1839
May.—Fifth and concluding volume of the Ornithological Biography is published at Edinburgh. A Synopsis of the Birds of North America, which immediately follows, brings his European life and labors to a close.
Late summer.—Returns with his family to New York, and settles at 86 White Street. Victor, who preceded his father to America, is married to Mary Eliza Bachman.
Projects at once a small or "miniature" edition of his Ornithology, and begins work on the Quadrupeds. Collaboration of Bachman in this project is later secured.
1840-1844
First octavo edition of The Birds of America is published at Philadelphia, in seven volumes, with lithographic, colored plates and meets with unprecedented success; issued to subscribers in 100 parts, of five plates each with text, at one dollar a part.
1840
June.—Begins a correspondence with young Spencer F. Baird, which leads to an intimate friendship of great mutual benefit, Baird discovering new birds and sending him many specimens.
1841
Purchases land on the Hudson, in Carmansville, at the present 157th Street, and begins to build a house.