On the west side of the ancient crater, at the base of a vast craggy pinnacle of rocks, (a portion of the ancient rim of the crater) is still an open abyss, whence issue constantly volumes of a strongly sulphurous smoke. That there is also heat there is evident from the immense depression of the snow about this place—depressed not less than a thousand feet below the snows which fill to the brim other portions of the ancient crater.
As I have already stated, we found our barometers useless in these vast heights, and were reduced to the use of the thermometer alone. By this we learned the boiling point of water at four several stations, as follows: At the camp, the summit of the Cascade Range, it stood in boiling water at 204° Fah. At the upper verge of the forest, it indicated 195½°. At the highest reach of all apparent vegetation, 192°; and finally at the summit, where, after the most persevering and determined efforts, (on account of the violence of the wind) we at length, by means of a spirit lamp, changed a portion of snow to a cup of boiling water, the mercury stood firm in the cup at 180°! These several results being changed to feet of elevation, according to the rule universally approved in such cases, indicate heights as follows, viz: At the summit of the Cascade Range, and foot of Mt. Hood proper, 4,400 feet; at the limit of forest trees, about 9,000 feet; at the highest limit of vegetation, 11,000 feet; at the summit of the mountain, 17,600 feet.
We earnestly hope that these results may be hereafter tested by the barometer; and by triangulation. Until then, we must adopt the estimate here made, as the height of that sublime peak, and accord to Mount Hood the distinction of being the highest land in the United States, if not the highest upon the North American continent.
Regular Meeting, September 17th, 1866.
Mr. Stearns in the chair.
Ten members present.
Messrs. B. P. Avery, James Spiers, and B. R. Norton were elected Resident Members.
Donations to the Library: Proceedings of the Mannheim Academy, from Dr. Behr.
The following paper was presented by Dr. J. G. Cooper: