TREASURY DEPARTMENT UNITED STATES COAST AND GEODETIC SURVEY HENRY S. PRITCHETT SUPERINTENDENT. Bulletin No. 38. ALASKA ITYDROGRAPHIC NOTES, SAILING DIRECTIONS, AND CHARTS OF SURVEYS RELATING TO THE VICINITY OF ^'RINCE WILLIAM SOUND, COOK INLET, KADIAK ISLAND, AND ROUTE FROM UNALASKA TO CIIIGNIK, THROUGH UNIMAK PASS AND INSIDE THE ISLANDS. 1897. By Lieut. Commander J. F. MOSER, U. S. N.. Commanding Albatross. PUBLISHED through THE COURTESY OF THE PISH COMMISSION. Bulletins are issued by the Survey from time to time as material for tliem accumulates. They are intended to give early announcement of work ac THROf(iH THK COUKTF.SV OF THR 1-ISIl COMMISSION. Bullotins are issnod by the Siivvey from timo to time a,s jiiaterial for them accumulates. They are intended to give early announcement of work accomplished or information of importance obtained, and will, in many c}»ses, anticipate the nsnal means of publication afforded by the Annual Reports. Those already published, Nos. 1 to 2.5, inclusive, in (juarto form, constitute Vol. I; Nos. 26 to 3."). inclusive, in octavo, constitute Vol. II; Vol. Ill begins with No. ;!(i. WASHINGTON GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 18'.*',l. Prefatory note. — The following information contains hyilro^fapliic notes, sailing directions, and charts of surveys made by Lieut. Commaiuler J. F. Moser, U. S. N., cominanding the U. S. Fish Commission steamer Albatross, during a cruise in Ahuskan waters in 1.S97. In this locality the charts are far from conect. and these notes are a very valuable a'_' CORDOVA BAY. Till' iHH-tht'rn shore of Cordova Bay must be kept best ou board, to avoid a great shoal that makes off Hiucliiubrook and Hawkins islands well across tlie ])ay. It is said that wlicn the small islet in the passage between these islands shows in tlie middle of the open- ing the vessel has reached the point of the most northern extension of the shoal. When abreast of Sheep (or Jackson) Bay, haul off so as to arrive off Hanks Island in mid-channel. Hanks Island is a small, low, rocky islet, with a scant growth of trees Ij'ing close to the northwest shore and midway between Sheep and Simpson bays. The A Ibatross in passing in kept Hanks Island close aboard to avoid a shoal on which a cannery ship grounded, but in making the survey the shoal was found, and it is i^robable that we passed very close to it, if not over it. From Hanks Island to the cannery the survey will be the best guide. From mid-channel, off Hanks Island, a course NE. i E. will carry to the Narrows. Keej) in nud-cbannel through tlie Narrows and round Hawkins Point close-to, after which follow the channel between Knot Point and Observation Island. Keep the starboard shore aboard until halfway between Knot Point and Grass Island, when haul sharp across the passage on a course E. J S. On this course the vessel will head for the highest peak in the back mountain masses, and on range, or nearly on range, with it will be a small sandy beach at the water line. This ccjurse will carry across the narrowest part of the bar in 3 fathoms at mean low water. After passing the bar, which will l)e indicated by the lead, if bound for Orca, haul to the northward for the cannery and anchor off the building in from () to S fathoms; if bound for Odial\, haul to the southward and anchor to the northward of Spike Island in from G to S fathoms. There, is a channel around the northern, end of Observation Island for the use of which a local knowledge is necessary, but the following may be useful at low water : Give Hawkins Point a fair berth, 2 cables, and steer for a conspicuous dead tree on the eastern shore f mile north of the cannery. This will carry between South Kock and North Rock, both of which are uncovered at low water, the former 1 cable and the latter C cables off the northern shore of Observation Island. The channel I would recommend is the Odiak Channel ; it appears to carry more water, and so far as known there are no rocks in the way. In leaving Orca or Odiak, when up with the small sand beach previously referred to, haul sharp across for a point midway between Knot Point and Grass Island, or for the highest hill on the opposite (western) sliore. V2:\ The Albatross, in leaving Prince William Sound, jiassed between Seal Rocks and Cape Hindi inbrook, about 3 miles from the latter, and obtained a sounding off the cape of 10 fathoms. The waters were discolored and uninviting, and even after passing the cape many swirls were encountered; in general, tlie locality had an uninviting appearance. COOK INLET. Kussilof. — The Alhatruss passed up Cook Inlet, keeping from i to (j miles off the eastern sliore. It is very difficult to locale one's position there, as there are no landmarks that can be recognized by a stranger, and the current is so strong that the logged distance is deceptive. The break in the line of bluffs, as mentioned in H. O. Supplement No. 2, page 17, occurs some distance below Kussilof. About 2 miles off the eastern shove, and about 6 miles below Kussilof, there are two large rocks, known as the Sisters, which form the best mark for this place. It is recommended to give these rocks a berth of 2 miles. If bound up the inlet Kussilof should be given a berth of at least miles to clear the great shoal that makes oft' at that point. The shoal extends out in a NW. by W. direction. To anchor off the cannery bring the company's office, the first white building north of the cannery, to bear ENE. 