- May 24th [of 1853]. After hard rowing in the hot sun we passed the north end of Vashon’s Island, and reached a place known as New York, on Elliott Bay13, and encamped on a hot sandbar. There is only one house at this point. The scenery of the Sound is not conspicuously marred by civilization, as this is the first house we have seen since we left Steilacoom.
- We concocted a chowder this evening. Potatoes, clams, fish and onions formed the ingredients, and we all had good appetite. The great quantity and variety of sea fruit to be found in the Sound and the facility with which they are obtained is a feature of the country which is very attractive. It must be especially so to the poor man, as he need never want for food. As one of the ledgers at this place expressed it,“When the tide is out the table is spread."14
- I was introduced to a Mr. Terry, the proprietor of this claim, which is beautifully situated and will probably develop into a town. Seattle is further up the [Elliott] bay and is more protected. On the whole this is a magnificent sheet of water.