September 11 - First Ocean Current Charts Created (1785)

Today in 1785
the first Gulf Stream
charts were created.

At sea off Massachusetts, oceanography sleuth Benjamin Franklin, nearly 80 years old, during his last voyage from Europe to the United States, conducts temperature and vegetation studies on the Gulf Stream.

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Background Information

Beginning when Benjamin Franklin was the colonial Deputy Postmaster, he tried to explain why mail was slower when coming from Europe than going the other way. Franklin's study produced a wealth of information on the physical and biological properties of the Gulf Stream, including its first charting, which was one of the first charts of any of the world's ocean currents.

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Educational Adventure

How do modern day ships use the Gulf Stream to their benefit?

Using the websites below, research what causes the Gulf Stream.

Click here to download and print a Daily Escapades™ form for this date.

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Further Explorations

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration — This website provides historical facts about the coast and geodetic survey.

Dive and Discover — This website is an excellent resource for the history of the Gulf Stream and ocean currents. It also includes additional information for educators. A must-see website!

Gulf Stream Encyclopedia Entry — This websites provides details about the Gulf Stream and how it works.