'l E. and stand in for it, keeping it on this bearing. Keep the lead going, and anchor as soon as a depth is found suitable for the draft of the vessel, allowing 30 feet for the range of spring tides. A narrow shallow channel for the cannery steamers and launches, marked during the season the cannery is operated by a barrel beacon and stakes, winds through the inner shoals from the southern side and around the cape into the river. The mouth of the channel is dry at low water. FKOM UNALASKATO CIIICiMK, TIIKOUGII UNIMAK PASS AND INSIDE THE ISLANDS. UNALA8KA TO CAPE I'ANKOF. The Coast Survey Cliart (No. 0007) of Uualaska Bay is tlie best guide to pass out from the anchorage at Iliuliuk or Dutch hai'burs. T_>4 Upon arrivin.u: at a position 1 mile WNW. }W. fnun Kalekhta Head (Cape Kalekhta), a course of NNE. i E. carries 1 mile clear of Flat Top Point, whicli from this positiaus and ridges by intervening valleys. On the seaward face it is bluif, with a foot of detritus partly covered during the summer with grass and sloping toward the water. From this hill there 126 extends a low belt of land to the northward, at the end of which is the Promontory, which forms the western entrance to Unimak Baj\ The Promontory on the northern and soixthern sides sloj^es away gradually, joining the features uf tlio lower land on either side, while the crest (grass-covered in summer), though appearing as a detached mass, is really joined to the central mountain system by a lower connecting ridge. The seaward face terminates in a vertical cliff having a low rocky foot with outlying ledges. The piiblished charts can not be followed in navigating these waters. They consist only of disconnected sketches, a survey never having been made of the locality, and must only be considered as a general guide. Besides, the currents are strong and difficult to predict even within large limits, and safety depends upon constant ^'igilance.* From a position at which Cape Pankof bears NE. i E. distant 30 miles, the headland forming the outer end of the cape appears as an island. Ptatok Peninsula Cape Pankof. NE. HE. (mag)3a From the same position the volcana Shishaldin is seen, cone-shaped, regular in out- line, with faint wreaths of smoke and vapor drifting from its blackened tip. It is for the most part snowclad, except where the rocky cliffs and projections tifford no lodgment. Isanotski is seen to the right, very rugged, and having a broken or castellated double peak. On account of its rugged character less snow finds lodgment on this peak, but on the - southwest side there is an apparently deex) rift filled with snow. The great, l>are, rocky oiit- crops impress one with their massiveness. The double and broken summit is bare and looks as though composed of great vertical rock masses. Skichaldin Vol. IsanoisKi Peahs. After roimding Cape Khituk (Seal Cape), give the points of laud on the southeast shore of Unimak Island a berth of several miles and pass Cape Pankof at a distance of 2 miles. The waters around the point of tlie cape seem to be clear of dangers. CAPE PANKOF TO I>EER ISLAND PASSAGE. With Cape Pankof bearing N W., distant 2 miles, laj' a coiirse of N. by E. ^ E. and keep it foi- fiiurteeu miles, which should carry 2 miles NW. from Umga Island, whence a course of NNE. i E. IG miles should carry well 2>ast Fox Island and into the passage between Deer Island and the mainland. As some current will jjrobably be encountered, these courses and distances must not be blindly followed. The chart gives Umga Island relatively too far to the northwest, for if it were known that Cape Pankof and Umga Island were both bold, a single course would carry from Cape Pankof to the passage, leaving Umga I.sland to the southward. Do not go to the southward of Umga Island, where foul ground is reported. Pass Fox Island about 1 mile distant, and give Thin Point a wide berth, as it is shoal, with many detached rocks lying some distance offshore. On the coiirse NNE. J E. from Umga Island to the passage, and 5 miles from the former, in looking to the southwest Cape Pankof appears like a headless sphynx having a general reddi.sh color, which in summer has a greenish tinge. Umga Island at the same time is seen ^ point open from the cape, and in *8eo romarks on Chart 8.~>ao, (Kigo 121. 