The Tonquin, a vessel owned by John Jacob Astor, embarked on a pivotal journey in pursuit of new opportunities in the fur trade. Setting sail from New York Harbor, the ship carried 33 individuals, handpicked employees of Astor's newly founded Pacific Fur Company, established to dominate the fur market along the west coast of North America. Astor, realizing the lucrative potential of the Pacific fur trade, saw this venture as a way to expand his business empire and capitalize on the growing demand for beaver pelts, which were highly valued in Europe and America.

As the Tonquin journeyed across the Atlantic and eventually around Cape Horn to the Pacific, the crew faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions and unfamiliar territories. Upon reaching the Pacific Northwest, they aimed to establish a trading post at the mouth of the Columbia River. This location was strategically chosen due to its proximity to rich fur-bearing territories and its potential to serve as a pivotal trading hub in the region.

Despite the optimism surrounding this venture, the voyage and subsequent operations encountered significant adversity, including interactions with local Indigenous tribes and competition from British fur traders. The Tonquin's mission, while ambitious, reflected the broader trends of American expansionism and economic aspirations during this era. The outcome of Astor's investment would have lasting implications for the United States' presence in the Pacific Northwest, contributing to the larger narrative of westward expansion and international fur trading dynamics.