Reuben Gold Thwaites' 'Afloat on the Ohio' is an evocative travelogue that stands as a testament to the historical and cultural tapestry of the late 19th-century American Midwest. Thwaites recounts his intrepid thousand-mile journey in a skiff, from Redstone, Pennsylvania, to Cairo, Illinois, weaving together vivid descriptions with reflections on the region's past. The book exhibits a fine balance between lyrical narration and historical anecdote, situating itself within the regionalist literary movement that sought to capture the local color of America's diverse landscapes. The meticulous reproduction by DigiCat Publishing ensures that the integrity of Thwaites' original prose and the panoramic sweep of his journey are preserved, offering an immersive experience in historical pilgrimage through the heartland of America. Reuben Gold Thwaites, a noted American historian, librarian, and editor brought forth 'Afloat on the Ohio' as perhaps his most personal work. His extensive background in historical research and his dedication to the preservation and dissemination of historical narratives informed his detailed and introspective account. Thwaites' role as Secretary of the Wisconsin Historical Society and his numerous historical writings underscore the authoritative voice with which he imbues his pilgrimage, allowing the work to resonate not only as a captivating yarn but as a scholarly repository of regional heritage. Afloat on the Ohio' is recommended for readers who cherish the confluence of travel, history, and exquisite storytelling. Thwaites invites both the armchair historian and the avid adventurer to partake in his expedition down the Ohio River, offering insights that are historical as they are personal. The book's meticulous attention to the societal and physical landscapes of a bygone era renders it an invaluable addition to the collections of those who revere historical travel narratives and appreciate the intricate relationship between a nation's rivers and its historical currents.