1-27 clear -weather stands prominently ayaiiist tlie sky line. It is a small ronndeil island, prob- ably 150 feet liigli and J mile in diameter, and rises abruptly in sloping lilulls on nearly all sides. In summer the top and the gentler slopes are grass-covered, and the rocky outcrops are dark brownish. From tlu' pnsitinn n'fi'i-n-KER ISL.VXD PASSAGE TO ILIASIK STKAIT. Bold Cape, on the northern side of Deer Island Passage, is seen as a blunt lull with a bare red tnp ;ind sides gently sloping to the east and west, and the seaward face broken off into steep rocky bluffs of a grayish color, except at the eastern end, whei-e it is a bride red. Immodiately eastof the cape is a second hill, marked by a yellow slide, which extends down tlu! face of its grassy slope. A number of detached rocks lie close inshore around the cape. Grey. Bold Cape. Vf-Red:-^ Yellow Sfide. The northeast end of Deer Island is high, and grass-covered to the top. North Cape may be recognized by a steei), high, triangular cliff' in tlio othorwise slo])ing hillsides. North Cape. 128 Tho Albatross kept in mid-channel through the passage, and with Bold Cape abeam changed course to NE. by E. J E., ran 17 miles, and fetched in Iliasik Strait. With Bold Cape bearing W. by S. and North Cape SW. f S. the northern end of Deer Island was noticed tangent to Amagat Island, bearing SW. ^ W. Directly over Amagat Island and above the clouds rose the riigged peak of Isanotski, with Dome close to it and the tapering cone of Shishaldin abutting on Dome, the three peaks nested together with Isanotski to the southward and Shishaldin to the northward. /sanofskt Dome Shishaldin Deer Id tangent to Amagat. SWVaW. (mag.) The route is through Iliasik Strait, between the Outer and Inner Iliasik islands. There is no practical channel for vessels between the inner island and the mainland ; there is a narrow passage for small vessels, but it is much obstructed and a local knowledge is neces- sary for its use. Close under the nortliern shore of this passage is a high lone rock. The greater part of the Outer Iliasik is a mass of irregular hills, terminating on the southern end in a long low point. ^ From off Bold Cape the Inner Iliasik has the appearance of two separate islands, but upon nearer approach it is seen that the island has a high hill at either end connected by a low neck of land, the southern one taking ujj half the length of the island and the iipper or northern hill from the southward resembling a gigantic saddle covered ■with grass. The western sides of the two hills are high irregular bluffs. Inner Iliasili Id. from Wd. Belkofski Cape forms the eastern point of entrance to the bay of the same name. It is recognized by its high hill, the upper i)art bare and gray-colored, the lower slopes grassy, with a double slideway in nearly parallel lines on the southern face extending nearly to the water. Immediately east from the cape a low bluff extends to a bend in the shore line, on which is situated the village of Bellcofski. The anchorage is off the village in 10 to 12 fath- oms, with the high rock, prexaously referred to as standing clo.se to the northern shore in the passage between the Inner Iliasik and the mainland, on range with Moss Cape. There is a long sand and bowlder beach in front of the village, on which a landing maj^ be made in moderate weather. Cape BelHofsta. BelhofsHi Village. Upon approaching the passage from the westward on the course NE. by E. f E., a reef of rocks is seen to extend from the Inner Iliasik for quite a distance into the channel. Upon nearer approach these rocks are seen to make off from the southern point of the island ; in fact, the shores of both islands in the vicinity of the straits, except the eastern side of the inner island, appear foul, but there do not seem to be any dangers in mid-chan- nel. The waters in the passage were carefully observed, but no indications of kelp or shoal water were observed except alongshore. On approaching tho passage soundings in from 8 to 12 fathoms were obtained — there may be less — on which it is thought an anchorage (;ould be made in case of fog. The course of NE. by E. f E. carrieil the AUmtrnss from Deer Island Passage through the Iliasik Strait. It was noticed that on tliis course a high detached pinnacle rock lying off the southern end of Dol,!,^oi Island was on range with a nipple on the upi>er slope of Poperechnoi Island. Strangers should ui)On approaching the strait open it wide before attempting the passage, and then stand through in mid-channel. fiiner JliasiH Jd. Dolgoi Id. IliasiH Strait. Poperechnoi Id. Point ot view, abreast Cape BelKofsKi. looking N E.f.S.(mag.) ILIASIK STRAIT TO UNGA STRAIT. The route is between Inner Iliasik and (loloi islands, and then around the northern points of Goloi, Dolgoi, Ukolnoi, Wossnessenski, and outlying islets, and Unga Island, or between the islands and the peninsvila. After passing through the Iliasik Strait in mid-channel, and clearing this well, haul up NNW. ]- W. No special courses can be given through these passages, as they must be frequently changed to suit the conditions. I can simply say, follow the route indicated and keep in mid-channel. Goloi Island from the westward appears as a moderately high single ridge with steep sides, the greater part in bluffs of gray or brown-gray color. At the northwest point a long, low, flat sand and shingle point makes into the channel. On the inner end of this spit is a grassy knoll open from the base of the ridge. Western face Goloi Id. A sand and shingle spit makes otf toward the channel from Moss Cape, and this, with the spit off Goloi Island, when seen from certain positions, seems to extend a long distance into the channel ; but upon nearer approach it is found that these spits are more marked to the eye on account of the surrounding higher land, and that a wide channel carries safely through. The Albatross, after passing Goloi Island, kept N. \ W., which carried clear of Bluff Cax)e, the northwest point of Dolgoi I.