Senator Seward sails for Europe on a mission to "recruit his health" and study "Old World" institutions
Senator William Henry Seward left New York City bound for Southampton aboard the steamer Ariel on a fact-finding trip and holiday in Europe and the Holy Land. His steamer was escorted out sea by vessels hired by the local Republican Party and in his farewell speech to his admiring New Yorkers hinted at the future when he told them that he would learn things on his travels that would enable him better to serve his country. His family did not travel with him. Seward did not win the presidencial nomination in 1860 but did serve as Secretary of State under Lincoln and Johnson. (By John Osborne)
Source Citation
"Sailing of Senator Seward for Europe," New York Times, May 9, 1859, p. 1: 5-6.