Meaning: This quote refers to the exploration of the Big Horn River, a significant waterway in the western United States. The river originates in the Wind River Mountains in Wyoming and flows through Montana before joining the Yellowstone River. The exploration mentioned in the quote was conducted by William Ashley, a prominent businessman and fur trader in the early 19th century.

William Ashley was a key figure in the expansion of the fur trade in the American West. In the early 1820s, he organized a group of trappers and explorers known as "Ashley's Hundred" to venture into the Rocky Mountains in search of valuable furs. As part of his business ventures, Ashley recognized the importance of understanding the geography and waterways of the region, which led to the exploration of the Big Horn River.

The Wind River Mountains, where the Big Horn River originates, are known for their rugged terrain and breathtaking natural beauty. The river itself is characterized by its meandering path through vast plains and canyons, offering both challenges and opportunities for those seeking to navigate its waters.

Ashley's decision to have the Big Horn River explored was likely driven by the potential for fur trapping and trade along its banks. Understanding the river's course and the surrounding landscape would have been crucial for establishing trading outposts and transportation routes in the region.

The exploration of the Big Horn River would have involved a combination of surveying, mapping, and firsthand observation of the natural features and potential obstacles along its course. This endeavor would have required a skilled team of explorers and navigators, as well as knowledge of Indigenous peoples who inhabited the area and their relationships with the river.

The significance of this exploration extends beyond the immediate commercial interests of the fur trade. By mapping and documenting the Big Horn River, Ashley and his team contributed to the broader understanding of the geography and natural resources of the American West. Their efforts added to the body of knowledge that would eventually facilitate the westward expansion of the United States and the exploration of the continent.

The exploration of the Big Horn River by William Ashley exemplifies the spirit of adventure, discovery, and enterprise that characterized the early exploration and settlement of the American West. It highlights the interconnectedness of commerce, geography, and exploration during a pivotal period in the history of the United States.

In conclusion, the quote "I had the Big Horn river explored from Wind River mountain to my place of embarkation. by William Ashley Businessman" reflects the proactive and enterprising spirit of early explorers and businessmen in the American West. Ashley's efforts to understand and harness the natural resources of the region contributed to the broader narrative of westward expansion and exploration in the 19th century. His exploration of the Big Horn River represents a significant chapter in the history of the American frontier and the ongoing quest for knowledge and opportunity in the vast and untamed landscapes of the West.