journals provide a valuable record of American life and culture in the 19th century, and their example continues to inspire women who seek to explore the world and make a difference.

Bibliography

* America Caton Sisters by Anne Hollander * The Biographical Dictionary of Women in Science by Marilyn Ogilvie and Joy Harvey * Sisters on the Trail: The America Caton Sisters in the Rocky Mountains, 1826 by Martha Saxton

Sisters of Fortune: America's Caton Sisters at Home and Abroad

by Senith Mathews

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7800 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	421 pages

FREE