^land. On this course the uj^per part of Inner Iliasik Island was dii-ectly astern. Bluff Cape, bearing N. by E., appears as a series of low, dark-brownish, rocky bluffs, back of which the land rises gradually in a grassy slope to tlie upper hills of the island. S.>iE.(mag.) Bluff Cape. A sand spit was noticed to make out from Dolgoi Island toward Goloi Island. Judging from our run to the eastward, I believe the following directions will hold good for a vessel using this passage and bound to the westwai'd, though we did not have an oppor- tunity to try it. From a point J mile off Bhiff Cape, steer for the highest x)art of the upper half of the Inner Iliasik, and after rounding the spit on Goloi Island steer for the center of the Outer Iliasik until the Iliasik Strait is wide open, then pass through in mid-channel. 130 Bear Cape is comparatively low, with the extreme i^oint broken into hollows and caves, the eastern part presenting low cliffs of basalt of marked columnar structure, appearing like a vast stockade with the top covered with grass. West [maif.) Bear Cape The three peaks of Pavlof come into view before passing through Iliasik Strait, and in the vicinity of Bear Cape the rugged castellated Aghileen Pinnacles come in sight. From a point J mile off Bluff Cape, a course NE. J N., 10.3 miles, carried the Albatross to a beam position off the northern extremity of Ukolnoi Island, distant 1.(5 miles. Changed course here to NE. by E., and after running 15.4 miles arrived at a jjoint where Seal Cai)e was abeam, distant about 3 miles; then changed course to NE. ^ E. and ran 17.9 miles to a point off Gull Island at the entrance to Coal Harbor, Unga Island. Ukolnoi Island is generally grass-covered, but few places showing bare rock. The northernmost part seems to be the highest, and culminates in a ragged-topped peak. From the eastern end a series of rocky projections seem to extend to Wossnessenski Island. Near the northern end a large ledge of rocks well above water was noticed about i mile off the shore. v SE'UZ.imag.) UKolnoi Island. SW.(mag.) Wossnessenski Island, as near as could bo judged, has a central broken ridge with the highest features east of the center, terminating at the eastern extremity in high, steep bluft's. Two large rock masses lie well oft" the eastern point. SE.'/i£(mag.) WossnessensKi Island. S.^iE.(mag) The chart is so much in error along this course, particularly along the peninsula, that it is almost impossible to recognize any of the shore features by it. Seal Cape is about 2 miles to the eastward of the point forming the entrance to Coal Bay (peninsula side) and seems to lie nearer the cliannel than the latter. An outlying rock lies about 1 mile to the eastward of Seal Cape. Coal Bay Point is recognized by the small rocky islet lying off its extremity. It is said that a rock known as Moses Eock lies some distance off this shore, and it may be the rock referred to as being near Seal Cape. In the absence of better information, however, I would recommend that vessels in passing give the locality a berth of about 2 miles. Jude Island, south of the course, ap2)ears low and conical. Bay Point, Unga Island, is a prominent landmark, and seems steep with a precipitous sea face. Tlie top is flat, covered with grass, the bare rock showing dark brown. SEImag.) Bay Point, Unga Island. From Pavlof Bay to Point Swedania, along the peninsula, including Coal Bay, Otter Bay, Beaver Bay, and Portage Bay, the charts seem very much mixed, and it would be out l.-il of place to attempt a criticism based upon obsci-vation simply in passiug. ily impression is, however, that the old Coast Survey chart 80G, along this part, gives a fairer idea of the shore features of this locality than 8800. Beaver Bay seems to make in as shown on 806, and the entrance to Otter Bay did not open until just before Point Aliaksiu shut it in. What I judge to be Point Aliaksin is the seaward extension of a moderately high ridge lying between Portage Bay and Beaver Bay. From the westward it is not readily distin- guished from the point of entj-ance to Beaver Bay, but after passing, on a bearing NW. liy W. -\ W., it comes out clear and appears as a moderately steep point with an outlying reef partly above water to the SW., and a bright red-colored bluff a few hundred yards to the eastward. NlV.xW.'