William C. Gage
"Chicago to the Sea." Eastern Excursionist
A complete guide to the principal eastern summer resorts, including: Niagara Falls, the White Mountains, Saint Lawrence and Saguenay Rivers, Montreal and Quebec, the New England sea beaches, etc., and how and when to enjoy them.
"Chicago to the Sea: Eastern Excursionist" by William C. Gage is a travel guide written in the late 19th century. The book serves as a comprehensive resource for summer tourists looking to travel from Chicago to various eastern resorts, such as Niagara Falls and the White Mountains. It aims to provide practical travel information, highlighting routes, accommodations, and scenic sights to maximize the enjoyment of the journey. The opening of the guide introduces the topic of summer travel, emphasizing its importance for relaxation and enjoyment amid the pressures of daily work. It describes Chicago as the departure point for east-bound travelers and outlines the attractions awaiting them on their journey, particularly stressing the benefits of the Michigan Central Railroad. The narrative notes the convenience of modern railway travel comforts, such as dining cars and sleeping accommodations, while detailing significant stops along the way, including charming towns and various summer resorts that a traveler might encounter. Overall, the beginning establishes a clear purpose for the guide: to help excursionists enjoy their travel experience to the fullest.