The Crusade of the Excelsior
1887
The Crusade of the Excelsior, published in 1887 by Bret Harte, is a novel set during the California Gold Rush. It follows a diverse group of passengers aboard the barque Excelsior as they journey from the East Coast to San Francisco. The story explores themes of adventure, social interaction, and personal discovery, particularly through the experiences of characters like the dissatisfied Banks and the spirited Miss Keene. The novel captures the dynamics of their relationships and the uncertainties of their voyage, reflecting the social life and customs of the time.