/sK(may.) Cape Aliahsin. The shores on each side of Uuga Strait are comparatively low, rising to the higher hills a short distance back. Gull Island, off the entrance to Ct)al Harbor, Unga Island, is a small irregular mass of reddish rock. Hat on top, and about flO feet high. It is easily distinguished and is a good landnuirk. Coal Harbor, Zacharefskaia Bay. — A good anchorage may be made in this iiarbur, but care should be i)l).served in entering, as the chart, C. S. No. 8891, does not show a danger near the entrance. The extent of the shoal making off the western point of entrance toward Giill Island is not shown on chart 8891. From Gull Island at low water, rocks out of water were observed extending out (from Uuga Lsland) to a bearing SE. ^ S. It is on these rocks that the schooner Webster, it is said, was lost in 1891. In entering, pass ^ mile to the east- ward of Gull Island and steer for Round Island ; or keep in mid-channel, slightly favoring the eastern shore. Weedy Shoal need not be feared, as it shows plainly and lies just outside the headlands. The Albatross made a night anchorage here off the lower end of Weedy Shoal. UNGA STKAIT TO KAUIAK. The route lies north of Unga and Popof islands, between High Island and Korovin Island, and through Gorman Strait to Kiii^reanof Point; thence along the southern side of the peniiisula, and between Sutwik Island and the Semidi Islands. From a point 1 mile off Gull Island, the Alba.ross steered E. J N., I '.) miles, which carried into Gorman Strait.' High Island is the key to Gorman Strait in thick weather. It is small, high at the northern end, and at a distance from the westward resembles a sleeping lion. It is about 200 feet high, with steep red cliffs as seen from the westward, and a flattened grass-covered toj). From the eastward the red cliffs are not seen, but to the northward appear steep grassy bluffs with grassy slopes to the southward. Gorman Strait. ^^TJiiilM^^ ^i^^ ENE.%E.(mag.) Korovin Id. E.%N.(may.) Andronica Id. E.ysN.(mag.) High Id. E. (mag.) Popof Id. Henderson Island is a small, low, i-ocky islet lying close \i7ider the western shore of Korovin Island, and in approaching from the westward it is difficult to separate it from Korovin Island until close-to. The chart position does not seem to be correct; I think it lies 132 more to the northward. Approaching from the westward it opens out on a bearing N. ^ E. comes tangent again on NW. J N., and closes out altogether on NW. by "W. i W." House. Henderson Id. N.%E(mag.) Tangent. Korovin Id. Korovin Island on the southern end has a rugged head, which, at a distance, when approaching from tlie eastward or westward, appears to be a separate island, but on nearer approach it is seen to be connected by a moderately low grassy neck. £NE.%E.(mag.) Korovin Island. NNW.(mag.) Cape Devine. Andronica Island appears rugged, with grass-covered valleys. In approaching from the eastward, off the northern end, a beehive-shai^ed rock, apparently 150 feet high, with grass-covered top, projects slightly from the shore. This rock changes its appearance as the straits are approached, and when abeam it is seen as a split rock. To the westward a rugged cliff has on its projecting foot a marked yellow slojje. The extreme northwest end has a bold, rugged face, witlioiit verdure. Gorman Strait seems to be free of all dangers. There are a few scattered rocks along the shore, and extending a short distance beyond the points ; but until the locality has been surveyed the iisual mid-channel course followed by vessels is recommended. From the middle of Gorman Strait, High Island is seen tangent to the northern extremity of Popof Island. Popof Island. S.xE.(Tnag.) Pirate Cove. Kupreanof Point is the southeast extremity of an irregular peninsula making off from the mainland and having Ivanof Bay on the east and Stepovak Bay on the west. The point is high and bold, the extreme end appearing very rugged. It is an imp(jrtant landmark. N'4Wfmag.) Kupreanof Point. N.xE.%E.(mag.} Castle Bock in clear weatlior is soen to tlie southeast after clearing Aiulronica Island. It lies nil the northern end of Big Koniushi Island, an<)iiit seen making from the western .shore is flat and low, covered Avith grass and alder clumps, with low dark bluff's on the northern and western shores. It slopes back gently to a high hill with steep and rugged sides, the end of a short uneven ridge. This a z < it: < < > < m Z < D uT < _J > UJ > 140 point seems to be the true westeru entrance point to the bay. detaclied from the shore. It has two large rocks slightly S E-XE. (mag.) Low Point. fVest Entrance to l/i/anii/f Bay. On rounding thi.s point the western bay fully ojjens, and near the head of it, on the western side, is seen what appears to be a long, low, iiudulating point, which upon nearer approach is made out as the cluster of rocky islets lying off the native village of Uganuk. I find that I failed to describe what we called "West Point on the reconnoissance, but it is not prominent. I recall, in coming out of the bay, we attempted to cut in points ahead, and recognized West Point from the small detached rock, but when it was projected against the land, neither the i^oint nor the rock could be recognized. East Point, on our reconnoissance, is the middle point separating East and West Uganuk bays, and is the northwest extremity of a long, high, level ridge with stfeep sides, as seen from West Uganuk Bay. From the top of the ridge to the point the slope is gentle and even, and off the point, which is low, are several large rocks, the larger one having a flat top with bluff sides. The point is grassy, with alder clumps. The shore extending from the iJoint southward has low, clayey bluffs. NNE.