The USS Saginaw, which made two cruises to Southeastern Alaska in the years 1868 and 1869, was known for a number of "firsts." She was the first United States warship built on the Pacific Coast and the first to be built on Mare Island Navy Yard at Vallejo, California. Author DeArmond tells the story of the Saginaw's voyage through Alaska waters using the maps, diaries, and letters left by the captain and his men.
