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Show -16- The country embraced between the 100th meridian and the coast-range of mountains of the Pacific, between the 32d and 49th degree of latitude, may be pronounced to be a desert, with occasional valleys susceptible of cultivation. The Colorado desert, however, has been regarded as one of the most serious obstacles to the overland journey. Major Emory, in his report of reconnaissance of 1846 and 1847, represents the journey across it as one of extreme hardship. [Here follows [sic] references to the different surveys and reports.] Extent and boundaries of the desert.-The Colorado desert extends from the base of Mount San Bernardino to the Gulf of California, and is bounded on the north by a range of rocky ridges reaching from Mount San Bernardino to the junction of the Gila with the Colorado; on the south and west it is bounded by the Sierra of the Peninsula, and on the east by the Colorado River and Gulf of California. The area thus inclosed is a long, nearly level plain, extending in a northwest and southeast direction, from latitude 34° in the north to parallel 32° in the south. Its greatest length in the above direction (from the base of Bernardino Pass to the gulf) is 170 miles; or measuring from base of the pass to the mouth of the Gila is 140 miles. Its greatest width is about 70 miles. * * * This plain narrows as it extends back from the Colorado River. * * * These measurements are approximate, and give for the whole area about 6,000 square miles. * * * Respectfully, sir, your obedient servant, J. J. Abert, Colonel, Corps of Engineers. Hon. John B. Floyd, Secretary of War. |