%E.(mag.) Middle Point. Ugnnuh Bay. Off Rock Point, which forms the southern point of entrance to Northeast Arm, are sev- eral rocks, and from this point to East Arm is a long line of high bluffs, which are the lower extensions of the high mountain masses to the eastward. Village Islands, lying off the old native village of Uganuk, on the western side of the bay, are all high and rocky and on the channel side seem bold-to. Village Peninsula is a rocky head and an island at high water. There is probably a good anchorage for moderate- sized vessels in the harbor formed by the islands and-the peninsula. No specific examination was made of these waters, but at the village a white man said that it was clear of dangers. The village is a collection of 12 or 15 barabaras, with a winter population of 30 or 40 Aleuts. In summer these natives inhabit the village on the right bank of the river emptying into the head of the East Arm. Uganuk Spit forms the northern point of entrance to East Arm. In approaching it from the northwest at a distance it appears like a long, low spit, projecting into West Uganuk Bay, with the cannery buildings on the outer point. Upon nearer approach it is found to be a wide shingle beach making out from the bluffs, the height of the latter giving it a spit- like appearance. At the base of the bluffs is a small lagoon. UyanuK Spit. S£.(naffj 141 The cannery anchorage is off the outk't to the lagoou in 14 to IG fathoms, soft bottom. In this position the Noisy Ishinds, at the entrance to tlie main bay, are seen across tlic jjoint of the spit. A better anchorage, in from 8 to 10 fathoms, may be found a mile fartlier up the arm off the saltery. (See survey.) About i mile beyond the saltery extensive tidal flats fill tlie head of the arm for a distance of about 3 miles to the mouth of the stream. The surrounding country is very mountainous, and it is said in winter the winds from the southAvest are very violent. There is also more rain and mist here than in the neighbor- ing localities, caused probably by the high mountain systems near by. There is a saltery, now closed, on the southern side of the East Arm over 1 mile within the entrance, and at the head of the arm is the mouth of the outlet to a lake which is 8 miles from the mouth. Tlie cannery on the spit receives its fish from the head of the arm. South Arm is the extension of West Uganuk Bay to the southward, and is about 4 miles long by j mile wide, with a dog-salmon stream at the head. No specific examination was made of this arm except to traverse it in going to and from the salmon stream. The only danger noticed was a ledge uncovered at low water lying about 150 yards off the eastern shore, i mile south of Mink Point, or between Mink Point and an arch rock which lies oft' the next jaoint within the entrance. The banks of the stream during summer are infested with bear, and in using the bear trails care must be taken, as the Aleuts frequently have well-concealed bear traps t)ver them. The Albatross upon leaving Uganuk made a few soundings, but as there are no located featui'es from which a position could be obtained they have not been sent in. A mid-chan- nel course was pursued and the depths ranged from 80 to a little under 100 fathoms, except in mid-channel on a course NW. ^ W. with the liighest part of Noisy Island abeam, distant aboiit 2 miles, where 31 fathoms depth was obtained. From a point 2 miles outside of Noisy Island, a course of N. i W. carried the Albatross into Cook Inlet. I would suggest in this connection that in addition to the reconnoisanco surveys made by the Albatross in 1897, the Coast Survey might find some additional information upon which to base corrections in Fish Commission Bulletin, Volume IX, of 1889. Alitak and Olga bays might be used, as the representation on chart 8500 is much in error. The Albatross went from Kodiak {St Paul) to Kaiiiik by what might be called the inside passage; that is, through Usinka Narrows, Wliale Passage, Karluk Strait, and Slie- likof Straits. I would, however, not recommend this passage to anyone not thoroughly acquainted. The temptation to use this passage is very great, as the route around Afognak Island or the southern end of Kadiak Island is long and not free from danger. I am unable to describe this roiite, as I passed through but once, and then my whole attention was upon the careful navigation of the vessel, but in general terms the run can be indicated : Upon leaving Kodiak by the northern channel, it is said that by keeping the water- front of the village oi^en of intervening points all dangers are avoided. The Albatross, after rounding St. George Rocks, stood up midway between Spruce Island and Kadiak Island. There seem to be no daiigers in mid-channel until the western end of TJsinka Narrows are reached; here the channel is very miich contracted, first by the small island which lies off' Usinka village, and next by the western point of Spruce Island and a point opposite on the Kadiak Island side. In passing through these narrows, sufficient speed only to keep good control of the vessel should be maintained. Keep a careful mid-channel course, leaving the small island to the northward, and after passing the western point of Sin'uce Island the most critical part of the run 'is encountered. The route now lies between a small islet in a bight on the Kadiak Iskind shore, and a shelving keiiJ reef whicli covers at high water. Favor the islet side, and when through haul off a little from the next point on the Kadiak Island side. In passing througli these naiTows several vessels have struck and have been damaged, and in two instances tlie ves- sels were in charge of men well acquainted in the locality; but it is said that if a careful mid-channel course is kcjjt Miero are no dangers, and that the vessels tliat struck were not in mid-channel. 