Astoria or Anecdotes of an Enterprise Beyond the Rocky Mountains

Set in 1836, this work highlights Washington Irving's role as the first American literary artist to support himself through writing. It chronicles his experiences in Canada and his interactions with the Northwest Fur Company, providing insights into the fur trade at the request of John Jacob Astor. This account not only showcases Irving's narrative style but also reflects the economic and cultural landscape of the time, marking his significant contributions to American literature.