Page from a Ship's Log

In his log from the expedition, Lt. Micajah G. L. Claiborne, remarked about navigation observations during the U.S. Exploring Expedition:

“. . . Meteorological observations in every shape + form. Transit observations of Star Passing the meridian for determining the rates of Chros [chronometers]. Observations of moon culminating stars, for the purpose of deducing Longitude, all these and more were daily being taken or made, the most important by Capt. Wilkes in person + the remainder under his direction + superintendence.”