142 Between Afognak Island and Kadiak Island on the eastern side is a large island known as Whale Island. Afognak Straits lie around the northern side, and Whale Passage ai-ouud the southern side. The former is much obstructed, the latter clear. The Albatross passed tlu'ough Whale Passage. After passing Usinka Narrows and rounding the next point on the Kadiak Island side, head for the southern end of Whale Island and enter the passage between the rock in mid- channel, which covers at high water and lies just within the entrance, and the southern point of the island. A grass-topjjed islet with a long reef and outlying rocks making to the eastward is now seen ahead, lying midway between Whale Island and Kadiak Island. Keep the Whale Island shore on board, piish boldly through, keeping midway between the islet and Whale Island, favoring the latter. Except at slack water this passage has a very unin- viting appearance; the current is strong and runs in swirls, so that a constant watch must bo kept to keej) the vessel pointed fair. I made particular inquiries in relation to this pas- sage and was told that, except the reefs and rocks making off from each end of the islet in the direction of the channel, there are no dangers. Do not change the coiirse until well past Whale Island, as a reef of sunken rocks lies off the next point on the Kadiak Island shore, and for the same reason do not approach the southeast point of Raspberry Island, as a sunken reef extends from it on the channel side. A careful mid-channel course should be kept until well past the southeast part of Raspberry Island, when all dangers seem to be passed. After clearing the straits'a course may be laid around Uijauuk Head. i 4 ORCA INLET and part or CORDOVA BAY PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND ALASKA U.S.F.C.S. ALBATROSS Lieutenant Commander J.RMoser,U.S.N,,CofTi'Tianding August. 1897 Astronomical Station, juiMiTUDt lAs-i^sa-w Longitude referred to Sitka Soundings in fathoms Scale, zdinio Authorities Astronomical observations by LieutenantL.M.6arrett,,U.S.N. Sextant tr1an()u1ation by UeutenanU H. E, Farm enter, U.S.N. and J.RM^6uinness, U.S.N. Hydrography by Lieutenant J.P.M-Guinne&s,U.S.N.and Ensign Y, StirlinQ,U.S.t4. »• Stations occupied or at which signals were trected Vanilb"" Enas of steel tape measured bass line = TViree fathomciirve ■ Lowwaterline. 1 " I «*./'? j^,S;Hoi»TH Bock Ij (^?'^ ^^^«/^ SIMPSON BAY O .'VORCR P.O. OOIAK VILLAGE ^ > »d l:!If pt. .-4 ka J5 01 la' K tB °i hi I Si c« III O eg tt sa ^^ 3 i hi n r'. i t 1 < ! E h( /#V vy'i5 Oail\^ay JOD t. Heages tne rrosecuior oi Election Law Violations. AS DEPUTY ATTORNEY GENERAL Three Grand Juries to be in Session at Once in New York County — Cases for Investigation. On Nov. 20 the extraordinary condition will be presented nf three Grand Juries sitting at once In New York County for the Investigation of crimes or alleged crimes. No such extreme measure was ever resorted to heretofore. Indeed, a like condition was legrally imoo.sslble under the old Constitution of the State. Two of these Orand Juries have been called espclallv for the Investieation of registration and election frauds, one by the District Attorney, the other by the Gov- ernor. The usu,v, a<^cordiug to Mr, Hedges, that the Gar- diner Special Grand Jiiry will hear cases of primary and election law violations, whlh' the Werner, or Governor's, inriuisl- tlon will be tlevoted to hunting bigger game than llv common colonizer or repeiiter, " Oil behalf of the Attorney General," s.ald Mr. Hedges yesterday. " I shall prose- cute the alleged violations of the primary election law In the Ninth and Thirty- fourth Districts, and other election law violations. These cases are to be coosli- erel by the special Grand Jury sworn in by Justice Kursman and called by Dl.^trict Attorney Gardiner. At present ther" are no indictments— only complaint.*— -but in the Investigation of these complaints I shall personally advise the Grand Jury." " The Gj» "■ -'9 was ;i sk^d Ilstrlet f^Jr thirty days prior to the elec-* tlon In o/der to vole. The evidence In this case, tils' Magistrate held, did not show that the de/endanl had complied with the law. and he wa.s compelled to hold him tor the Grand Jury, .'VLLRGBO KR.\rDS IX COVRT. JuiIkc TlioniiiH TiilkM to the ^^ ''>• of ' '"•^oi^^^W" T. to tl. tlon (o condemn a ted In .