Last winter in the United States : $b being table talk collected during a tour through the late Southern Confederation, the Far West, the Rocky Mountains, &c.

"Last Winter in the United States: Being Table Talk Collected During a Tour" by F. Barham Zincke is a collection of travel observations likely written in the late 19th century. The book reflects the author's experiences and thoughts gathered during a winter journey across various regions of the United States, including the South and the Rocky Mountains. Zincke, a vicar and chaplain, provides insights into American society, culture, and the unique characteristics he observes during his travels, with a particular focus on the people rather than the landscape. At the start of the work, the author discusses the advantages of traveling to America in winter, suggesting that the season offers a chance to see a more settled and available population, as well as some practical benefits of sea travel during that time. He describes his voyage to America, detailing his fellow passengers, including Germans and Americans, and their varied opinions on societal issues. Zincke notes the behavior during a Divine Service held on board and expresses curiosity about American social dynamics, establishing a foundation for the exploration of broader societal themes that will unfold throughout his travels.