Reflections from Captain Grant Children's Activity

Instructons: Watch the video titled "Reflections From Captain Grant" on our YouTube page and complete the following activities.

1. During the video, Ulysses S. Grant talks of traveling to several places in the two years that he was stationed on the west coast.

On the blank map below, trace Ulysses S. Grant's travels. Find the following places and label them on the lines provided.

• New York City (Governors Island)
• Isthmus of Panama
• San Francisco
• Columbia Barracks (Fort Vancouver)
• Fort Humboldt
• White Haven (St. Louis Missouri)

Fort Vancouver (Columbia Barracks) circa 1859

Library of Congress

2. In the video Ulysses S. Grant talked about his time at Columbia Barracks (Fort Vancouver).

What were some of the positive experiences Ulysses S. Grant had at Columbia Barracks (Fort Vancouver) ?

Despite these positive experiences, what was a big preoccupation in Grant's mind that "distracted" him when he was stationed there?

Ulysses mentioned that his army pay wasn't enough to support his family, what other business ventures did Grant try during his stay in Columbia Barracks (Fort Vancouver)?

Take a look at the picture of Fort Vancouver. What do you like or dislike about the fort?

U.S. Grant circa 1849

3. On April 11, 1854, Ulysses S. Grant received his official notification that he was promoted to Captain. He accepted this new rank but decided to end his army career the same day.

In the video, what reasons does Ulysses give for accepting his new rank?

What reasons does he give for quitting the Army?