•elatlve .losing its uc- .» of the State to ,id through the forest preserve recalls me hurried midnight ses- sion of the old Forest Commission to get the grant to this railroad company through be- fore the present Cnslltutin went Into effect. The commission assembled shortly before midnight Dec. 31, 181H, one of the Commis- sioners being brought to Albany on a spe- cial engine. The new Constitution, which prohibits the leasing or giving away or selling of lands within the forest preserve. went Into effect In less than half an hour after the action was taken by the Forest Commission making the grant. Again, the decision of the Court of Ap- peals against the grant to the railroad company destroys tne plans of the New York and Ottawa Railroad Company, which was to operate over the proposed road through the forests. The plan was to have a direct route from .•\lbany and Boston through the Adlrondacks and across the St. Lawrence by the bridge being built by the Cornwall Bridge Company into Ontario. The road was to connect with that now owned by the company, stretching from Molru, N, Y„ to the St. Lawrence River, and with the Ottawa and New York Rail- way Company from Ottawa to Cornwall. I2U'/a miles In length. The New York and Ottawa had acquired the Northern New York Railroad from Molra to Topper's Lake. N. Y., ."jD'/j miles long, and connect- ing lines from Topper's l^ke to the St. I.«twreuce and Ottawa to Cornwall, which were built In l!«i7 and ISIS. The connections from Albany were to be b.v the Delaware ajid Hudson Railroad to North Creek, which is 3S miles north of Saratoga. From North Creek to Top- per's I^ake the proposed road was to run through wooded lands, and. though the dis- tance Is not great, the belt desired passes through sections of four counties. The grant of land to the rallro.ad com- pany was fought from the outset, an order of the court to show cause having been pro- cured the day after the Forest Commission made the grant. SALE OF THE CLOVER LEAF. Judge Tnft. a< CincinniUi. AVill .'Modify tlie Order To-day. CINCINNATI, No/, 10.— After hearing ar- guments for a modification of his order of sale for the Clover Leaf Railway system Judge Taft announced to-night that he would make an additional entry to-morrow. The appearance of Attorneys Ford and Neilan from New York gave rise to the ru- mor that a date was to be set for the sale of the property, but nothing of the kind was mentioned. The lawyers ask for a revision of the order of the court so as tO include additional claims amoi;g the liens. II is reported that reorganization may fol- low this action and that Receiver Samuel Hunt may become President. The receiver has been authorized to take up ?(i().lKJo more certificates, leaving only Ifl40,000 outstand- ing, Sontliern Railway Train Service. The Southern Railway Company an- nounces that, commencing Dec. 10. 1W>'.), It will operate through train service over its own line via Columbia, Peiry, Blackvllle, and Allendale, S, C, into and out of Sa- vannah, Ga, Also from that date that Its through car service will be operated In con- nection with the Plant system south of Sa- vannah, Ga,, and the Florida East Coast Railway, to and from points on the ea.st coast of Florida, with direct connections to and from Key West. Fla. : Havana, Cuba, and Nas.suu, N, P,, via Miami, Fla,. In connection with the Florida I'^ast Coast Steamship I^lne, and In connection with the Plant system south of Savannah to am' from other points in Florida, Includlnu points on the west coa,st. with direct con- nections to and from Key West and Ha- vana, via Tampa, Fla., In connection with the Plant Steamship Line. Erie to Shorten Line to Biiffnlo. SUSQUEH.\NNA, Penn., Nov, 10,— The Erie Kailwa.v Company is having another survey made of a line across Wayne County connecting with Its Jefferaon branch at Brandt, Susquehann.i County, which will shorten the distance between New York and Buffalo, A road built on the lines of the new survey will put Hone^dale, the county seat of Wayne County, on the main line of the Erie. Brie and New York Central. President E, B, Thomas of the Erie Rail- road Company returned yesterday from a trip over the system. He was asked as to reports that the Erie syste,"' '" to be allied with , jf the New ■<' 't'nl and Htiootr •\eMos »m6!H0\ KARLUK KADIAK ISLAND ALASKA U.S.F.C.S- ALBATROSS Lieutenant Commander J. F. Moser, U.S.N^Commanding August, 1897 Soundings In fathoms Scale, lo^so Authorities SexUnt triangulation by Lieutenants H.EParTncnU!r,U.S,N, and J.RM^ Guinness. U.S.N Hyarography by En&ign Y- Stirling, U.S.N. o-Stations occupied or at which signals were erecteO •a' and'b" - Ends of steel tape measureO base line. Three fathom curve, -Low wawr line. KADI A K UYAK ANCHORAGE UYAK BAY. KADIAK ISLAND ALASKA - aS.F.CS. ALBATROSS LauUnmlComndv J. r.Mot«r.U.&H.Cai«MMin} Au(i»l. lUT > UVAK ANCHORAGE -^ 03 -< yi y \ -^ UYAK BAY SkCTCM S**OwmA RiLJkTiVt ^sitiom or UYAK ANCHORAGE AIM) LARSENS BAV SHELIKOF STRAIT — ^^—I^M \ AuU««rlt>tft »«>tL II H im^»«lt.UMI 9f iMifii V iu«ai|.u»« > aaVborf amt\mm n i i r M mmW ^£±i_ ■ « »B>K.^»l \ ■I I 1 1- I I 5 'j ii > I ? J •f I I IP 5 I I 3 ». 5^5 a ET o I f 5 ll y^" 000 561" 5^^ ^