----------------------------Original message---------------------------- I'm currently working on a project on 19th century explorations of the American West, and someone on the Am-West list suggested that this list might be helpful. One of the things I'm interested in is possible connections (direct or indirect) of Alexander Dallas Bache of the Coast Survey and the development of the geological and geographical surveys that eventually led to the founding of the USGS. Any ideas would be welcome. James Cassidy History Department Saint Anselm College [log in to unmask]