The Wilkes Expedition, officially known as the United States Exploring Expedition, embarked from Hampton Roads in August 1838 under the command of Lieutenant Charles Wilkes. This ambitious mission was designed to explore the Pacific Ocean, with particular emphasis on the coastal regions of North America, including the intricate waterways of Puget Sound, and to venture further south to the uncharted territories of Antarctica. The expedition included five ships—the USS Vincennes, the USS Peacock, the USS Porpoise, the USS Flying Fish, and the supply ship USS Relief—as well as a complement of around 346 officers and men, scientists, and artists. Wilkes’s crew was tasked with charting the coastline, conducting hydrographic surveys, and gathering extensive information on the marine life, geology, and the indigenous populations encountered along the way.During the two-year voyage, the expedition made significant contributions to knowledge about the Pacific Northwest, particularly the Puget Sound, which was previously poorly mapped. The exploration of Antarctica was groundbreaking, leading to the first thorough surveys of its coastline and the documentation of its harsh conditions. The expedition’s scientific endeavors did not only encompass geological and geographical observations; they also included the collection of biological specimens and ethnographic data on native cultures.Upon return, Wilkes published the results of the expedition, which included detailed maps, illustrations, and scientific findings that would serve as an important resource for future explorers and scholars. The expedition underscored the growing interest in the Pacific region and contributed to America's aspirations of manifest destiny, thus paving the way for further settlement and exploration of the West. The Wilkes Expedition remains a noteworthy chapter in the annals of American exploration, revealing the complexities of navigation, scientific inquiry, and interactions with indigenous peoples during this transformative era.