My immediate impression in meeting the father, even in his old age, was of immense mental and moral strength, resolution, and fortitude.

These qualities he bequeathed to his children, and it was a fine inheritance.

Major Powell, therefore, had his ancestry largely to thank for the intellect and the courage with which he approached this difficult problem.
Funds for the proposed expedition were furnished by the State Institutions of Illinois and the Chicago Academy of Science; none by the general Government, so that this was in no way a Government matter, except that Congress passed a joint-resolution authorising him to draw rations for twelve men from western army posts.

Early in the spring of 1869, after returning from the rambles along Green River of the previous winter, Powell went to Chicago and engaged a competent builder to construct four strong boats after his suggestions.

Three of these were of oak, twenty-one feet long, and one of light pine, sixteen feet long, the latter intended as an advance boat, to be quickly handled in the face of sudden danger.