Origin of the Gulf Stream and Circulation of Waters in the Gulf of Mexico, with Special Reference to the Effect on Jetty Construction

Abstract

The origin of the Gulf Stream and the circulation in the Gulf of Mexico have never been satisfactorily settled. Many theories have been advanced from time to time, but none as yet have been established upon acceptable proof. The commonly received theory of the present day, that these currents flow in from the South Atlantic, pass the north shore of Yucatan, follow the coast line of Mexico and Texas in a north-northeasterly direction, and finally escape through the Straits of Florida, appears to be plainly contradicted by evidence gathered from the various surveys of the past, together with recent discoveries in connection with the several deep-water projects along the coast of Texas.